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Getting your own best router for Cox can provide many benefits including faster internet speeds, improved WiFi coverage and saving money on rental fees.
If you’re already set up on the Cox fiber optic network, finding the perfect Cox compatible router can be a challenge given the vast array of options.
Luckily, we’re here to help!
Although all routers are technically compatible with Cox, not all routers can handle the super-fast internet speeds that Cox internet plans provide.
Many routers also lack sufficient security features and coverage within the home.
Therefore, you should focus your search on routers that will maximize internet speed, coverage and offer advanced security features.
Our top choice for the best router for Cox is the Archer AX73 as it ensures that you have the best internet performance by delivering speeds of up to 5400 Mbps. This allows you and other users to play games and stream without experiencing any buffering, especially when all the devices are connected to the network at the same time.
Another great option is the Netgear RAX43. It comes with WiFi 6 technology and delivers speeds of...
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is for those looking for a budget-friendly router that allows them to experience the future of speed and performance. It comes with super-fast speeds of up to 1800 Mbps and a powerful CPU to ensure that you have the ultimate streaming and gaming experience when all your devices are connected. It also has the MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies for simultaneous streaming.
Other features to prioritize include easy setup and advanced technological features such as OFDMA and MU-MIMO which ensure multiple users can benefit from the fast internet simultaneously.
Fiber optic networks such as Cox are around 20 times faster than cable internet providers.
There is also no need for a modem as the ONT box plays the modem role but uses infrared pulses and fiber wiring to communicate with the ISP and generate fast internet speeds.
Best Router For Cox (2024)
- Best Overall: TP-Link Archer AX73
- High Performance: Netgear Nighthawk RAX43
- Budget Friendly: TP-Link Archer AX21
- For Gaming: Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000
- Mesh WiFi: Nest WiFi Router
- Modem Router Combo: Motorola MG7700
- Best Security & Parental Controls: Gryphon AC3000
Top 7 Cox Compatible Routers
Technically all routers are compatible with Cox internet services. However, many router options are insufficient because they can’t maximize the internet speeds on your Cox package, nor can they cater for your home internet needs.
Maximizing the benefits of a Cox internet plan by finding the best Cox compatible router is crucial to ensure your investment in fiber optic internet is not wasted.
In this section, we have tested and reviewed the 7 best options currently available in the market to help guide you in your purchase, discussing the design, performance, target market, pros, cons, and specifications.
1. TP-Link Archer AX73 (Editor’s Choice)
If you are looking for the best router for Cox, you can’t do better than the TP-Link Archer AX73 WiFi router.
Design
The TP-Link Archer AX73 comes with a high internet speed of up to 5400 Mbps to ensure that you have the best internet performance.
This enables you and other users to game and stream without experiencing any buffering especially when all the devices are connected to the network at the same time.
To ensure that you get full internet coverage in your home, the Archer AX73 comes with enhanced technologies like high-gain antennas, 4T4R, and beamforming as they focus the signal strength on all connected devices.
Performance
You can easily connect multiple devices to the Archer AX73 as it uses both MU-MIMO and OFDMA technologies, which increases the capacity so that the devices can use the network simultaneously and reduces congestion increasing the average throughput.
The MU-MIMO allows for the simultaneous transfer of data from the router to lots of devices using several streams while the OFDMA allows several devices to use one transmission stream to maximize efficiency.
To ensure that your home network is protected from potential threats and attacks, the Archer AX73 comes with a network scanner.
If you want to have top performance and fast connections on some of the devices you can direct enough bandwidth to them using the Quality of Service.
Parental controls allow you to prevent your children from accessing inappropriate content and manage their time online because you can control what they are watching or downloading. The USB port allows for easy private cloud storage and media sharing.
The improved vented areas in the router allow it to produce less heat. There are additional features that come with this router including reports of the data usage, HomeShield Pro Paid services, and IoT Device Identification.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link Archer AX73 is suitable for individuals with several devices and large homes that require enough internet speed for streaming, gaming, and downloading at the same time.
Specs
- Speed: Up to 5400Mbps
- Range: Extensive coverage
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11g, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11ax, 802.11n
- Ports: 5 Ethernet ports
Pros
- It is easy to set up.
- Connects to several devices at the same time.
- Wider WiFi coverage and range.
- Has parental controls.
- Smart and fast roaming services.
Cons
- Issues with the 2.4 GHz band.
- Firmware needs to be updated to get faster speeds.
2. Netgear Nighthawk RAX43 (High Performance)
Design
The Netgear RAX43 features WiFi 6 technology and comes with upgrades such as more ports, and a powerful processor compared to the previous model.
The Nighthawk AX4200 allows you to have simultaneous streaming at a fast speed meaning you will be able to enjoy uninterrupted video calls, gaming, and movies on your various devices at the same time.
The 5 WiFi streams offer reliability and high performance for up to 25 devices and 2000 sq. ft. The 4.2 Gbps internet speed enables you to stream, download, and transfer up to 3.5 times faster than before.
Performance
The Nighthawk AX4200 is designed to work with the latest 1G internet plans and is compatible with most internet service providers including fiber, satellite, and cable.
You can use the WAN port to connect your devices to the internet using the Ethernet cable.
The 5 LAN ports and 1 WAN port enable you to pair with Cox 1000 Mbps speed plans. Therefore, you can expect enough wired, upload, and download speeds that allow you to download and upload large files in just a few seconds.
Additionally, you can generate personal cloud storage which you can access from anywhere and share a storage drive with any device that is connected to the network using the USB port.
Netgear Armor provides protection for your home network and all connected devices from internet threats and security issues.
Smart parental controls ensure that your children have a safe online experience and are protected from watching inappropriate content.
The Nighthawk App allows you to set up your router easily and manage the different features such as internet pausing, remote access to your network, and internet speed testing.
Netgear also has other basic features for your network’s security such as VPN-passthrough and WPA3 to ensure that your databases and passwords are safe.
You can access features such as malicious website blocking and identification as well as scanning if you pay an annual subscription.
Who It’s For
The Nighthawk AX4200 is recommended for individuals who are looking for a high-performing router that can provide fast internet speed to about 25 devices.
Specs
- Speed: 2 Gbps.
- Range: Up to 2000 sq. ft and 25 devices
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax, 802.11a/d/g/n/ac,
- Ports: 5 Ethernet ports, 1 USB port.
Pros
- Allows for simultaneous streaming.
- Provides essential internet security.
- Has smart parental controls.
- Faster streaming.
- High-performance internet.
- Strong signal.
Cons
- A bit challenging when it comes to setting it up.
3. TP-Link Archer AX21 (Budget Friendly)
Design
The TP-Link Archer AX21 allows you to experience the future of speed and performance.
It comes with super-fast speeds of up to 1800 Mbps and a powerful CPU to ensure that you have the ultimate streaming and gaming experience when all your devices are connected.
The Archer AX21 allows you to use several devices at the same time and not experience slow internet because it comes with the revolutionary OFDMA and MU-MIMO
Performance
The Archer AX21 comes with an intuitive Tether app that allows you to easily set up the router using the powerful web interface.
The app also allows you to manage your internet usage, test the internet speed, and manage the router’s settings using your phone.
The Archer AX21 comes with beamforming technology and four antennas that work together to ensure that you get more reliable, better, and stronger internet coverage.
This also improves your WiFi and concentrates the signal to all your devices.
Your network is kept safe, and your devices are protected from internet attacks with the advanced latest WPA3 security feature. The WPA3 encryption is the greatest and latest security feature that keeps your data safe.
The Archer AX21 also features parental controls and QoS. The QoS chooses devices that need to be prioritized in the network to ensure they get faster speeds.
Parental controls are useful especially for children as they enable you to restrict inappropriate online content for their devices.
The router is compatible with internet service providers, WiFi standards, and all devices.
The Archer AX21 can be used with Alexa which makes setting up your smart home easy. You will have faster speeds, greater capacity, and minimum network congestion with the WiFi 6 technology compared to the previous generation.
Who It’s For
The TP-Link Archer AX21 is suitable for households with limited budgets who want to own a router that is compatible with the Cox network.
Specs
- Speed: 8 Gbps
- Range: long-range coverage
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 11n, 802.11b 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11g
- Ports: 5
Pros
- Great coverage.
- User-friendly app.
- Easy to set up and manage.
- Easy to customize.
- Super quick internet speeds.
- Great range.
Cons
- The USB performance can be poor.
- The parental controls and QoS are slightly limited.
4. ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 (For Gaming)
Design
The ASUS GT-AX11000 creates a WiFi network for your whole home as it comes with the innovative AiMesh that uses multiple ASUS routers.
The AiMesh technology offers you central control that saves you time and roaming capabilities that are seamless, and it is powerful and flexible.
The three-level game acceleration ensures that you have improved game traffic in every stage by lowering the ping rate and minimizing game latency for a better gaming experience.
Performance
To prevent bandwidth competition between devices connected to the network, the GT-AX11000 enables you to assign one 5 GHz band for your gaming purposes.
It also unlocks 15 channels that are least congested using the dynamic frequency selection.
You can take three steps to do port forwarding with this router. Port forwarding is important, especially for gamers as enables you to join a team with friends.
The three steps involve choosing a game to play, the device for gaming, and finally activating the game.
You get easy control with the gaming center interface which allows you to point and click over every feature easily. You can check the ping times of multiple servers before you play using the Game Radar.
The GT-AX11000 enables you to operate both VPN and ordinary internet connection at the same time to avoid slow game performance.
Who It’s For
The GT-AX11000 is designed to be used for security, gaming, and monitoring purposes as it can connect to multiple devices that need fast and consistent uploading speeds.
Specs
- Speed: 11000Mbps
- Range: Very large homes
- Bands: Tri-Band.
- Wireless Protocol: 11ax, 802.11ac
- Ports: 4 Ethernet ports.
Pros
- You get ultimate performance from the gaming port.
- You get coverage for your entire home.
- Enhanced monitoring and control.
- Your network is protected from threats.
Cons
- It has a slow throughput.
5. Nest WiFi Router (Mesh WiFi)
Design
The Nest WiFi router is a flexible and scalable WiFi system. The Nest devices work together to provide your home with full coverage, reliable and fast internet as well as remove buffering in every room.
The Nest router provides coverage of up to 5400 sq. ft.
Performance
With the Nest router, a single WiFi router is connected to the modem of your internet service provider to create your network.
The point ensures that the internet connection is fast for all the devices by extending the wireless network to every room.
Each Nest WiFi router is fast enough for streaming 4K videos and strong enough to provide an internet connection for up to 100 devices.
The Nest router is compatible with Google WiFi, and it comes with a 15W power adapter and two ethernet ports.
Additionally, every Nest Point can act as a smart speaker with Google Assistant, but you need to be connected to the internet for this to work.
This allows you to use your voice to control the connected devices, manage the WiFi network, and play music.
This router works intelligently behind the scenes to ensure that you always have a fast WiFi connection. Meaning you can move from one room to the other while on a video call without being interrupted.
To ensure that your network is safe and secured and has new features, the Nest router updates itself automatically. The app makes setting up the router easy and it is compatible with most internet service providers.
You can easily share your password, create a guest network, and prioritize devices for faster speeds. The parental controls enable you to manage the online activity of your kids.
Who It’s For
If you are looking for a Mesh network that provides full home coverage, the Nest WiFi router is for you.
Specs
- Speed: 2200 Mbps
- Range: Up to 5400 sq. ft
- Bands: Dual-Band.
- Wireless Protocol: 11ac
- Ports: 2
Pros
- It is easy to set up and manage connected devices.
- You can easily manage your children’s online activities.
- The automatic updates ensure that you have the latest features.
- Faster internet speed for streaming.
Cons
- Takes time to reset the router.
6. Motorola MG7700 (Best Modem Router Combo For Cox)
Design
The Motorola MG7700 comes with four Ethernet ports, firewall security, and a WiFi amplifier to boost power to ensure that all devices including notebooks, smartphones, tablets, and more have access to fast internet.
With this modem router combo, you can save on Cox equipment rental fees and it supports the Cox high-speed internet plans.
The MG7700 provides you with an affordable way of combining both your router and modem, hence saving you some money.
Performance
The Motorola MG7700 features 24*8 channel bonding to ensure that you have a stable internet connection. It supports cable plans of up to 650 Mbps and provides internet speeds of up to 1000 Mbps.
The MG7700 allows you to connect to Mac and Windows computers using the Ethernet ports. The power amplifiers improve the WiFi signals which then ensures that you get better range and speed.
Your router’s performance is improved, and the signal is focused on wireless clients as Anybeam uses the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.
When you buy a router and a modem separately it is more expensive than buying the MG7700.
Additionally, since this router comes as one device, you save a lot of space and the number of outlets and cables is minimized.
Technologies such as MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and power boost contribute to stable connection for all the devices.
Who It’s For
Since the Motorola MG7700 is a modem router combo, it is recommended for individuals who are looking to save on rental fees and need a high-performance internet connection.
Specs
- Speed: Modem speed is 1000 Mbps.
- Range: 80 and 90 ft
- Bands: Dual-Band
- Wireless Protocol: 5 GHz frequency
- Ports: 4 Ethernet ports
Pros
- Easy to set up.
- The speed is reasonable.
- The design is compact and minimal.
- It provides you with a single-user interface.
- Saves space and minimizes the use of power cubes and wires.
- Comes with power boost technology which improves the wireless speeds.
Cons
- The wireless protocols are outdated.
- Installation is tricky.
7. Gryphon AC3000 (Best Security & Parental Controls)
Design
The Gryphon Tower router gives you dependable and secure internet connectivity for all your devices and your entire home.
It comes with features that ensure you have efficient and fast coverage, advanced parental controls, and enhanced security.
Advanced WiFi technology ensures that you get incredible internet speeds and full-home coverage regardless of the number of devices and users connected to the network.
This is because the Gryphon Tower features MU-MIMO and tri-band radios to provide a coverage of up to 3000 sq. ft.
Performance
The Gryphon Tower features great parental controls that make sure children are using the internet safely.
Parental control has active content monitoring, valuable usage insights, individualized time limits, and web and app blocking which enables you to monitor the screen time of your children.
Malware protection and modern ransomware are enhanced security features to ensure that your devices have protection from internet attacks. Additionally, you get protected from scams and hackers with the use of intelligent intrusion.
The Gryphon Connect App enables you to easily manage the various features of your router and set it up.
The router ensures that your busy networks have a secured connection without experiencing any dropped connections, buffering, and speed lags.
Additionally, if you have many devices that are gaming, surfing, or streaming at the same time, you will experience high-speed internet.
Who It’s For
The Gryphon Tower is designed for individuals that have many devices that need a high-speed internet connection and want to protect their children from internet attacks.
Specs
- Speed: 3000 Mbps
- Range: 3000 sq. ft.
- Bands: Tri-band.
- Wireless Protocol: 4 GHz Radio, 802.11bgn, 5 GHz Radio Frequency, Bluetooth
- Ports: 4
Pros
- Great parental controls.
- Setting it up is easy.
- Great hardware.
- Great WiFi coverage.
- Eliminates dead zones in your home.
Cons
- Issues when updating the software.
Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Cox Compatible Routers
WiFi Speed & Wireless Protocol
Although all routers are compatible with Cox internet services, prioritizing routers with fast internet speeds will enable you to maximize the benefits of Cox fiber optic internet.
The Cox internet plan that you choose should provide enough speed for you and your entire family to be engaged with high consumption activities simultaneously.
If you want to improve the efficiency and performance of your internet you can get a higher speed. Therefore, you should check with Cox to see if they can give you the top speed that they offer.
Also, the bands that come with your router will affect its speed. Most Cox routers come with two bands including 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz. Some of the latest models have 6 GHz bands to provide ultra-fast internet speed.
Wireless protocol is another thing to consider as it is responsible for the communication of the router with other devices.
It contains a set of guidelines and rules that ensures the communication is smooth and the devices and router interact well.
The 802.11 is the most common wireless protocol. You can improve the speed and capability of your router by upgrading the protocol. For instance, the 802.11ax protocol connects to many devices hence performing better.
Range & Coverage
The WiFi signal range refers to the area where users can access the internet connection. Mostly, routers for small offices and homes usually have a coverage area of between 2500 to 3000 sq. ft to ensure that you have optimal performance.
The setup and location of your home determine the coverage range of the router that you get.
You can experience reduced coverage and weak signal strength if there are any obstacles such as stairs, doors, or walls obstructing the path between the user and the router.
To ensure that you do not have dead zones you can use extenders to improve the range and improve the WiFi signal if your router’s coverage is weak.
However, with WiFi 6 protocol in the latest models, you can improve the range and remove the need to have an extender in your home.
The latest routes also come with enhancements such as beamforming technology and high-gain antennas to improve the overall performance of the internet.
Mesh WiFi routers use several units spread across your home to remove dead zones and improve the internet range.
Compatibility
It is important that your router is compatible with Cox Internet services to avoid untimely delays, service interruptions, and slow internet speed.
Before buying your router, check with your provider to ensure that it is compatible with the services and the speed package that you want to get.
You can check this by calling Cox or checking their website and asking them to give you a list of routers that are compatible with their services so that you can decide on the router that fits your needs.
Also, the router that you purchase should come with a manual that has a list of service providers that are compatible with it.
Mesh System vs Traditional Routers
Traditional routers transmit data from a central location to both Wi-Fi and Ethernet devices, while mesh networks utilize multiple interconnected boxes (satellites, nodes, mesh routers, or mesh extenders) to establish a Wi-Fi signal within a residence or commercial space.
Mesh networks are particularly useful in situations where a single router fails to adequately reach all areas, resulting in signal dropouts.
Additionally, a traditional router is responsible for dispersing the wireless signal throughout your home. This makes it the simplest and easiest type of device to understand because you only have one box to think about.
Since you do not have much control over where you put the router, it means that you will experience dead spots in some parts of your home where the signal cannot reach.
On the other hand, a mesh system provides you with more wireless coverage and a reliable connection hence eliminating WiFi dead zones in your home.
Router Features
Consumers commonly prioritize features like beamforming, parental controls, MU-MIMO, and quality of service when selecting routers.
Parental control allows users to block devices and websites and establish usage schedules, granting greater control over children’s internet access. This ensures that your children have a safe and secure internet experience.
Quality of Service (QoS) is crucial for optimizing limited bandwidth in internet plans, enabling users to prioritize bandwidth allocation for specific activities. This is especially important if you have lots of devices depending on internet access.
MU-MIMO and beamforming utilize router antennas effectively, enhancing performance by enabling simultaneous communication with multiple devices and improving signal reception through targeted antenna signals.
Additionally, most routers come with advanced security features like VPNs and firewalls. This allows you to create access controls that protect your network from unauthorized access.
Cox Compatible Routers FAQs
Are All Routers Compatible with Cox?
Routers generally do not face compatibility issues as modems do. Regardless of whether they are single, double, or triple-band routers, they are typically compatible with internet service providers (ISPs).
However, it is advisable to choose a router that aligns with your subscribed plan, such as selecting the best router for your Cox speed package.
Additionally, consider factors like coverage area, the number of connected devices, and other specific requirements to ensure that the chosen router adequately supports your needs.
How Much Does Cox Charge For A Router Rental?
Please note that pricing is subject to change, but the rental fees for Cox’s modems and gateways typically range from $6.99 to $12.00 per month.
Should I Get A Modem Router Combo Or Separate Devices?
For Cox cable plan subscribers, it is worth considering the option of using a separate modem and router instead of a combination gateway device.
Buying them separately typically provides access to better features and improved performance, as well as a wider range of choices. However, the appeal of simplicity in using a combination device is understandable.
For Cox fiber customers, the distinction is not as significant. In their case, an ONT (Optical Network Terminal) provided by the network will be used instead of a modem, and therefore, only a router is necessary.
Final Words
Hopefully, this article has given you all the information that you need to know when deciding which Cox compatible router to purchase to meet your internet needs.
Every review mentioned in this article gives you in detail of the different specifications and features that each router has to offer.
If you are finding it hard to decide, our top choice for the best router for Cox is the TP-Link Archer AX73 as it comes with a high internet speed of up to 5400 Mbps to ensure that you have the best internet performance.
This allows you and other users to game and stream without experiencing any buffering, especially when all the devices are connected to the network at the same time.
You should refer to the buying guide as it explains in detail the different factors that you need to consider before buying a router that is compatible with Cox.
The router that you purchase should provide you with enough internet speed, coverage, and range that your home requires.
