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CenturyLink compatible modems
This page covers which modems are recommended for best performance with CenturyLink service and which modems are CenturyLink certified.
Understanding modem compatibility
Every modem is built to work with a specific type of internet technology and in a particular speed range. CenturyLink uses different core technologies (fiber and different types of DSL) depending on your location and the speed you selected.
Why does this matter? Even if you have a CenturyLink modem, it will only work if it is compatible with the specific technology and speed of your service.
Recommended CenturyLink modems
CenturyLink's all-in-one modem/router, referred to as a gateway, allows you to connect your WiFi-enabled devices to the internet without additional equipment. The latest, premium WiFi gateways that we offer are the models pictured here.
When ordering internet service, the right gateway will automatically be selected for you based on the internet technology and speed available at your address.
Modem options
| Lease | $15/month | Newer models include Secure WiFi |
| Purchase | $150 - $200 | Includes 12-month warranty for repair or replacement |
Rates subject to change. Taxes may apply.
Internet-only customers, you may be able to order a new modem online.
Here's how to check: Sign in to My CenturyLink and find "My Internet" under the Home tab or the Services tab. Then look for an "Upgrade Modem" link to go to online ordering. If you don't see the link, you can't order online at this time, but you may still be eligible for an upgrade. Call or chat and an agent will help walk you through the process.
Certified CenturyLink modems
"Certified" means our modems have been tested on the CenturyLink network to make sure they perform as expected and work with our internet technology. The drop-down below includes all the CenturyLink-certified modems that are currently in use.
Find the model number on your modem sticker
Check the sticker on the back or bottom of the modem to find your model name and number.
Select a brand and model to see modem compatibility details.
- Select modem brand/model
- Actiontec C3000A
- C4000 series (all models)
- Technicolor C1100T
- Zyxel C1100Z
- Zyxel C3000Z
- Zyxel C3510XZ
- Other Actiontec modems
- Other Zyxel modems
- All other modems
C3000A specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Actiontec C3000A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps (140 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C4000 series models
Click below to open specifications for your C4000 modem.
C4000BG specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz 802.11 ax (WiFi 6)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Axon C4000BG works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL2 | up to 40 Mbps (pair-bonded only) |
| VDSL | up to 140 Mbps (pair-bonded only) |
Notes:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Zyxel C4000BZ.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C4000LG specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz 802.11 ax (WiFi 6)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Axon C4000LG works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps |
Notes:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Zyxel C4000LZ.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C4000XG specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz 802.11 ax (WiFi 6)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The C4000XG works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Notes:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Zyxel C3510XZ.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C4000BZ specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz 802.11 ax (WiFi 6)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C4000BZ works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL2 | up to 40 Mbps (pair-bonded only) |
| VDSL | up to 140 Mbps (pair-bonded only) |
Note:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Axon (Greenwave) C4000BG.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C4000LZ specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz 802.11 ax (WiFi 6)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C4000LZ works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps |
Note:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Axon (Greenwave) C4000LG.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C1100T specifications
WiFi supported: 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Technicolor C1100T works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C1100Z specifications
WiFi supported: 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features: Secure WiFi compatible
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C1100Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C3000Z specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C3000Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL1 | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps (140 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C3510XZ specifications
WiFi supported:
- 4 x 4 wireless radio
- 2.4 GHz: 802.11 b/g/n/ax
- 5 GHz: WiFi 6 (802.11 ax)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Other features:
- Up to 4 wireless networks (SSIDs)
- WPS / WPS 2.0 compatible
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C3510XZ works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Notes:
- This modem has the same speed and technology specifications as the Greenwave C4000XG.
- Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Other Actiontec models
Click below to open specifications for your Actiontec modem.
C1000A specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Actiontec C1000A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL1 | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 80 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C1000A specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Actiontec C1900A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C2000A specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Actiontec C2000A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C2300A specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Actiontec C2300A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL2 | up to 25 Mbps pair-bonded |
| VDSL | up to 100 Mbps (140 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| G.Fast | up to 100 Mbps |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
PK5000 specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Actiontec PK5000 works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
PK5001A specifications
Compatibility details
The Actiontec PK5001A works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2+ | up to 20 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Q1000 specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Actiontec Q1000 works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Other Zyxel models
Click below to open specifications for your Zyxel modem.
C1000Z specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C1000Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C2100Z specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Zyxel C2100Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
FR1000Z specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Zyxel FR1000Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 500 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
PK5000Z specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Zyxel PK5000Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
PK5001Z specifications
Compatibility details
The Actiontec PK5001Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Q1000Z specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Zyxel Q1000Z works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Other models
Click below to open specifications for your modem.
C424G specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Adtran C424G works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C844G specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Calix C844G works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C2000T specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Technicolor C2000T works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL1 | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL2 | up to 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
C2100T specifications
WiFi supported:
- 2.4 GHz 802.11 b/g/n
- 5 GHz 802.11 ac (WiFi 5)
IP compatibility: IPv4, IPv6
Compatibility details
The Technicolor C2100T works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL1 | up to 7 Mbps |
| ADSL2 | up to 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) |
| VDSL | up to 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded |
| Fiber (GPON) | up to 940 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
7500 specifications
Note: This modem will be retired soon. Learn how to upgrade >
Compatibility details
The Westell 7500 works with these CenturyLink internet services:
| Type of Technology | Tested Speed |
| ADSL1 | up to 6 Mbps |
| ADSL2+ | up to 10 Mbps |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Modem compatibility table
* The newest models are shown below in green. Learn more >
| DSL Max Tested Download Speeds |
Fiber Max Tested Download Speeds |
|||||
| Model | ADSL | ADSL2 | VDSL | GPON | Ports | Features |
| Actiontec C1000A | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 80 Mbps | N/A | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Actiontec C1900A | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 40 Mbps (100 Mbps bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Actiontec C2000A | 7 Mbps | 20 Mpbs (40 Mbps bonded) | 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Actiontec C2300A | N/A | 25 Mbps bonded | 100 Mpbs (140 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac, CBRAS |
| Actiontec C3000A | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 100 Mpbs (140 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac |
| Actiontec PK5000 | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | N/A | N/A | 100 Mbps Eth (4) | 2.4 GHz b/g |
| Actiontec PK5001A | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | N/A | N/A | 100 Mbps Eth (4) | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Actiontec Q1000 | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 40 Mbps | N/A | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Adtran C424G | N/A | N/A | N/A | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4) | CenturyLink ON, IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5GHz n/ac |
| Axon C4000BG | N/A | 40 Mbps pair-bonded | 140 Mbps pair-bonded | N/A |
Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Axon C4000LG | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 100 Mbps | N/A | Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Axon C4000XG | N/A | N/A | N/A | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Calix C844G | N/A | N/A | N/A | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | CenturyLink ON, IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5GHz n/ac |
| Greenwave C4000 series | See Axon models above | |||||
| Technicolor C1100T | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 40 Mbps | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, CBRAS |
| Technicolor C2000T | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Technicolor C2100T | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac, CBRAS |
| Westell 7500 | 6 Mbps | 10 Mbps | N/A | N/A | Eth (4) | 2.4 GHz b/g |
| Zyxel C1000Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 40 Mbps | N/A | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C1100Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 100 Mbps | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C2100Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 40 Mbps (100 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C3000Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps (40 Mbps pair-bonded) | 100 Mbps (140 Mbps pair-bonded) | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, Vectoring, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C3510XZ | N/A | N/A | N/A | 940 Mbps | Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C4000BZ | N/A | 40 Mbps pair-bonded | 140 Mbps pair-bonded | N/A |
Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Zyxel C4000LZ | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 100 Mbps | N/A | Gig Eth (5), USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n, 5 GHz n/ac/ax, CBRAS |
| Zyxel FR1000Z | N/A | N/A | N/A | 500 Mbps | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port C | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Zyxel PK5000Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | N/A | N/A | 1000 Mbps Eth (4) | 2.4 GHz b/g |
| Zyxel PK5001Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | N/A | N/A | Gig Eth (4); USB Host Port | IPv6, 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
| Zyxel Q1000Z | 7 Mbps | 20 Mbps | 40 Mbps | N/A | 100 Mbps Eth (4) | 2.4 GHz b/g/n |
Note: Listed speeds reflect the maximum download speed the technology can deliver on CenturyLink services. In-home speeds may differ based on router setup, devices and other factors.
Don't see your modem listed?
If your modem is not on the CenturyLink certified or recommended modem list, it’s either a retired CenturyLink device or what’s called a third-party modem (from another provider).
CenturyLink highly recommends using one of our certified or recommended WiFi modems (gateways), which have been tested and approved to work optimally with our high-speed internet technology. Retired and third-party devices are more likely to cause performance issues and may not connect to your internet service correctly.
If you're ready for an upgrade, contact us to purchase or lease a new modem.
CenturyLink modem/router FAQs
Have more questions about CenturyLink modems? Check out the most common questions and answers below.
For optimal performance, the preferred models for CenturyLink DSL internet service are:
The compatible models for CenturyLink Fiber service are:
You will get the best experience and performance by using certified CenturyLink equipment. Why? Our modem/router combo (gateway) is tested and guaranteed to be optimized for maximum performance and easy setup. Our modems also come with free 24/7 tech support. You can purchase or lease a compatible modem from CenturyLink to use with your service. If bringing your own modem is an option, you will see a note during the online order process. However, not all modems are able to connect to CenturyLink internet service. Check the drop-down above to learn more about each model of gateway offered.
Read more about using third-party modems.
"Certified" means our modems have been tested on the CenturyLink network to ensure they are compatible with our internet technology and that they perform as expected. Our technical experts determine the modem's maximum speed and check IP compatibility. All CenturyLink-certified modems include 24/7 technical support and free McAfee security protection.
If you are looking to use a different modem with your existing service, our representatives can help you determine compatibility. If you are ordering new service, you will be guided to purchase or lease the correct CenturyLink modem to get the best connection and performance.
What's the difference between a modem and a router? And what's a gateway?
- A modem connects your home network to the larger provider network. The modem is essentially what brings the internet into your home.
- A router transmits the internet connection to multiple devices in your home or business, either over a wired Ethernet connection or over WiFi. The router also allows your devices to talk to each other and share information.
- A gateway combines the function of both the modem and the router into one device. All CenturyLink "modems" are these 2-in-1 gateways.
The bottom line: For many customers, these three words are interchangeable. Since most internet users today prefer the term modem, we use it across our Support Center. We do sometimes call it a router when talking about WiFi. And, if you contact tech support, agents will often refer to it as a gateway.
Learn more >
Top Modem/Router Topics
Modem Recycling Program
Send us your old CenturyLink modem at no cost and we'll recycle it!
Secure WiFi
- Security for your home or business network and all connected devices
- Manage devices
- Control content
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