Having a stable internet connection in this day and age is vital for just about everyone. However, if you want a good connection, having a good peripheral device like a cable modem is absolutely necessary. Given the variety of devices in the market today, the question is, which cable modem will prove to be a good investment?
To answer this question, we will be reviewing the Arris CM820A cable modem. Arris is a well-known company based in America. Founded in 1995, the company has a reputation for producing high-quality telecommunication equipment. The reason we have chosen an Arris cable modem for this review is that the company has developed a lot over the years and is now one of the leading names in the market. So let’s find out if the CM820A lives up to its name.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
 |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
ARRIS CM820A Cable Modem DOCSIS 3.0
To help put things into perspective, let’s look at what the device promises, if it’s really worth the investment and if it has some limitations.
PROS
CONS
Main Features
This cable modem is equipped with quite a few features that make it a top-notch unit. These include:
Compatible with IPV4 and IPV6
First of all, let’s take about the internet protocol or IP compatibility. The Cm280a is compatible with both IPV4 and IPV6. The IPV4 is a more commonly used version and has a 32-bit address length. On the other hand, the IPV6 is a more recent protocol and has a 128-bit address length. Although the IPV4 is more common, many are shifting to the IPV6 as it offers better security to users. Since the Cm280a is compatible with both protocols, you will not have a problem surfing the internet as there will be no hold-ups when it comes to shifting from one protocol to another.
8x4 Channel Bonding
Another great feature of this cable modem is that it has 8x4 bonded channels. This means that it offers high-speed internet and has 8 channels, especially for downloading data. This makes the downloading process much easier as there are fewer interruptions, and the task, in general, is completed quicker. In addition to that, it has 4 channels that are designated to just uploading data. This will make the process of sending information much faster and efficient from your end.
DOCSIS 3.0
The DOCSIS 3.0 is an excellent feature to have in any cable modem. Not only does it make your connection faster and stable, but it also makes sure that your connection is secure. The DOCSIS 3.0 will enable you to access the fastest internet speed your service provider has to offer, which is definitely something all of us want. Apart from that, it will protect your connection from any threats and will keep your connection safe from unauthorized access as well.
Pros
Now let’s move on to some of the pros of investing in this model to see if it really fits your needs.
Design
The design of this device is definitely one of its greatest benefits. It is built with high-quality materials that will last you quite some time. On the outside, the device is all black, and it is not bulky either. Therefore, you will have no trouble finding a perfect place to fit it in. The design overall is pretty simplistic and minimalistic. The front of the device has the “Arris” logo in white. There are 5 LED lights on the top right-hand side. These lights display stats like power, link, online status, etc. These LEDs make it easier to determine whether the device is working properly or not.
Easy Setup Process
The setup process of this device is extremely simple. Usually, it is recommended that you contact a professional to help you with the setup. However, with this cable modem, you can easily get it up and started by yourself. All you have to do is plug your device in and then contact your local internet service provider. Then provide them with the MAC address. Once you are registered with the service provider, your internet will be up and running immediately. On average, the entire process will take you around 10-15 minutes, but not more than that.
Save Up on Rental Cost
Buying your own device will definitely be more beneficial in the long run, especially a device like the Arris Cm280a that comes at a very affordable price range. Internet service providers are always prone to increase their rates with time. This means renting a cable modem will end up costing you more than your own device. Apart from that, rented devices are often not of good quality. However, investing in the Cm280a will rid you of all such worries. It will be better for your budget as you will not have to pay for the device every month, and quality will not be an issue either.
High-Speed Internet Connection
Another perk of opting for this model is that you get a high-speed internet connection. Therefore, you can enjoy surfing the internet, streaming, gaming, and other tasks without any interruptions or hitches. The DOCSIS 3.0 just makes the deal sweeter as the connection is more stable and secure. In addition to that, you can also get the best of what your service provider has to offer as the DOCSIS 3.0 allows you access to higher internet speeds.
Cons
Although this cable modem is well built and has a lot of great features, there are a few downsides that must be discussed, as well.
Does Not Provide Wireless Connectivity
As we discussed earlier, the device has a variety of features. However, if we were to point out something that was missing, it would be the option of a Wi-Fi connection. This cable modem only supports connections via Ethernet ports, and there are no phone jacks included in the design. If you want a device for Wi-Fi, you will most probably have to invest in a separate Wi-Fi router.
Warranty
There is no warranty offered for this device by the manufacturer themselves. However, there is a 1-year warranty offered by third parties. Therefore, if your device encounters any issues or troubles, the device will not be directly dealt with by the manufacturers. It will go to the third party for repairs or replacement, which may not be the best-case scenario for some people.
Connectivity Issues
This modem works great for the vast majority of users. However, there have been some users that have complained about having connectivity issues with this cable modem. Complaints include reports of random disconnections as well as the modem not working altogether.
What is the Arris Cm820a Best For?
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to this device. It is a good cable modem that can be used by anyone; however, given its specifications, it is more suited to two particular groups. Let’s take a look at who they are.
Homes
The Arris Cm280a is an excellent device for home use. It offers great connectivity and high internet speeds. This is great as there is a possibility of many people making use of the internet at home. In addition to that, it will work well even if you are gaming or streaming online. You can even enjoy your day to day internet use without having to worry about your connection lagging. Activities that can be enjoyed include surfing the internet or even online shopping. This makes it even more suitable for use in homes.
Small Businesses
The other group best suited for this cable modem is small businesses. Although start-ups and small businesses do not require their internet connection to cover a larger area, they still need high-speed internet. Plus, they could also use a good upload or upstream speed, which is provided by the Arris Cm280a.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying?
There are a few things that you will need to keep in mind before purchasing this cable modem. It is better to be careful of these minor details before making the purchase as you will not face certain issues afterward. Let’s take a quick look at what to be careful of before buying this model.
Internet Service Compatibility
This is one thing that you should always check before buying any cable modem. Even if the package of the device says that it is compatible with most mainstream internet service providers, always be sure to check if it is compatible with yours specifically. In case the device is not compatible with your service provider, you will end up with a device that will be of no use to you. So you will either have to change your internet service provider altogether or find a device that is compatible with your network service.
Refurbished Models
Do not settle for refurbished models of the cable modem. Always make sure that you are buying an original product from a credible source. The reason most users encounter connectivity issues is that they use refurbished models. These will not work as well as new models as they have been used in the past. Sometimes, these refurbished models have also been stolen. So whenever you make a purchase, make sure that it is from a credible source.
Higher Internet Speeds
DOCSIS 3.0 does offer higher internet speeds. However, you must keep in mind that you can only make use of these internet speeds if they are provided to you by your service providers. If there are no plans that cater to higher speeds, then you will not be able to use your cable modem to its full potential. For example, if the maximum download speed your plan has to offer is 175 Mbps, your cable modem will provide you with a connection of 175 Mbps. You will not be able to enjoy a 300 Mbps downloading speed.
Internet Charges Still Apply
Investing in your own device will rid you of the pesky rent that you have to pay every month for the company device. However, this does not mean that you do not owe your internet service provider anything. You will still have to pay them for your selected internet plan.
Conclusion
All in all, the Arris Cm280a is a well-rounded option for anyone looking for a good cable modem. Yes, it does not offer a Wi-Fi connection, but it has a great array of features that make up for it. The design of the device is good. It is lightweight yet sturdy. The setup process is easy, too, so you will face no worries there as well. All you have to do is be careful of the few pointers we have detailed in the review. Other than that, this model should perform well and cause you no troubles.
