Technology

Tech tip: the 6 top expert-reviewed modems

Published

1 year ago

December 22, 2022

Tech tip: the 6 top expert-reviewed modems

I’ve defined within the CyberGuy characteristic Tips on how to decrease your Web service invoice that proudly owning versus renting a modem can chip away at overpaying. In lots of circumstances, you could have extra management over your modem and privateness. Go verify your invoice from final month and if you happen to see that you’re paying a price to hire your modem and/or router, it could be time to spend money on your personal to economize in the long term.

CLICK TO GET KURT’S CYBERGUY NEWSLETTER WITH QUICK TIPS, TECH REVIEWS, SECURITY ALERTS AND EASY HOW-TO’S TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

Prime 6 Picks for Greatest Modems

For the perfect modem, try the listing beneath. The main target is on cable modems primarily as a result of DSL is an older expertise that’s being phased out and fiber-optics is a more recent expertise that isn’t available in lots of places.

LAPTOP SCREEN TOO SMALL? TOP PORTABLE MONITORS MAKE EVERYTHING BIGGER

MOTOROLA MB7420

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 72% 5-star opinions out of 6,667 opinions

Execs:

Inexpensive
DOCSIS 3.0 (16x quicker than DOCSIS 2.0 modem)
Sits taller than wider so smaller footprint whether it is sitting on a desk
Actual easy, color-coded connection ports
US-based buyer help
Two-year guarantee
Works with Prime Cable Suppliers: Comcast, Spectrum, Cox

Cons:

Doesn’t have a phone adapter or telephone jack
Not as small as another modems

Get the Motorola MB7420

Motorola MB8611

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 76% 5-star opinions out of 25,496 opinions

Execs:

DOCSIS 3.1 Know-how means it’s quicker than DOCSIS 3.0 and it’s backward appropriate
Multi-gigabit ethernet velocity so it’s maximizing velocity to routers
Sits taller than wider so smaller footprint whether it is sitting on a desk
US-based buyer help
Two-year guarantee
Works with Prime Cable Suppliers: Comcast, Spectrum, Cox

Cons:

Extra Costly than among the older modems and it could possibly pay for itself in a few 12 months relying on how a lot you pay monthly for a modem

Get the Motorola MB8611

The router connects to the modem through ethernet and you’ll then join your WIFI gadgets comparable to cellphones and tablets to the web with out having to attach them to the modem through ethernet cable.
(CyberGuy)

NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 72% 5-star opinions out of 6,257 opinions

Execs:

DOCSIS 3.0 expertise
Sits taller than wider so smaller footprint whether it is sitting on a desk
Works with Prime Cable Suppliers: Comcast, Spectrum, Cox
Completely different value factors for various max obtain speeds (so you’ll be able to pay kind of relying on how a lot velocity you want)
Works with any router
As much as 800Mbps speeds

Cons:

Technically optimized to be appropriate with Nighthawk routers, that are routers that this model makes
No telephone jack
Restricted One-year guarantee

Get the NETGEAR Cable Modem CM700I-SPY: CHANGE YOUR COMPUTER’S SETTINGS TO STOP PROGRAMS SPYING ON YOU

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 75% 5-star opinions out of seven,439 opinions

Execs:

DOCSIS 3.1 Know-how means it’s quicker than DOCSIS 3.0
Sits taller than wider so smaller footprint whether it is sitting on a desk
Works with Prime Cable Suppliers: Comcast, Spectrum, Cox
Works with any router
Multi-gig ethernet integration
4 ethernet ports

Cons:

Costly
Not appropriate with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL suppliers, DirecTV, DISH, and any bundled voice service

Get the NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem CM1200

ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 71% 5-star opinions out of 5,155 opinions

Execs:

DOCSIS 3.0 expertise
Works with any router
As much as 800Mbps speeds
Appropriate with main U.S. Cable Web Suppliers together with Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others

Cons:

Not DOCSIS 3.1
Not appropriate with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink, or different DSL or Fiber web suppliers.

Get the ARRIS SURFboard SB6190

ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

Amazon assessment (at time of publishing): 76% 5-star opinions out of 16,392 opinions

Execs:

DOCSIS 3.1 Know-how means it’s quicker than DOCSIS 3.0
Two 1-Gigabit ethernet ports
Speeds as much as 1 Gbps
Authorized for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & others

Cons:

Extra Costly than among the older modems and total it pays for itself in about 2 years relying on how a lot you pay monthly for a modem
Not appropriate with ATT, Verizon, CenturyLink, or different DSL or Fiber web suppliers

Get the ARRIS SURFboard SB8200

Tips on how to Purchase the Greatest Router

Displays devices using WiFi from the same Wifi router/modem.

Shows gadgets utilizing WiFi from the identical Wifi router/modem.
(Cyberguy)

Modems connect with routers through ethernet cables. Most routers have a further ethernet port for wired connection to your gadgets. Most routers have Wi-Fi capabilities so as soon as your modem is related to a Wi-Fi router, it permits your gadgets to connect with the web through Wi-Fi.

Options to search for in a router:

Community Sort: Routers can help you create Wi-Fi networks. There are two normal sorts:
802.11ac: Newest and quickest expertise that’s backward appropriate with older Wi-Fi gadgets. When you have many gadgets to attach through Wi-Fi, that is your finest wager.
802.11n: That is older expertise with a typical velocity of as much as 600 Mbps, whereas the newer 802.11ac routers have throughputs as quick as 1 Gbps. One profit is that it has an extended vary.
802.11ac: Newest and quickest expertise that’s backward appropriate with older Wi-Fi gadgets. When you have many gadgets to attach through Wi-Fi, that is your finest wager.
802.11n: That is older expertise with a typical velocity of as much as 600 Mbps, whereas the newer 802.11ac routers have throughputs as quick as 1 Gbps. One profit is that it has an extended vary.
Wi-fi Band: It’s a vary of frequencies that transmit knowledge out of your router to your gadgets. Under are 3 sorts:
Single: Makes use of 2.4 GHz band or 5 GHz
Twin: Makes use of each 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Tri: Makes use of 2.4 GHz and a pair of separate 5 GHz
Single: Makes use of 2.4 GHz band or 5 GHz
Twin: Makes use of each 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Tri: Makes use of 2.4 GHz and a pair of separate 5 GHz

2.4 GHz bands are nice for connecting gadgets like sensible bulbs and wi-fi home equipment. Whereas gadgets like tablets and laptops fare higher on a 5 GHz band. Having a router that has a number of gadgets helps to parcel out the community site visitors by system sorts.

Beamforming: This enables the Wi-Fi router to direct indicators to the place it’s wanted probably the most. That is nice for giant areas the place gadgets and routers are additional aside or situated in much less reachable locations.

For the Prime Router Picks, head over to CyberGuy.com and search “high routers”

Execs & Cons of Mixture Gadgets

Wireless router with three antennas and cable connected. Man using smartphone in background

Wi-fi router with three antennas and cable related. Man utilizing smartphone in background
(iStock)

Whereas there are some modem-router mixture gadgets, it’s typically higher to get them individually.

Often, if a supplier requires you to make use of their tools to attach, they normally require the modem to be rented or bought from them. They normally can help you decide your personal router. Some further explanation why a separate router and modem is healthier than a mixture system, embrace:

Simpler to troubleshoot. If is there an issue with the connection, it’s normally obvious if the issue is stemming immediately from the ISP vs. your inside {hardware} points (router) if gadgets are separate as a result of you’ll get particular indicators on a modem vs. a router. Whereas, in case you have a mixture system, it normally would not delineate between issues with the modem or router.
Generally cheaper. If you happen to could not have the ability to negotiate the price of the modem, but when you should buy the router individually, you’ll be able to in all probability discover a higher splendid
Higher expertise. Whilst you could also be caught with no matter expertise that the ISP is offering you modem-wise, if you happen to can select your personal router, you should buy the most recent and finest router to maximise the velocity you’re paying for.
Pay much less in Taxes. You’ll be taxed solely on the tools you’re renting.
Simpler to exchange. If the modem breaks, you continue to have a working router, and vice versa. Whereas, with a mixture system breaks, all of it’s damaged.

The one actual draw back to not buying a mixture system is that typically you do need to pay for 2 separate gadgets. Once more, you would possibly save by getting a greater value on these two separate purchases.

When Ought to You NOT Purchase Your Personal Tools

In fact, you are inspired to do your personal analysis to seek out out precisely what suppliers are literally obtainable in your space and what the corporate you choose will permit.

Under are high causes NOT to purchase your personal tools:

Towards the corporate’s coverage. There are nonetheless some ISPs that make it part of their phrases and providers that you should hire or purchase their tools.
Free tools. Whereas not as widespread, some Web Service Suppliers, comparable to AT&T, really present tools for free of charge to their clients. Until the tools they supply is an actual ‘fossil’ that options yesteryears expertise, it would simply be good to make the most of the free tools. It’s already included in the price of your month-to-month service.
Setup Woes. If you happen to’re not savvy with expertise and like to have another person come by and arrange the tools, you would possibly wish to hire or purchase the tools out of your Web Service Supplier and have them set it up. In circumstances like ViaSat, there’s set up of specialty tools comparable to a satellite tv for pc that may’t be simply bought or used with out the corporate’s assist.
Repairs/replacements. If rented tools breaks or malfunctions, the ISP normally replaces or repairs it. If you happen to bought your personal, then you’re accountable for repairing or changing it.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

For extra of my dwelling tech picks, head over to cyberguy.com/home-tech and make sure to enroll in my free publication.

Technology

Twitter is officially X.com now

Published

5 hours ago

May 17, 2024

Press Room

The social network formerly known as Twitter has officially adopted X.com for all its core systems. That means typing twitter.com in your browser will now redirect to Elon Musk’s favored domain, or should. At the time of publication, we’re seeing a mix of results depending upon browser choice and whether you’re logged in or not.

A message also now appears at the bottom of the X login page that reads, “We are letting you know that we are changing our URL, but your privacy and data protection settings remain the same.”

Musk has a long history with the x.com URL, launching a business under the name in 1999 that eventually merged with what would become PayPal. For this modern-day version of the company, Musk envisions that it will become a WeChat-like “everything app.”

Maybe, but one thing’s for sure: it’s not Twitter anymore.

Technology

Keyless car theft is on the rise. This is how to protect yourself.

Published

6 hours ago

May 17, 2024

Press Room

Keyless car theft is on the rise. This is how to protect yourself.

Using a relay device, car thieves can amplify the signal from your wireless key fob, even if it is inside your house, and use it to unlock your car.
Storing your key fob in a Faraday bag or using a physical steering wheel lock can help guard you from car theft.
As technology evolves, so do criminal methods. Staying current on information is another important way to protect yourself.

They appear like ghosts in the night, standing outside your house, one holding up an antenna while the other crouches next to the car parked on the driveway. Within seconds, your car is gone, yet another victim amid a surge in auto theft enabled by the technology designed to make it easier to unlock and start vehicles.

Auto technology has evolved and many newer cars use wireless key fobs and push-button starters instead of traditional metal keys. The fob sends a short-range signal, so when the driver approaches the car, it automatically unlocks the door. This saves you the hassle of digging out your keys when you’ve got your hands full with groceries.

But that technology also makes things easier for thieves. The wireless fob will continue to emit a signal even if you’re not using it. Thieves prowl neighborhoods at night looking for cars parked outside so they can carry out so-called relay attacks. Using portable equipment that can pick up the faint signal from a fob inside the house or parking lot, they relay it back to a transmitter that can clone the signal.

NEW TREND OF ‘BURGLARY TOURISM’ ON THE RISE

Officials have urged carmakers to reduce the security vulnerabilities and warn owners about the risks.

So what can you do to reduce the odds that your car will be gone in 60 seconds? “It’s relatively easy for drivers to protect themselves,” said Steve Launchbury, principal engineer of automotive security at Thatcham Research, a U.K.-based automotive risk intelligence company. Here are some tips:

USE A SIGNAL BLOCKER

A simple but effective way to stop auto bandits from purloining your key fob signal is to use a Faraday bag or pouch. They’re lined with a conductive metal mesh that blocks the transmission of electromagnetic signals.

Metropolitan Police Department Sgt. Anthony Walsh sets out steering wheel locks at an anti-crime event in Washington on Nov. 7, 2023. A physical lock that attaches to the steering wheel can act as a visible deterrent to car thieves. (AP Photo/Amanda Andrade-Rhoades, File)

The pouches aren’t expensive, and you can also get boxes that do the same thing. But experts advise testing to make sure they work. Just put the key fob inside and approach your car. If the doors don’t automatically unlock, then the signal is being blocked.

It’s also important to remember to use it whenever you leave your vehicle, and don’t forget to put all of your key fobs inside, including any spares.

But ignore some advice making the rounds on the internet telling you to put your fob in the microwave or freezer. It doesn’t have the same effect as a Faraday bag, and you risk damaging your key.

GET AN OLD-FASHIONED LOCK

Try an old-school solution by using a physical lock. Some police forces advise car owners to use them to make your vehicle look less tempting to steal. The reasoning is that a would-be thief might be deterred by the effort needed to cut through the lock and instead turn their attention to an easier target.

Locks, in the shape of a disk or a long bar, clamp onto the steering wheel and make it difficult to steer. There are also versions that prevent the car from being put in gear. The downside is you’ll need extra time to attach or remove it whenever you aren’t driving.

CHANGE UP YOUR SETTINGS

For many cars, it’s possible to deactivate the wireless setting so that you can’t open the door remotely. For Fords, Hondas and Audis, use the touchscreen menus. If you own a Toyota, you can temporarily disable the signal by holding down the fob’s lock button and at the same time pressing the unlock button twice. If you’ve done it correctly, the fob’s indicator light should blink four times. Be aware that the next time you press any button, remote unlocking will be reactivated.

The method will vary depending on make and model so consult your owner’s manual for the exact process. If it sounds complicated, there are YouTube videos that walk you through it. Don’t forget that in most cases you’ll now have to manually press the fob’s unlock button.

Automakers have started adding motion sensors to key fobs. If the sensor doesn’t detect recent movement because it’s been, say, left on the kitchen counter after you come home, the fob goes into sleep mode and stops transmitting. If it lacks this capability, check with your dealer whether it’s possible to upgrade it.

If you buy a used car, some experts also advise getting the keys reprogrammed, just in case the previous owner kept one of the fobs.

WATCH OUT FOR NEW METHODS

Researchers have uncovered a new auto theft technique that doesn’t target radio signals. The controller area network, or CAN, is “a feature of modern cars which allows different components and systems to communicate, (and) has recently been targeted and exploited by thieves,” said Thatcham’s Launchbury.

The network allows sensors and control modules to talk to each other directly, instead of going through a central node. Thieves take advantage by accessing the network from the car’s exterior, usually by removing a headlight and connecting a device that can “inject” a signal, tricking the car into unlocking and starting.

While automakers work on improving CAN security, “there are steps drivers can take today to add layers of security and deter criminals,” such as using a physical lock, Launchbury said.

Aftermarket electronic immobilizer systems “should render a criminal’s theft tool useless,” and might even get you a discount on auto insurance, he said. Thatcham and other companies offer them but the downside is they can be quite pricey.

Technology

iMessage had an outage, but now it’s back

Published

13 hours ago

May 16, 2024

Press Room

iMessage had an outage, but now it’s back

On Thursday evening, many iPhone owners (including some here at The Verge) saw the “not delivered” flag when trying to send texts via iMessage. People reported the problem across multiple wireless carriers (Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile), countries, and even continents.

The Apple services status page didn’t show any indication of trouble while the problems were going on, but now it has been updated after the fact, reflecting a resolved issue where “Users were unable to use this service” for iMessage, Apple Messages for Business, FaceTime, and HomeKit. According to the note, the problems went on from about 5:39PM ET until 6:35PM ET.

Apple has not responded to inquiries or otherwise commented on the issue; however, judging by our use and reports on social media, everything seems to be up and running again. However, if your international friends are still saying, “Just use WhatsApp!” there isn’t really anything we can do about that.

Update, May 16th: Noted the issue appears to be resolved.