Spectrum Cable and Internet

Installation Guide

Our Installation Guide

Whether you have recently moved and are looking for a cable and Internet service provider or you've already signed on with Spectrum Cable and Internet, installing your service is a top priority.

Let us walk you through the process of installing your Spectrum Cable and Internet — self-installation — and how to get the most out of your services. Learn how to use the Spectrum Self-Install Kit, setup Wi-Fi and whether you should rent or purchase equipment.

Ways to Install Cable TV & Internet

Installing your Cable TV and Internet services have never been easier. With support and videos, Spectrum offers lots of information to help you through the process. Traditionally, you can have a technician come out to your home and set up your services. However with COVID-19 and safety precautions, many people are choosing to self-install.

Depending on your preference, you can choose to:

Call in a Spectrum technician
Self-install Spectrum Cable and Internet

This guide will teach you how to self-install.

Pros and Cons of Self-Installation

Self-installing your cable TV and Internet may seem like a hassle but with information available here and on Spectrum.net, the process doesn’t have to be a headache. If you’re on the fence about whether to self-install or call in the experts, check the pros and cons list below.

Pros of self-installation:

Get all equipment delivered to you
Limit people coming into your home
No installation fee

Cons of self-installation:

No professional help & in-person troubleshooting
Your home may not be eligible
Requires some technical expertise

How to Use Spectrum Self-Install Kit

Connecting your Spectrum Internet is easier than ever with the Spectrum Self-Install Kit. Once you have signed on for Spectrum services, they will mail you a Self-Install Kit. The kit provides you with all of the equipment and cables necessary to set up your Internet service and start surfing the web.

Per their website: There’s high demand for new equipment during this national emergency. Delivery of self-install kits may take longer than expected. Set your communication preferences to receive confirmation and tracking number(s) when your equipment has shipped.

What Does the Self-Install Internet Kit Include

The kit comes complete with:

Instructions
Modem
Coax Cables
Ethernet Cable
Coax Splitter

The Self-Install Cable TV kit includes:

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

Watch this easy-to-follow video to see how to install.

How to Self-Install Internet

The Spectrum Self-Install Kit can be set-up in three 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 Spectrum Cable

Similar to the Spectrum Self-Install Internet Kit, you can self-install your cable service by ordering equipment and following the installation process.

Connect your Spectrum Receiver
Activate your Spectrum Receiver

1 Connect your Spectrum Receiver

Connect your Coax Cable to your receiver and the other end to the cable outlet
Connect the HDMI Cable to your receiver and the other end to your TV
Connect the Power Cord to the receiver and to the electrical outlet. The receiver will turn on automatically
Insert batteries into your Remote
Turn on your TV and select the HDMI source using either INPUT or SOURCE on the Remote
The receiver will begin downloading a firmware update

2 Activate your Spectrum Receiver

Now you can activate your modem. Go to Spectrum.net/selfinstall from your computer or mobile phone
Follow the on-screen instructions

How to Self-Install Spectrum Wi-Fi

Connecting to your wireless network is easy. If your equipment is activated (Modem and Wireless Router) you can begin

Connect a Device to your Wireless Router
Change your Wi-Fi Name and Password
Optimize your Wi-Fi Network

1 Connect a Device to your Wireless Router

Find your Spectrum Wi-Fi network name (SSID) and password on the back of your Spectrum Router
Open the wireless settings on your device (computer, phone, etc.) and select the right 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz network
Enter in the default password from the back of the router

2 Change your Wi-Fi Name and Password

Spectrum recommends changing your Wi-Fi name and password for added security.

Find your specific router model here and follow instructions to change your Wi-Fi name and password
Add 5 GHz and 2.5 GHz to the end of your new Wi-Fi name to identify each network

3 Optimize your Wi-Fi Network

For optimal service, place your router in a central location away from water, metal and other appliances
View your Wi-Fi name and password in your Spectrum account

Renting vs Buying Equipment

Spectrum rents out all its Cable TV and Internet equipment and while it is on lease, it remains the property of Spectrum. If you are thinking of upgrading, downgrading, or cancelling your Spectrum service, all equipment must be returned. Here are the costs of equipment rental with Spectrum.

Device	Fee
TV receiver with DVR & remote	$7.99 / month
Self-install kit	$9.99 / one-time fee
Modem equipment rental	Included
Wireless router	$5.00 / month

Spectrum Installation Guide Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I get Spectrum in my area?

Spectrum offers services across the United States, to find prices in your area, please check here

What is the Spectrum customer service number?

You can reach Spectrum's customer service at 1-800-892-4357

How do I access free Spectrum WiFi hotspots?

You can follow step-by-step instructions on connecting to free Spectrum WiFi hotspots on this page.

What is Spectrum Internet Assist?

Internet Assist is Spectrum's budget option for internet services. You can learn more at this page.

How can I get help with self-installation?

You can reference Spectrum's support and self-installation help here.