Windstream has made accessibility possible with its exceptional internet service in unreachable areas. So to pair up with their service, you’ll need to look closely at the market for modems that work with their network.
Through our test, we have concluded the Windstream Actiontec T3200 to be the best modem compatible with Windstream. However, the choice should better be made considering the service plan you’re subscribed to.
Therefore, below, we’ve listed four of the top-rated options that can serve you best with Windstream’s internet.
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How We Did the test?
Since Windstream mostly offers a DSL connection, we began the test with our primary focus on the top-rated DSL modems in the market. This was a bit complicated because DSL is now replaced with newer technologies.
Throughout the test, we considered the assurance of the following factors in the products we tested.
Performance:
Modems never run the same speeds as they claim when advertised. A slight difference may be bearable, but a constant decline of speeds isn’t a thing to sit and look at.
Therefore, throughout the test, we monitored the speeds at different intervals and made sure our picks performed at maximum speeds.
Wireless:
Dual expectations aren’t always met in the case of gateways (modem-router combos). Devices suffer on each side because of their two-in-one capabilities.
However, the wireless part seems to suffer most. Thus, we ensured the router part delivers optimal range and stability.
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Security:
For a secure and better internet, security features aren’t to be ignored in any way. So, we made certain that our picks don’t compromise on security features and user controls as well.
Price:
Since we’re here ditching Windstream’s rental internet equipment because of the unfavorable long-term expenses, we made sure that our recommended options offer a good value for money.
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Comparison Table of Windstream Compatible Modems
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What to Consider When Buying a Windstream Compatible Modem?
Choosing a modem appears to be an arduous task for the less tech-savvy people. It gets much more uninteresting with DSL modems. While selecting a suitable modem is only a matter of considering a few simple things.
Type:
First and foremost, you must define your requirements. Decide whether you need a standalone modem or a gateway (modem-router combo). You can buy a separate modem for full configuration access.
Alternatively, if you want to save time and trouble setting up the connection, as well as some shelf space, you can go with a gateway.
Compatibility:
Before picking up a modem, confirm its compatibility with your ISP. Unlike other service providers, Windstream doesn’t actually keep a list of compatible modems with their network.
However, you’ll need to contact them for their help and confirm your connection type (DSL, Fiber) and choose a modem accordingly. Know that you can’t reach Windstream for help in setting up your third-party modem.
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Max Speeds:
Your connection speed is what will decide the modem that suits you. Connection speeds actually depend on your connection type. If you’re a DSL subscriber, you’ll have to confirm what DSL type you’re using.
ADSL and ADSL 2 support speeds up to 12 Mbps. ADSL 2+ supports up to 24 Mbps. VDSL supports up to 52 Mbps speeds. While VDSL 2 and xDSL support speeds higher than 100 Mbps.
Modem Technology:
Since Windstream is a combination of Fiber and DSL network solutions. Therefore, you have to pay attention to the modem’s technology that fits your network type. While fiber users are safe from the hassle, DSL users have to look upon different DSL types (mentioned above) and pick a modem that supports that specific type.
Wireless Technology:
For the ones opting for a gateway, wireless technology takes an additional space in the to-consider list. Wireless technology decides how the wireless part of the gateway will perform. How would its range and throughput be?
For the best results, look for a gateway with the latest 11ax (Wi-Fi 6) and 11ac (Wi-Fi 5) technologies.
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Detailed Review of Modems Compatible with Windstream
Lets dive into the complete review of all the modems one by one. We have highlighted the specs, pros and cons, features, and plus point of each approved modem
1. Windstream Actiontec T3200 xDSL Wireless Router/Modem
Features:
- Optimal antenna placement
- Pair bonding enabled for extended reach and high bit rates
- Ultra-fast speeds of up to 2.3 Gbps
- Easy installation
Specifications:
| Weight | 2.95 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 5 x 2 x 10 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac |
Product Review:
Designed only for Windstream, there might not be any other option that can take the control of your Windstream internet better than the Windstream Actiontec T3200. This is the primary, but not the only, reason it has taken the top place. A deep look at its features will clear all questions hanging.
So let’s first see the outer look. This appears pretty simple and decent, and you won’t be shy about placing it in front of the shelf. This is a rectangular box with a Windstream logo, two LED indicating lights, and a power button.
While the back carries a WAN port, four LAN ports, a USB 3.0 port, and vents to cool things down as it delivers robust performance. Also, if you look for antennas, you’ll find them on the inside.
Then comes the internal specifications. The modem part is equipped with VDSL technology and can deliver gigabit speeds. The router part also isn’t compromised but has both 802.11ac and 802.11n wireless standards. It uses dual Wi-Fi bands of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz for faster speeds and stability.
Therefore, with so much to it, the Actiontec T3200 should be your buying option if you want a worry less sleep in the long term.
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Plus Point: The Actiontec T3200 uses pair-bonding for the router to operate on two lanes instead of one for increased reach and high bit rates of the latest VDSL technology
| PROS | CONS |
| Connects easily | Might exhibit extra heat |
| Wide coverage | |
| Good value for money | |
| Appreciable customer support |
2. Actiontec GT784WN Wireless-N ADSL Modem Router
Features:
- Fewer dead spots and better coverage with MIMO smart technology
- WPA/WPA2 encryption enabled
- Customizable firewall with Stateful Packet Inspection
- Pre-configured and easy setup
Specifications:
| Weight | 1.60 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 6.8 x 1.3 x 7 inches |
| IPv4 Support | – |
| IPv6 Support | – |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11n |
Product Review:
The ones with a limited budget, Actiontec have tried not to forget you with their ultimately simple and pocket-friendly GT784WN. You can blindly put your hands on this if you’re a budget subscriber of Windstream. But of course, budget options come with compromises, so does it.
The Actiontec GT784WN looks like an old piece of electronics with LED indicating lights and two antennas on the back. So it doesn’t sum up to be good in appearance, but the performance isn’t to be overlooked.
This is a gateway with modem enabled with ADSL/ADSL2+ technology supporting up to 24 Mbps speed. However, the router is equipped with the wireless N standard supporting speeds up to 300 Mbps. This might seem low but is sufficient for the low usage.
The appreciable thing about this router is its pre-configuration. The installation becomes pretty simple as it auto-detects your service settings.
So if you’re willing to compromise your high-consuming downloads over the budget, this easy-to-use modem awaits you.
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Plus Point: The Actiontec GT784WN features intrusion detection, through which, it detects any malicious activity and notifies if a network intrusion takes place.
| PROS | CONS |
| Great security features | Standard design |
| Affordable price | |
| The pre-configured device requires a simple setup |
3. NETGEAR Nighthawk R8000 Smart Wi-Fi Router
Features:
- Manage network security for your family with the Circle app
- Wide range with six external antennas
- Dynamic QoS for prioritization for gaming and streaming applications
- Easy setup with Nighthawk app
- One year of warranty
Specifications:
| Weight | 1.03 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 2.14 x 11.54 x 8.92 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac |
Product Review:
High-performance users can never settle for less, even if they reside in a rural area. The NETGEAR Nighthawk R8000 is just for those ‘Pro’ users with Windstream Fiber subscriptions. That look for a heavy-duty modem/router to quench their thirst for extreme data.
This spaceship look-alike modem is an all-black laid device, designed with 6 antennas on top and is quite bulky as a high-performer should be. The middle of this sharply angular device has 13 LED indicating lights. Since this is going to take your Windstream Fiber usage to the next level, it might overheat too. So look for a suitable position.
When it comes to performance, it’s a tri-band router capable of handling three distinct Wi-Fi data lanes, with a 2.4 GHz band and a pair of 5 GHz bands. From which one can be reserved for high-speed traffic. It has a throughput of up to 3.2 Gbps that’s more than enough for a heavy gaming session.
With all this, the Nighthawk R8000 comes with a 1 year of warranty to save your loss in case of device failure. So for a power-packed treat to the data hogs, the R8000 wouldn’t disappoint if given a chance.
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Plus Point: The NETGEAR Nighthawk R8000 also includes a Guest network that allows Web surfing while restricting access to network drives.
| PROS | CONS |
| Setup is simple and easy with apps | Bulky design |
| Excellent performance | Quite expensive |
| Wide range | |
| Six antennas for effective wireless performance |
4. MOTOROLA MD1600 VDSL2/ADSL2 Modem Router
Features:
- Wide Compatibility with major DSL service providers
- USB port for connecting optional USB storage devices.
- Network flexibility with IPv4 and IPv6
- Two years of warranty
Specifications:
| Weight | 0.85 lbs |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 8.5 x 2.38 x 6.75 inches |
| IPv4 Support | Yes |
| IPv6 Support | Yes |
| Telephone Voice Ports | No |
| Wi-Fi Standard | 802.11ac |
Product Review:
Finally, another highly rated gateway, Motorola MD1600, shows up. This one’s mostly appreciated for its wide features and stable performance.
The MD1600 is a black, short-in-height tower that has around 12 LED lights and the Motorola logo on its front. On the back, you’ll find a power button, 4 Ethernet ports, a USB 2.0 port, and a vent to keep the heat away.
The device is a combination of an AC1600 router and a VDSL2/ADSL2+ enabled modem. The router part assures high-speed internet delivery in gigabits with wide coverage. While the modem part is capable of serving a 100 Mbps speed. Which, in actual, it depends on the type of service you’re using.
It’s also to be noted that this device doesn’t work with Bonded ADSL, VDSL, and VDSL Vectoring. Also, to set you on the safe side, the MD1600 offers 2 years of warranty. Therefore, for those looking for a modem for decent usage of Windstream DSL service, the MD1600 is just an easy price away.
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Plus Point: The Motorola MD1600, along with many features also includes a DLNA media sharing feature to share videos and audio files among devices over the network easily
| PROS | CONS |
| Decent price | Ranger may suffer at times |
| Great customer support | |
| Easy setup and quick configuration |
Conclusion
Since the world has now mostly moved towards the Fiber internet, the market has very limited options for DSL modems and gateways. However, these were all the most optimal performing picks we tested.
If you still find it hard to pick one of these, then the Windstream Actiontec T3200 is a safe bet. Because it’s designed to work with the Windstream’s internet and will leave nothing to worry about.
