Signing up for Verizon internet services? You may be wondering what your equipment options are. Depending on which service you choose, you have a few options that could affect your monthly or startup costs.
With Verizon Fios, you have the option to rent or purchase a router through Verizon. Monthly rental fees start at $12 per month.* The one-time fee for purchasing their Fios router starts at $199.99.*
With Verizon High-Speed Internet, their DSL service, you have the option to purchase their Gateway router for a one-time fee that starts at $29.99.*
Both services, however, also give you the option to use your own router. There are a few advantages to using your own modem and router, provided you use the right equipment. So, let’s take a look at the Verizon-compatible router for Fios and High-Speed Internet.
*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Speeds may vary. As of 06/12/19.
What are the Verizon Fios-compatible routers?
Since Verizon Fios uses a 100% fiber-optic network, the service does not use modems. Instead, it uses an Optical Network Terminal (ONT), which is essentially the fiber-optic version of a modem. So you can’t use your own modem with Verizon Fios, but you can use your own router.
Verizon says any router will work with your Verizon Fios ONT device. You will need to plug it into the ONT using an Ethernet cable and make sure the settings are switched from Coaxial to Ethernet. You may need to call Verizon to have this setting changed.
Verizon Fios speeds can range from 50 to 940 Mbps, so you don’t want to use just any router. Using one that isn’t built to handle your plan’s speeds will limit the performance in your home. Here are five routers that are compatible with Verizon Fios service and capable of supporting most or all available speed tiers.
Recommended routers for Verizon Fios service
| Router | Speed | Ethernet ports | Antennas | Wi-Fi bands |
| ASUS RT-AC68U Whole-Home Dual-Band AiMesh Router | 1.3 Gbps (5 GHz) 600 Mbps (2.4 GHz) | 4 | 3 | 5 and 2.4 GHz 802.11ac |
| Linksys AC1200+ Smart Wi-Fi Gigabit Router (EA6350) | 867 Mbps (5 GHz) 300 Mbps (2.4 GHz) | 4 | 2 | 5 and 2.4 GHz 802.11ac |
| Nighthawk® X6 AC3200 Tri-band Wi-Fi Router | 1.3 Gbps (5 GHz x 2) 600 Mbps (@.4 GHz) | 5 | 6 | Tri-Band 802.11ac |
| Tenda AC1200 Dual Band Wi-Fi Router | 867 Mbps (5 GHz) 300mbps (2.4 GHz) | 4 | 4 | 5 and 2.4 GHz 802.11ac |
| TP-Link Archer C3150 V2 MU-MIMO Gigabit Router | 2.17 Gbps (5 GHz) 1 Gbps (2.4 GHz) | 4 | 4 | 5 and 2.4 GHz 802.11ac |
Pricing and availability for these routers may vary. Additionally, they may not be the best devices for your specific needs and internet plan. Before purchasing a new router or planning to use one you already own for your Verizon Fios service, call Verizon Customer Service to verify it is compatible and appropriate for your plan.
What if I have Verizon Fios TV?
Here’s where using your own router with Verizon Fios can be an issue. Most routers will not be compatible with your Verizon Fios TV service. As a result, your channel guide, On Demand and other Verizon Fios TV functions may not work properly. Additionally, TVs connected via Fios TV One Minis may not work at all.
To ensure you have a seamless internet and TV experience, Verizon recommends you use either the Fios Advanced Wi-Fi Router (Actiontec MI424WR Rev I) or the Fios Quantum Gateway Router (Verizon G1100). Both routers are available for purchase or rental through Verizon.
What are the Verizon High-Speed Internet (DSL)-compatible modems?
Verizon’s DSL service gives you fewer options for compatible routers. Considering the low cost of purchasing a Verizon High-Speed Internet modem/router combo, it may be more cost-effective to buy theirs, unless you already own a compatible device.
Here are the Verizon-compatible routers.
- Verizon HSI Wireless Gateway
- Actiontec Verizon GT704WGB Wireless DSL Gateway
- Verizon Westell 7500 DSL Wireless Modem/Router/ Model A90-750015-07
The Verizon HSI Wireless Gateway router is available through Verizon, but you may have to find the Actiontec and Westell Gateway routers from third-party retailers such as Amazon or Best Buy.
What’s the downside to using my own router?
While using your own router can save you some money, especially with Verizon Fios service, there are a few reasons why you might want to use their official router instead.
Opting to use your own router may disqualify you for upgrades, new offers and security updates offered by Verizon. Additionally, you may not be able to get the same level of tech support you would otherwise get when using a Verizon-provided router.
When shopping for a new router or considering using one you already own for your Verizon internet service, consider the costs plus the pros and cons of renting/buying a router vs. using your own Verizon-compatible router.
Want to get the most out of your internet service?
Whether you have Verizon or another internet service provider, we’re here to help you make the most of it. To maximize your experience, check out our other articles on top routers, tips for boosting your Wi-Fi signal and more.
Shop internet plansWhat to read next
Featured articles Read more from the blog
Internet not performing as you think it should? Run a speed test and learn what your results may mean and how to address them! Read more
Apr 15, 2019
Best wireless routers of 2019
Don’t choose just any wireless router. Check out our list of the best wireless routers that’ll enhance Wi-Fi connectivity at home. Read more
Jul 22, 2019
Make a smooth move of transferring your Verizon services with this guide
Learn how you can successfully schedule your move and anticipate some fees that may show up on your next monthly bill. Read more
Apr 15, 2019
