With the world taking a turn towards the concept of remote working. The availability of the Internet became a necessity. But, merely connecting the cables with the network doesn’t do the job.
So, how would you know if buying Frontier internet would suit your modem set up at home? What are the things through which one judges a model’s compatibility with Frontier?
As the demand for the Internet increased, various companies popped up offering their network services. Many of them, including Frontier, approved a handful of modems as compatible.
Although, buying a top-tier modem is no doubt a worthy investment. But, for a budget buy, you may consider the Arris NVG443B from our list. However, for gaming and heavy-uploading applications, there are other options as well.
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Top Tier Frontier Compatible Modems
| Netgear D2200D – Best Pick | Motorola MD 1600 – Best Performance | Arris NVG443B – Budget Buy |
| Heat dissipation design. Excellent performance. No separate router is needed. | Efficient in performance. Dual functionality: Modem and router. Secure and reliable. | Budget-friendly. Future-proofed. No need to invest in a router separately. |
Performance Metrics we Consider to Test the Shortlisted Modems
The Modem Technology
As you know, Frontier provides two kinds of Internet services. DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) and fiber optic services called Frontier FiberOptic. Being a geek, you will surely want to go with the fiber optic option. Although it is the best Internet yet, its complex setup limits its availability.
So, we pull over to the DSL. The models reviewed here are primarily compatible with the DSL version of Frontier. But, fiber will most likely prevail in the upcoming time, so we have shed some light on that as well.
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Speed
The next factor we looked at was speed. Upstream and downstream speeds mainly affect the entire performance of the modem. Let’s take a look at the speeds available so that accessing the models is easier. There are three typical speeds for DSL technology.
ADSL:
Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber line. It offers lower upload and higher download speed. It makes it suitable for home use but unsuitable for businesses.
VDSL:
Very high bit-rate digital subscriber line. It is the fastest type of DSL technology for both home and business applications.
SDSL:
Symmetric Digital subscriber line. It provides equal upload and download speeds. Mainly suitable for video streaming and similar applications which require the same speed in both directions.
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Dual Capacity Of Router And Modem
Although, this is something many people don’t give much thought to. But our experimentations revealed that a model with dual functionality is worth buying.
Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Speed | Wi-Fi Standards | Technology |
| Netgear D2200D | Modem-Router Combo | 1 Gbps | 802.11n | DSL |
| MotorolaMD1600 | Modem- Router Combo | 100 Mbps | 802.11ac | DSL |
| Arris NVG443B | Modem only | 686 Mbps | 802.11b/g/n/ac | DSL |
| Verizon Fios G3100 | Modem- Router Combo | 54Mbps in single-stream | Wi-Fi 6 supported | Fiber Optic |
| ActiontecGT701D | Modem-router combo | 24 Mbps | 802.11b | DSL |
Things to Consider when Buying Modems
ISP Compatibility
The first thing you need to check is that your modem is compatible with your network. It must match the download stream of your service plan. Else the connection will become a bottleneck.
Sometimes ISPs have infrastructures that vary significantly from other networks. Therefore, before picking a model, you must check the ISP’s website for the approved models.
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Upstream and Downstream Capacity
The modem’s speed (up and downstream) is what matters next. It is technically a feature incorporated into the modem’s chipset. The speed you need ultimately depends on your working needs.
Modem Technology
There are various kinds of modems—cable modems, DSL modems, Ethernet modems, etc. If your modem type doesn’t match the internet type, things won’t work.
Since we are talking about a DSL and fiber optic ISP here, the listed modems use both these technologies.
Warranty
The last thing you’ll have to keep an eye out for is the device’s warranty. Having a good warranty is necessary as unfortunate events may happen.
For instance, Motorola offers a warranty of two years while Netgear has a year’s warranty. Also, ensure that you choose an authentic dealer with your purchase. So, things go smooth if you need support or a fixing.
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Review of Top 5 Frontier Compatible Modems
1. Netgear D2200D – Best Pick
Key Features
- Good N300 Speed
- Netgear Genie application support
- 4 Ethernet ports
- Heat dissipating design
Specifications
- Brand: Netgear
- Connectivity Software: Netgear Genie
- Ports: 1 DSL phone, 4 gigabit Ethernet
- Security features: WPA2-PSK/ WPA
Product Review
When you are looking for something that works smoothly and matches the streaming and gaming requirements, then D2200D is your go-to. Capable of handling internet plans up to 100Mbps, we observed that D2200D performed better than most class models.
Moreover, the 4gpbs Ethernet ports help to avail up to 1gpbs speed for wire connection. This is a big go for heavy consumption. Coming to the circuits included in the modem, it features a dual-core processor. However, that is not all. The model provides the flexibility of updates as well. For user requirements demanding more power, you can also add subordinate processor chips.
However, on the downside, the internal antennas are a rip-off, as they cannot be upgraded. Hence, for distant use, it may not be a good choice.
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Plus Point: Features TR-096 for remote setup and fast troubleshooting.
Benefits
- It delivers fast performance compared to other models
- It is affordable with dual features of router and modem
Drawbacks
- Its suitable for only Frontier ADSL Service and not VDSL
Check out the complete review here:
2. Motorola MD 1600 – Best Performance and Security
Key Features
- It supports both VDSL and ADSL
- High-speed wired and wireless connections
- Advanced firewall security
- Two band modem with high-speed bands
Specifications
- Brand: Motorola
- Configuration: AC1600
- Ethernet Ports: 4
- Supported Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 n, ac, g, and b
Product Review
The MD 1600 from Motorola is an exemplary working model for Frontier DSL plans. Offering up to 100 Mbps, it is a dual-band model with 5 and 2.4 GHz bands to provide a long-range signal throw without glitches or disconnections.
It offers the features of both modem and router. As for the modem part, it works with VDSL2/ ADSL2 type networks; however, it is not fit for bonded VDSL. While as a router, it uses reliable security protocols.
We liked the compactness of the model as it fits easily into small spaces. However, the price here is not favorable. According to our evaluation, the model doesn’t provide enough features to match its price tag. Another good thing is the extended warranty of two years. Good security features help protect the devices and the network from viruses.
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Plus Point: DSL router combo helps save space
Benefits:
- Its setup wizard includes automatic network detection.
- Its features the latest VPN capability.
Drawbacks:
- It does not support VDSL.
Check out the complete review here: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/frontier-compatible-modems
3. Arris NVG443B – Full-featured Budget Buy
Key Features
- Includes two internal antennas for reception
- Supports ADSL2, ADSL2+, and VDSL2
- Supports 802.11ac Wi-Fi technology
- Features four Ethernet ports
Specifications
- Brand: Arris
- Antennas: Omi-directional
- Weight: 3lbs
- Peak Speed: 940 Mbps
Product Review
The next model on our list is Arris NVG443B. Compared to the models listed above, this one is a good fit when you have a limited budget. Also, it is the model Frontier rents to its customers as part of its service.
Arris NVG443B is a two-band modem primarily designed for DSL connections. Its easy setup and running costs are two main factors you should consider buying it. Owing to the versatility of the modem, it also works well as a router.
When we tested it for a gaming environment, it gave anti-lagging results. Although, it doesn’t offer the speed of other high-functioning models. But, for the price tag, its features are remarkable.
Furthermore, it has a download speed of 1Gbps, which is way better than other models of the same line. The four Ethernet ports allow you to quickly set up a home network that shares peripheral devices and share media files efficiently. Being a gateway, we observed that it could help users maximize the available bandwidth for home and office use.
Moreover, we found that the modem doesn’t have the VoIP featured as advertised.
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Plus Point: the modem uses MIMO technology, which allows the user to connect devices wirelessly without lagging.
Benefits
- It is available at economical prices.
- It offers a reliable gateway platform.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t support VoIP
Check out details here: https://www.modemguides.com/shop/arris-nvg443b/
4. Verizon Fios G3100 – Best for Frontier Fiber Optic Network
Key Features
- Automatic band switching
- Tri-band modem technology
- My Fios App for mobile controlling
- Provides 150% improved Wi-Fi range
Specifications
- Band type: Two-band modem
- Max speed: 2.5 Gbps
- Dimensions: 9 x 5 x 5 inches
- Supported Wi-Fi: 802.11a/b/g/n
Product Review
We have seen the modems for DSL connections. But what if you plan on buying one for Frontier fiber-optic connection. In that case, Verizon Fios G3100 is worth considering.
Compactly designed and providing a maximum speed of 2.5 Gbps, it makes a superb choice for the Frontier fiber-optic network. But you need to set up the ONT right.
The G3100 is not compatible with other Wi-Fi mesh systems. Therefore, if you are buying the G3100 for your home, you’ll also need to purchase a Verizon Extender as well.
Now coming to the hardware overview, the G3100 has lost another USB port compared to its predecessor. We think it needs to introduce some ports to attach printers and other devices.
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Plus Point: A compactly designed model which works both as a modem and router.
Benefits
- It is compactly designed
- It supports the latest Wi-Fi technologies
Drawbacks
- There is no port to attach peripheral devices.
Check out the complete review
5. Actiontec GT701D – Best For Small Setups
Key Features
- Compatible with the major ISPs.
- Suitable for internet plans up to 24Mbps.
- Power-efficient & eco-friendly.
- Quick installation with the 1 DSL and 1 Ethernet port.
Product Review
Like the previously reviewed Motorola MD 1600, Actiontec GT701D is a reliable, secure, and on-going DSL modem with a price tag under $100. This device also works as a gateway. You don’t have to invest in the router separately.
The black color and elegant design make it a perfect choice for looks-conscious people. It has four LED lights facing the front of one RJ-45 Ethernet port for connecting Pcs and routers.
We tested the modem with the Xbox to measure its efficiency. It delivers smooth and lag-free speedy performance. The pre-installed auto-configuration tool functions pretty well with any operating system.
Furthermore, the maximum downloading speed it can support 24Mbps. On the other hand, it has an uploading speed of 1.4Mbps. Bye-Bye to the stuttering video streams and non-stop wait while downloading heavy files.
Well, the device is suitable for small-scale or home setups. We don’t recommend it with the large infrastructures.
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Plus Point: To protect your network from DOS attacks, it comes with the built-in Stateful Firewall with several security levels.
Benefits
- It’s easy to set up.
- Its equipped with sturdy plastic and a compact design.
Drawbacks
- It’s not recommended for industries or companies.
Conclusion
Frontier is an internet providing both DSL and Fiber Optic networks. As a part of their service, they rent out modems if your equipment isn’t compatible. However, the rented models aren’t always the best.
If you are looking for a passionately designed gadget that supports heavy gaming and streaming with other high-bandwidth applications. Consider the all-rounder Netgear D2200D.
