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Arris Routers
Owning your modem with Optimum can save you a ton of money in the long term since they charge anywhere from $4.95/month to $9.95/month, just to use their leased modem. For most Optimum modem models, you could buy one and it will have paid for itself within less than 3 years. We feel that by that logic, there’s really no reason you should still be renting a modem.
Some people have mentioned to our support representatives that they don’t feel comfortable setting up their modem on their own as they don’t consider themselves to be very technically savvy. Luckily, in recent years companies have made doing a self-installation for your new cable modem much easier. This allows you to do the activation from home, and in most cases without calling out a technician to help you. We know that starting up new service or pulling the plug on renting your modem and trading it for a non-rental version can be a plunge, so we wanted to make sure you have all the information you need to get started!
How to Activate Your Modem with Optimum Cable
Activating your modem with Optimum is super quick and easy. You’ll need to set aside around 30 minutes for most activations to ensure you’re not feeling rushed.
- Plug in your modem to the power supply cable, then plug the power supply cable into the wall.
- Plug the coaxial cable into the wall, and then screw the other end into the coaxial port on the back of the modem.
- Wait 5 minutes for your modem to fully boot up. If your modem has built-in wireless, you’ll know your device is fully powered on once the wireless lights come on.
- Connect an ethernet cable into the back of your modem and then plug in the other end into your computer.
- Open a web browser (such as Chrome, Firefox or Safari) and type install.optimum.com into the URL web address bar at the top of the screen, then hit enter.
- To activate your modem you’ll need your 13-digit account number to register online, which you can find on your Optimum bill, a receipt from the Optimum store as well as several other places.
- Follow the on-screen steps to set up and activate your new modem.
- After set up is complete, you can now disconnect the ethernet cable from your computer or laptop and connect it into a wireless router if you’re using one for your wireless service.
Congratulations on activating your cable modem with Optimum service!
Arris TM1602A: High-Speed DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem with Advanced VoIP Support
In stock
- High-Speed Performance: The Arris TM1602A DOCSIS 3.0 Telephony Cable Modem offers ultra-high-speed data access up to 640 Mbps, ensuring fast and reliable internet connectivity.
- VoIP Support: Features two lines of primary line Voice over IP (VoIP), perfect for users with landline telephones, security systems, or other phone-dependent devices.
- Advanced Features: Loaded with features like 16x4 channel bonding, DOCSIS 3.0 technology compatibility, user-friendly setup interface, and advanced security features for enhanced network protection.
- Broad Compatibility: This modem is compatible with major cable internet service providers such as Optimum Cable, Cable One, Charter, Comcast Xfinity, Cox, and Charter Spectrum.
Arris TM822A Touchstone Telephony Cable Modem
In stock
- DOCSIS 3.0 Telephone Cable Modem Only - WiFi Router Sold Separately
- Compatible with Optimum Cable & Other Major US Cable Providers
- 8x4 Channel Bonding Supports Internet Download Speeds Up to 343 Mbps
- 2 Phone Ports + 1 Ethernet Port
- NOT COMPATIBLE with Xfinity by Comcast & Time Warner Cable / Spectrum
Arris TM3402 32×8/2×2 DOCSIS 3.1 Telephony Cable Modem
In stock
- High-Speed Performance: The Arris TM3402 is built with a 32x8/2x2 DOCSIS 3.1 technology, providing high-speed internet capabilities, suitable for high-demand online activities like 4K streaming, gaming, and more.
- Telephony Features: This cable modem includes two telephone ports for Voice over IP (VoIP) capabilities. This makes it a good option for those who also require digital telephone service.
- Future-Ready: Its DOCSIS 3.1 technology means it is future-ready, capable of supporting next-gen broadband speeds and services as they become available. This can provide longevity in your modem investment.
- Backward Compatibility: It maintains backward compatibility with DOCSIS 3.0, ensuring a wide range of service compatibility. This allows you to connect to your existing internet service provider's network while also being ready for faster speeds as they roll out.
Arris TM804G DOCSIS 3.0 Phone Cable Modem
In stock
- Compatible with Optimum, Mediacom, CableONE & Major US Cable Providers
- Supports Internet Download Speeds up to 300 Mbps
- DOCSIS 3.0 Modem with Telephone - Wireless Router Sold Separately
- 2 Carrier Grade VoIP Phone Ports with G.168 Echo Cancellation
- 8x4 Channel bonding with 4 Ethernet Ports & Battery Backup Capability
How to Reset Your Optimum Modem
Resetting your Optimum modem is an important skill to know since it’s used in so many situations. If you are doing any troubleshooting with your provider, forgot your WiFi password (if WiFi enabled) or you’re just trying to clear up an issue with your network, knowing how to reset your Optimum modem is an ideal first step. Here’s our easy guide on how to do it in less than 10 minutes:
- Plug in your modem to the power supply, then plug the power supply into the wall outlet.
- locate the reset button on the back of your modem where all the ports are.
- Press and hold down the reset button for 30 seconds with a paperclip or toothpick.
- After 30 seconds, release the reset button, then wait 5 minutes for your modem to power cycle and reset.
How to Log Into Your Optimum Modem
Logging into your Optimum cable modem allows you to adjust the settings, control WiFi credentials (if your modem is wireless-enabled) and much more. Knowing how to do this is important for some troubleshooting steps, enabling bridge mode, and changing your WiFi password (if applicable) among other important features.
For most users, this is something that you really only mess with occasionally, but is still important to know how to do. Here’s our quick, easy guide on logging into your Optimum modem:
- Connect your modem to the power supply and then plug the power supply into the outlet. Allow 5 minutes for your modem to fully boot up.
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable into the back of your Optimum modem, and the other end into your computer.
- If your modem has built-in WiFi, you can connect to the wireless network instead, if that’s easier. Most Optimum modems do not have WiFi built-in though, and Ethernet is much more reliable.
- Open a web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, or Safari (not Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer).
- Type the modem’s IP address into the URL / Address bar at the top of your browser window.
- Most Optimum compatible modems use 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.100.1 as their IP address, but if not it will be listed somewhere on the sticker on the bottom of your modem.
- Once you’ve typed in the IP address, press enter and it should load a page with either the manufacturer logo of the company that makes your modem, OR it will have an Optimum logo. At this point, most models will request a username and password to enter the settings panel. Most of the time, the credentials are as shown below, but sometimes they are listed on the modem’s sticker near the IP address.
- username: admin
- password: password
- Enter your login credentials then click submit.
How to Cancel Optimum Cable Internet Service
You can either call the customer service line or go online and find the account management section of the website to cancel your Optimum cable internet service. You might be asked for the reason for the cancellation as well as any other details required to complete the cancellation. Additionally, based on the conditions of your service agreement, you might be required to pay an early termination fee. Before terminating your service, it’s a good idea to review your agreement’s terms and any potential fees.
Comparing Optimum Internet Service Packages
As an Optimum customer, you have the freedom to use your own modem. Using your own modem not only saves on rental costs, but also allows you to choose a device that best fits your specific needs. We have compiled a list of modems that are compatible with Optimum’s services. Each modem has been paired with an internet package based on its maximum potential download speed. This easy-to-read table will help guide you in choosing the best modem for your Optimum internet package, based on factors such as download speed, telephone compatibility, and customer ratings. Please note, none of these modems have built-in WiFi, so if you need WiFi, you’ll need to purchase a separate wireless router. Explore the options below and select the modem that’s right for you.
| Internet Package | Speed | Features | Best Compatible Modem | Download Speed* | Telephone | Wifi | DOCSIS | Channels | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optimum 100 | Up to 100 Mbps | Best for light internet use | Arris TM822A | 343 Mbps | Yes | No | 3.0 | 8×4 | 4.82/5 (56 reviews) |
| Optimum 200 | Up to 200 Mbps | Suitable for moderate use | Arris TM822A | 343 Mbps | Yes | No | 3.0 | 8×4 | 4.82/5 (56 reviews) |
| Optimum 300 | Up to 300 Mbps | Ideal for multiple devices | Arris TM1602A | 640 Mbps | Yes | No | 3.0 | 16×4 | 4.98/5 (48 reviews) |
| Optimum 400 | Up to 400 Mbps | For heavy usage and gaming | Arris TM1602A | 640 Mbps | Yes | No | 3.0 | 16×4 | 4.98/5 (48 reviews) |
| Optimum 500 | Up to 500 Mbps | For multi-device streaming | Arris TM1602A | 640 Mbps | Yes | No | 3.0 | 16×4 | 4.98/5 (48 reviews) |
| Optimum 1 Gig | Up to 940 Mbps | For high-speed requirements | Arris TM3402 | 2.5 Gbps | Yes | No | 3.1 | 32×8 | No rating |
Please note:
- The download speed in the table refers to the max speeds the modem technology can accommodate. Actual speeds may vary based on configuration and other factors.
- None of these modems have built-in WiFi. If you need WiFi, you’ll need to purchase a separate wireless router.
- Telephone indicates whether the modem supports Optimum’s Voice service.
- The Customer Rating is based on customer reviews.
For the most accurate information, it’s always a good idea to check Optimum’s official website or contact their customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can owning my own modem with Optimum save me money? Yes, renting a modem from Optimum can cost between $4.95/month to $9.95/month. Buying your own modem can pay for itself within less than 3 years.
- How can I activate my modem with Optimum Cable? You can activate your modem by following the detailed steps in the article above. They outline the step-by-step process for activating your Optimum Cable modem.
- What if I’m not tech-savvy, can I still set up the modem on my own? Yes, modem self-installation has been made simpler by companies in recent years, and Optimum Cable is no exception. Just follow the step-by-step instructions provided and you should be able to set it up without the need for a technician.
- How can I reset my Optimum modem? You can reset your Optimum modem by following the steps in the article above. It’s a simple process that requires a paperclip or toothpick.
- How can I log into my Optimum modem? You can log into your Optimum modem by following the instructions in the article above. Logging in allows you to adjust settings, control WiFi credentials, and more.
- How can I cancel my Optimum Cable Internet Service? You can cancel your service either by calling the customer service line or through the account management section on the Optimum website. Note that you may need to pay an early termination fee depending on the terms of your service agreement.
- Is the Arris TM1602A High Speed Gateway Telephony Modem DOCSIS 3.0 compatible with Optimum Cable? Yes, the Arris TM1602A High Speed Gateway Telephony Modem DOCSIS 3.0 is compatible with Optimum Cable service. You can follow the same steps for setting up and activating this modem.
- Can I use my modem’s built-in wireless during setup? If your modem has built-in wireless, you can use it during the setup process. However, an Ethernet connection is often more reliable for the initial setup.
Did we answer all your questions about the How to Self-Install & Setup a Modem with Optimum Cable? Let us know in the comments, or leave your own questions for our technicians to answer!
Where do I find the Network security Key on my ARRIS Model TM1602A?
Hi Marietta,
This model does not have built-in WiFi, so there is no network security key for this device. If you’re using a wireless router alongside it, you can use the network security key or pre-shared key printed on that device. Otherwise, you’ll need to connect with the ethernet cable.
Hope that helps!
ModemGuides Support