Cox Communications Installation Guide

Modem and Cable Box Guide

Our Installation Guide

As a leading cable and internet provider, millions of Americans rely on Cox Communications to connect to the digital world. Like many cable companies, Cox only operates in a few states. But, if you've recently moved to one of these states, Cox Internet services may be the perfect fit for your needs. You can simply right pack select the best package that suits your needs and install it. Moving can be stressful, but with Cox, choosing an internet plan and getting your wifi router and other equipment setup will be a breeze.

Installing Cox Internet is easier than ever. Recently, Cox launched its Easy Connect self-installation kits. With these kits, you can install Cox Internet in under 30 minutes. Here's what you need to know to get started with self-installing Cox services.

Ways to install Cox Communications

Once you choose your preferred Internet package and purchase your service, you have two options for installing your Internet and/or cable service:

Cox Easy Connect
Cox Pro Connect

Moving is already a tough and complicated experience. The pressure of finding the right internet provider can add to those stresses. Companies like Cox provide a wealth of Internet, phone, home security and cable packages. Finding the perfect package or bundle isn't always easy, but SmartMove is here to help. Using our SmartMove Internet finder, SmartMove connects you with the best providers in your area, free of charge.

Self-installation vs. professional installation

Cox Easy Connect is a free self-installation kit that comes with everything you need to set up your Internet services by yourself. This includes all necessary cables, an easy-to-use smartphone app and a wealth of online tools.

Cox Pro Connect requires a trained technician to come to your home during a specified block of time. This professional will handle the entire installation process for you. However, the Cox Pro Connect service isn't free. Internet installation fees can vary by package and location.

In the past, Cox's installation process was almost entirely handled by trained technicians. Today, Cox provides a library of manuals, instructions and online guidance for self-installation. While self-installation may sound intimidating, it's incredibly easy. Simply follow the steps below, and you can self-install your Cox package in less than 30 minutes.

The Cox Communications easy connect self-installation kit

That's everything you need to perform an installation. Remember, you can still purchase (or rent) an upgraded modem or gateway from Cox or third-party sellers. When you are ready to get started, make sure you have your smartphone handy, the Cox app is extremely useful. Their virtual assistant, Oliver, can provide tips during installation. You may also need the app during the final installation step. The app is not necessary for the installation, but it is helpful.

We also recommend checking your speed using the Cox speed test. This will help you identify any issues. If your speed is significantly lower than advertised, be sure to reach out to support.

What Does the Self-Install Internet Kit Include

Every Cox Easy Connect self-installation kit comes with the following:

Coaxial cable, sometimes referred to as a Coax
Power cord
Ethernet cable
Gateway device
Instruction manual
Cable filter
Telephone cord (possibly)

How to Self-Install Internet

The Cox Self-Install Kit can be set-up in these easy steps.

Connect Modem
Connect Modem to Computer or Wi-Fi Router
Activate Modem Online

1 Connect Modem

Connect one end of your coax cable to your Modem and the other end to your cable outlet.
Connect the power cord to your Modem and plug the other end to the electrical outlet.
Wait for the Modem to connect to the network. When the 'Online Status' light is solid, that means it's connected.

2 Connect Modem to Computer or Wi-Fi Router

Now that your Modem is set up, you can connect the Ethernet Cable from the Modem to your computer
If you are using Wi-Fi, connect the other end of the Ethernet Cable to your wireless router

3 Activate Modem Online

Now you can activate your Modem. Go to Spectrum.net/selfinstall from your computer or mobile phone
Click 'Get Started' and follow instructions
Once you're activated, don't forget to create a username and manage your account on Spectrum.net

Watch This Video About Getting Started

How to Self-Install Cox Communications

A step-by-step guide to installing Cox Communications

Identify your equipment
Turn off Internet-connected devices
Find the right spot for your gateway/modem
Plugin your modem/gateway

1 Identify your equipment

You can pick order your Cox Easy Connect kit online or pick up at a nearby store. If you order it online, you may have to pay for shipping costs. Once you have your kit, take the equipment out of the box and double-check to make sure you have the required materials. You should have the following things:

Coaxial cable
Power cord
Ethernet cord cable
Cable filter
Instruction manual
Cox gateway device/modem

If you are missing any materials, contact Cox support or revisit the store to ask for help.

2 Turn off Internet-connected devices

While your Internet-connected devices won't experience any damage from staying plugged in during the installation process, they may have issues picking up the Internet signal at first. It is recommended that you turn them off during this process. Once the installation is completed, you can turn on and check to see if they can find the connection.

3 Find the right spot for your gateway/modem

Placing your modem in the right spot is a big component of a strong Internet connection. Ideally, you want to choose a location that is a central point to your home. Often, this is a living room or bedroom, but try to choose a room that's relatively open. You don't want to put your modem in a small closet with closed-off walls. This may impact the WiFi signals from reaching other rooms at full strength.

Also, keep in mind you need to choose an area close to a coaxial outlet and a power outlet. Typically, modern homes have a few different coaxial outlets. You should have one in the main room and, perhaps, a few in the bedrooms.

4 Plugin your modem/gateway

Once you have selected an area, take the coaxial cable provided in your Easy Connect Kit and screw it into the back of your modem. Next, screw the other end of the cable into the coaxial outlet. Avoid screwing the cable too tightly. It will make it difficult to unscrew if you need to move the modem in the future. Finally, plug the provided power cable into the back of the modem and then into a power outlet.

Once your coaxial cable and power cable are plugged into the modem and their respective outlets, turn the device on. From here, you will follow the steps below depending on the type of equipment you chose (i.e., gateway, non-WiFi modem or phone modem).

Watch This Video About Getting Started

Self-installing a Cox non-WiFi modem (Arris CM8200)

Modems are non-WiFi-enabled devices. You will need to plug your computer, laptop or Smart TV directly into the modem using the Ethernet cable provided to use the Internet.

Wait 5 minutes
Ensure the "Online" light is solid green
Connect the ethernet cable

1 Wait 5 minutes

The Cox Easy Connect Modem is the Arris Touchstone CM8200. To finish the installation process with the Arris CM8200, follow the instructions below. Wait 5 minutes for the modem to fully boot up

2 Ensure the "Online" light is solid green

The Online light is the fourth and final light on the modem

3 Connect the ethernet cable

Put one end of the cable in the modem
Put the other end into your device
You should hear a click each time

See the account activation section below

Self-installing a Cox WiFi gateway (Technicolor CGM4141, Arris TG1682 or Technicolor CGM4331)

Gateways are modem and router combination devices. They allow you to both use ethernet cables to connect to the Internet as well as provide WiFi throughout your home. Cox currently provides three separate gateway devices in Easy Connect kits. You can choose your gateway in-store, and the gateway you receive varies based on location, packages and availability.

Follow these instructions for WiFi gateways:
Connect devices to WiFi.

1 Follow these instructions for WiFi gateways:

You may have received any of the following gateways:

Wait 10 minutes for the modem to fully boot up.
Ensure the "Internet" light is solid.

2 Connect devices to WiFi.

Check the sticker on the bottom of the gateway.
Find the network name (SSID) and the password.
Use those to connect your devices.
See the account activation section below.

Activating your Cox account

The final step for all three modems/gateways is to activate your Cox account.

If you experience an error, issue or equipment malfunction? You can reach out to Cox Communications using any of the following methods:

Telephone: 1 (800) 234-3993

Online chat

Local store finder

Follow the steps below to start using your Cox services:

Information
Visit www.cox.com/activate.	You can also call 1–800–234–3993.
Click "Next" when it verifies your setup	Note: if you experience an issue, use the live chat feature.
Enter your address, phone number and other details.	Check "All my equipment is installed at my Address."
Review the Privacy policy and choose "I Accept."	Click Activate.
Wait until the activation process is completed.	Once the process is completed, click "Register Now."

Cox Installation Guide Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your frequently asked questions about Cox Cable and Internet.

Can I get Cox Communications in my area?

Cox Communications is a cable and internet service provider (ISP) that serves Arkansas, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Virginia.

What is the Cox Communications customer service number?

To reach Cox Communications, you can call their toll-free number: (800) 234-3993. They can answer all your questions about Cox high-speed internet access, cable issues, and even activation of a new phone service.

How fast are Cox Communications’ Internet speeds?

Cox Communications’ fastest and best internet service offers speeds up to 940 mbps.

How can I get help with Cox self-installation?

The best way to get assistance with self-installing Cox Communications’ internet and cable TV is to call customer support at (800) 234-3993. Their tech support team will be happy to assist with troubleshooting and resolving any issues you may encounter.