A cable router is a special wireless router with an integrated cable modem. It is connected with the internet provider directly via the cable TV connection (coaxial cable) to provide internet, Wi-Fi and telephony.

In contrast to a combination of an external modem and a separate Wi-Fi router, a cable internet router combines both functions in a single device. This saves room, reduces energy consumption, and makes configuration especially simple.

The latest cable routers support the DOCSIS (3.0 or 3.1) standard so that they can dial in directly to the cable network of the providers. Once it has been connected, the cable router takes over the entire internet connection and distributes it seamlessly to all devices in the home network.

A router with a cable connection is ideal if you use the internet via cable TV. A cable internet router is especially suited for everyone who needs high speeds and a stable connection in day-to-day operation.

Typical use scenarios include:

• Customers with a cable contract – for instance, with Vodafone, PYÜR or Magenta.
• Households that do lots of streaming and gaming – constant bandwidths and low latencies are of utmost importance here.
• Working from home – stable connection for video conferences and large amounts of data.
• Everyday reliability – cable internet routers supply constant bandwidth and are less subject to interference than wireless solutions.

Experience shows: A cable router provides anyone who has a cable contract and values strong performance an especially stable and convenient solution for the entire home network.

When purchasing a cable router you should consider a few important criteria to select the model that best meets your needs. Keep in mind these five aspects:

• Compatibility with your provider – make sure that the router is certified for your cable provider and supports the appropriate DOCSIS standard (for gigabit rates, DOCSIS 3.1).
• Wi-Fi technology – select a model with the latest Wi-Fi, for instance, Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7, so that your devices can benefit from the highest possible speeds.
• LAN sockets – think about how many wired devices you would like to connect. Make sure you have sufficient gigabit ports and, if needed, a 2.5-gigabit port for especially fast connections.
• Additional functions – think about whether you would like to benefit from features like an integrated phone system with DECT, smart home control or Mesh functionality for seamless Wi-Fi throughout the home.
• Future security and updates – invest in a model that can keep up in the long term. A good cable internet router should receive regular updates and also be equipped for the demands of the future.

To install a cable router, use the coaxial cable to connect it with the cable socket in your home. You must also connect the device to the mains supply. After starting, the router contacts the cable provider – often, all you have to do then is wait.

Some providers require activation of the cable router for the connection: This means either calling the hotline or opening a special activation portal that automatically displays the router. Once the router has been activated, the cable provider establishes the internet connection.

That's how configuration generally works.

1. Connect (via coaxial cable) the router with the mains supply and the cable socket – the provider detects the device (e.g. via the MAC address) and checks whether it has been activated.
2. If necessary, activation via hotline or a website that opens automatically.
3. Configure the home network: Upon delivery the Wi-Fi network is secured; you can adjust the name and network key in the user interface or the app. Telephony, parental controls or smart home can also be configured there.
4. All done – the router provides internet and Wi-Fi to the entire home network.

FRITZ!Box Cable routers include a Configuration Wizard that guides you step by step through the interface or the MyFRITZ!App to make all settings.