A wired ethernet connection always provides the fastest speeds. While a wireless (Wi-Fi) connection is sometimes more convenient, it can be subject to varying speeds due to a variety of factors, including:

• Your Wi-Fi client’s, such as computer, tablet, printer, mobile device, Smart TV, distance from the router / gateway.
• Obstacles between your Wi-Fi client and router / gateway.
• Your Wi-Fi network’s security type.
• Your Wi-Fi client equipment type (802.11n / 802.11g / 802.11n).
• The number of simultaneously connected Wi-Fi clients.
• Normal Wi-Fi interference from other wireless networks or non-Wi-Fi wireless devices in the area.

The most common Wi-Fi specification in use today is 802.11n, which can operate in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz RF spectrums. Some Wi-Fi client devices may only use one, with 2.4GHz single band devices being the most common.  

It is very important to make sure to operate your router or gateway in the RF spectrum that is compatible with your Wi-Fi client devices (2.4GHz or 5GHz).

• If you have 802.11g or 802.11b client devices, you will want to make sure to use 2.4GHz.
• If you have dual band 802.11n client devices, then you may choose either SSID (2.4GHz or 5GHz) from your dual band router or gateway.
• If you only have a single band router or gateway, then you will need to use the 2.4GHz band.

It is also important to understand that older legacy Wi-Fi client devices using 802.11g or 802.11b can in fact slow down the wireless network for everybody. When possible, try to only use 802.11n client devices to optimize your wireless network’s performance.

A router is an electronic device that provides the central connections for the home network. This device directs the information in your network to the proper destination. The router is the brains of your home network and allows you to share your High Speed Internet service between all the PCs in your home. Cox Home Networking provides several different choices with different levels of functionality and price.

Here are a few of the benefits users will enjoy with Home Networking from Cox:

• Share your Internet Connection - Multiple users in your household can access the Internet at once and share photos, music, or important files.
• Connect Anywhere in the Home, Wirelessly – Break free from the wires, and connect wirelessly while on the couch, by the pool or almost anywhere in your home.
• Home Network Manager – monitor and manage your devices on your in-home Wi-Fi more easily with this free software included with Cox sold or rented Gateway modems.
• Save Money – Pay for only one Internet connection.  Also, share one printer – no need to buy one for each device in your home.

All home networking equipment purchased from Cox have the following warranties:

• One year for standalone routers
• One year for gateways purchased before to April 1, 2013
• Two years for gateways purchased on or after April 1, 2013

If the equipment fails during this time, Cox will replace the defective unit free of charge.

Cox Home Network Manager is a free tool available to customers with the purchase or rental of a Cox Gateway.  Cox Home Network Manager allows you to: 

• View your entire network remotely
• See the details of each device on your network
• Rename devices connected to your network
• Manage wireless settings
• Port Forward