As long as they have a compatible model, all of CenturyLink’s customers are able to use their own personal router with the company’s service.
I have spent years of my life working with different internet setups, modems, and routers. My personal knowledge of the technology behind the devices, paired with research on CenturyLink’s policies, gave me the ability to pen the following sections.
This guide breaks down, not just how CenturyLink customers are able to use their own routers with CenturyLink’s internet service, but the pros and cons of making that decision as well.
Contents
Key Takeaways
- As long as the device is compatible with their service, CenturyLink has little issue with customers branching out and using a personal router with their internet.
- Using your own router with CenturyLink provides you with more freedom and choice in terms of how you want your network to operate. It cuts down on monthly fees as well.
- Buying your own router rather than going with CenturyLink’s can raise the upfront cost, and will make fixing or dealing with any issues a little more complicated on the backend.
Picking a Personal Router with CenturyLink
CenturyLink is a major telecommunications company that specializes in a wide range of services, including phone, TV, voice, and fiber. They offer premium internet as well. That means they also offer equipment.
When a customer signs up for CenturyLink’s internet, they get a modem and router, or a getaway device that fills the role of both. Most users will just go with those devices for their time with the company, but they don’t have to. There are plenty of third-party options too.
As with so many large internet providers, CenturyLink has little issue with their customers using their own routers with the service. Anyone can hook up their own device, especially if they want to branch out or try different setups at their home.
Just know that if you want to go that route, the device needs to be compatible with the company’s service. Always check that it will work with the type of connection you’re using (DSL or Fiber) and have CenturyLink approve the device.
Once those two steps are done, you’re good to go.
Using Your Own Router with CenturyLink: The Pros
There’s nothing wrong with using the devices provided by CenturyLink, but doing so comes with specific limitations. First, and perhaps most important, is that you have much more control over your internet when using your own router.
CenturyLink’s products tend to be more than serviceable for their internet connection. In some cases, they’re great. However, they also lock you in without any wiggle room. You may not want to improve your speed or service, but even if you did you don’t have that option.
Anytime you use a provided device, you’re limited. By getting your own routers, you break those bonds and are able to tune your internet to your specifications. Whatever you want, or whatever you need,
Security is a big reason as well. No matter how strong or secure a CenturyLink router is, you can always get better protections or more firewalls with a personal device.
On top of that, it’s important to keep in mind that you won’t have to pay for CenturyLink’s router either. That gets rid of any monthly fees, which is particularly relevant for those who plan on using CenturyLink’s service for a long time.
Using Your Own Router with CenturyLink: The Cons
Though there are many reasons why a user would want to use their own router when going with CenturyLink, there are a few reasons why some might stay away. The biggest has to do with a combination of both ease and general functionality.
When you get a CenturyLink device, it comes with a certain backing. That is to say, the company ensures it will work with their internet and they will help you out should any issues or long-term problems arise with the product. That goes away if you use your own router.
As every product comes from a different company, you have to go through them if your router experiences any issues. Not being able to simply call up CenturyLink for a quick fix can be an issue, especially if you’re someone who isn’t particularly technologically savvy.
On top of that, the company will not replace the modem like they would if you owned one of their devices. That means if something does go wrong you need to make an additional purchase.
Price can be a negative as well. Though you don’t have to pay a monthly fee, which could theoretically save you money in the long run, getting your own router greatly increases the upfront cost. That’s a tradeoff some people might like that others will stay away from.
FAQs
This section tackles some of the biggest and most popular questions surrounding personal routers.
Do I Need a Router and Modem for My WiFi?
Modems and routers, while two different devices are both essential in creating a stable and smooth internet connection. Having only one without the other will cause issues. The only exception to that rule is if you get a gateway device, which is a router and modem in one.
How Much Does CenturyLink Charge for a Modem?
CenturyLink leases their modems for a small fee of $15 a month. However, if you’re someone who plans on using them for a long time, or if you simply don’t like fees, you can purchase their model for a one-time charge between $150 and $200 (depending on your situation).
Can I Extend My CenturyLink WiFi?
For the most part, yes. CenturyLink products are compatible with almost all standard WiFi extenders and mesh systems. If you want to get a better range or more from your connection, you can.
Final Words
CenturyLink is a solid internet provider with plenty of upside. Still, the benefits of getting a personal router outweigh the cons for many users. What you use comes down to personal preference and how much control you want over your setup.
Do you have service through CenturyLink? If so, do you use your own router or theirs? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments below!
