Optimum Cable TV & Internet Installation Guide

Installation Guide

Optimum Installation Guide Overview

If you’ve recently signed up for your Optimum by Altice USA cable TV or Internet connection, then you might be thinking about how to install and set up your services. Thankfully, all you need is the Optimum self-installation kit. With this kit and easy-to-follow guide, you'll be able to quickly set up your equipment and connect all of your wireless devices.

Installing Optimum is incredibly easy, and it involves connecting a few components and logging in to enjoy fast Internet and superior download speeds. You can make use of our Optimum self-installation guide to set up your cable TV and an Internet connection, and you will have blazing fast Internet speed and the chance to watch your favorite channels in no time at all.

This guide includes information about using the self-installation kit, setting up cable TV and Internet, and also tips to help you decide between buying and renting the equipment. Follow these steps, and you'll complete the activation process before you know it - without the hassle of someone coming into your home for professional installation.

Ways to Install TV & Internet from Optimum

When it comes to cable TV and Internet installation, there’s no one right way. Our useful guide and supplementary videos on Optimum’s website make setting up your connection a breeze.

There are two ways you can go about installing your cable TV and Internet connection from Optimum:

Calling an Optimum technician to install the connection
Using the self-installation guide to install the connection on your own

If you select the first option, a technician would make a home visit and complete the installation process. Otherwise, you can easily take care of the installation on your own by following our guide.

Pros and Cons of Self-Install for Optimum

You might be intimidated by the idea of self-installation, especially if you have zero experience with cable TV connections, Internet, modems, and routers. Don’t worry at all, because we bring you a step-by-step guide that’s free from any complex or difficult steps. Moreover, there is no complicated wiring to take care of, and you can always contact Optimum’s help desk if you need any assistance.

Apart from this, there’s also a comprehensive checklist and instruction manual in the box, so that you know how to set up your new connection. With this information, you’ll no longer find it difficult to set up your cable TV and an Internet connection, and you’ll also save a lot of time.

Since you’re still contemplating whether to consult an expert or do it yourself, here’s a complete list of pros and cons to help you make the decision.

Pros of self-installation:

The equipment is delivered to your home
No clearing up your schedule for the technician
No installation charges
No need to let anyone enter your home

Cons of self-installation:

You may require more assistance than expected
It may take more time for some people
Assistance is only limited to phone or chat
Your home may not be eligible

How to Use Optimum Self-install Kit

For the self-installation process, you only need some introductory technical knowledge. The rest is taken care of by the self-installation kit. If you haven’t gotten your self-install kit already, you can sign up for it to be delivered within a few working days. The kit has all the required devices and peripherals you need to install your cable TV and Internet connection.

What Does the Self-Install Internet Kit Include?

The self-installation kit consists of the following components:

Instruction manual
Cable Modem
Power cord
Coaxial cable
Ethernet cable
Coaxial cable splitter

How to Self-Install Optimum Internet and Wi-Fi

Self-installing your Optimum Internet and Wi-Fi has become much easier, all thanks to the self-install kit and our self-installation guide. Keep reading to learn how you can install a new Internet connection and set up your Wi-Fi, whether you shift to a new home or get a new connection.

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

1 Connect Modem

Connect your coaxial cable to the cable outlet and ensure the other end isn’t connected to anything.
Connect the open end of your coaxial cable to the back of your new modem.
Plug your modem’s power cord into the back of the modem, and then plug the other end of the power cord into an electrical wall outlet.
The modem will turn on; wait for the light marked ‘Online’ to turn from flashing to solid.
This may take up to 10 minutes.
You’ll know your modem is ready when four lights turn green and a fifth light begins flashing amber. This may take a few minutes. Once this lighting sequence occurs, you’re ready to move on to the next step.

2 Connect Modem to Computer or Wi-Fi Router

Take one end of the Ethernet cable provided and plug it into the yellow port on your modem, then connect the other end to your computer’s Ethernet port.
If you’re using a Wi-Fi router, connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your wireless router.

3 Activate Modem Online

Open a web browser and go to install.optimum.com.
You’ll need your 13-digit account number to register online, which you can find in any of these places: Optimum bill, Packing slip, or Optimum store receipt.
If you’re an Optimum TV customer you can also find your account number on Explore Optimum on Channel 900.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the modem registration process. This process may take a few minutes.

How to Self-Install Optimum Cable TV

The cable TV self-installation kit from Optimum brings you everything you require for setting up your cable TV connection. You won’t even have to wait for a technician to come and install it. With the self-installation kit, you can set up your services at any time. Plus, you also have Optimum’s technical support for assistance. Since the Optimum cable TV self-installation kit comes with its own equipment, you just have to follow two basic steps:

Connecting your Optimum Receiver
Activating your Optimum Receiver

1 Connecting your Optimum Receiver

Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the receiver and the other to the cable outlet.
Connect the HDMI cable to the receiver and the other to your TV set.
Connect the power cord to the receiver and plug it into the electrical outlet.
The receiver will turn on once it receives power.
Put the batteries inside the remote control.
Turn on the TV and press the INPUT or SOURCE button on the remote control to choose the HDMI source.
The receiver will start downloading the latest firmware automatically.
Wait a few minutes for the download to finish.

2 Activating your Optimum Receiver

Log on to selfinstall.optimum.net from your laptop, phone, or tablet.
Follow the provided instructions to quickly activate your Optimum Receiver.

How to Set up Your Wireless Network

Connecting to your wireless network is stress-free. Once you activate your equipment (Modem and Wireless Router) follow these steps.

Locate Your Wi-Fi Name and Password
Connect Device to Your Wireless Router
Optimize your Wi-Fi Network

1 Locate Your Wi-Fi Name and Password

Locate your in-home Wi-Fi network name and password. You’ll find the Wi-Fi network name, also known as an SSID, and password/pin on the back of your router.
If you’re replacing an existing router, it’s recommended you use your current Wi-Fi network name and password/pin to keep your devices connected automatically.

2 Connect Device to Your Wireless Router

To connect to the Internet, go to the Wi-Fi settings on your computer or device, select from the list the default Wi-Fi network name found on the label of your new router and then enter your password/pin.
Close any pop-up windows if they appear.

3 Optimize your Wi-Fi Network

Open your web browser and go to optimum.net/router and follow the on-screen instructions to set up or reconnect your wireless network.
Make sure to write your Wi-Fi network name and password/pin down and keep it in a safe place for easy reference.
You’re now connected to the Internet.

Renting vs Buying Equipment

When you opt for an Optimum connection, you can choose between buying or renting the devices and equipment. If you have another existing modem, it may or may not be compatible with Optimum. Let’s have a look at the rental fees associated with the equipment, so that you can make a better decision.

Device	Fee
TV receiver with DVR & remote	$11 / month
Self-install kit	Included
Modem equipment rental	$10 per month
Smart router	Free with leased modem
Unreturned DVR	$345
Unreturned wireless router	$80

Optimum Cable Installation Guide Frequently Asked Questions

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

How can I find out if Optimum is available in my area?

Optimum has services in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania. If you are moving here, you can fill out the form on this link.

How can I get in touch with Optimum?

You can reach out to Optimum’s customer service department by calling +1-866-218-3259.

What is an Optimum Smart Router?

A smart router is provided to Optimum Online customers who have leased an Optimum modem. It’s a home networking router that helps you manage your router settings from anywhere.

Should I buy my own modem for Optimum?

You can use your own modem with Optimum, or you can buy it if you don’t have one. It’ll help you receive the high-speed Optimum Internet that’s promised by them. You also have the option of buying or renting the Optimum Internet modem.

Does Optimum offer new customer deals?

Free installation: If you order online, Optimum will waive the installation fee for select packages and bundles.
Pop-up deals: When you click on Optimum’s site, a page will appear offering $10 off your first monthly payment if you enter your email address and order online.