Connect Xfinity internet by yourself

Setting up internet on your own can be daunting, but most providers like Xfinity now offer an app to walk you through the self-installation process. Xfinity provides a gateway, which is generally a modem and router all-in-one device. Most are plug-and-play and the app gives precise directions on setup.

Depending on your location, you may be able to opt for Xfinity self-installation, which reduces your setup costs. Xfinity will ship you a self-install kit for $14.99 (though sometimes they run promotions when they’re free) and say it takes about two hours to get your internet set up.

Ready to get started? Here’s how to set up Xfinity internet using their self-install kit:

Setting up Xfinity internet with xFi Gateway

If you have Xfinity internet with an xFi Gateway modem/router, follow these steps to get set up:

On your phone:

1. Download the Xfinity xFi app for free in the iOS App Store or Android Google Play.
2. Follow the step-by-step prompts in the app to install your xFi Gateway modem/router and set up your Xfinity home Wi-Fi network.

Self-installing without a mobile phone:

1. Connect the cables. Place your xFi Gateway in a central location near a cable wall outlet. Connect one end of the coax cable to the Cable In/RF In port on your Gateway and the other end to your cable wall outlet. Twist until they’re finger-tight.
2. Connect the power. Plug the power cord into the back of your Gateway and then into the electrical outlet. Wait until the Power, US/DS and Online lights stop flashing and are solid for one minute.
3. Connect with Wi-Fi. Wait for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GH Wi-Fi lights to start flashing. Once they’re flashing, find the Network Name (SSID) and Password (Security Key) on the sticker on the side, back or bottom of your Gateway. The name should be listed as either Home-XXXX or XFSETUP-XXXX.
4. Enable Wi-Fi on your devices. Access the Wi-Fi settings, select your Network Name (SSID) and enter your password (Security Key) Windows users may be prompted to enter a PIN instead, which can be found on a separate sticker on your Gateway.
5. Activate your service. Once you’re connected, visit Xfinity’s registration page and follow the prompts to verify your account, activate your service and set up a new home network name and password.

Once activation is complete (your Gateway may reboot), you can start enjoying home Wi-Fi with your Xfinity internet service.

Setting up Xfinity internet using your own modem and router

Xfinity allows you to use your internet equipment instead of their Gateway. If you choose to purchase your own Xfinity-compatible router, follow the instructions with your purchased equipment to set up your internet service.

Troubleshooting your service

If your connection isn’t that strong

Place your xFi Gateway at least three feet from the ground and avoid cramped space. You’ll want to place it in a central location without walls or furniture blocking the signal.

If an issue is affecting multiple devices

First, check your apps and websites to make sure it’s a network issue, not a specific app or website issue. Visit the Xfinity Status Center Outage Map to check for local outages. Confirm that all cables are plugged in. Unplug your equipment, wait a minute and plug it back in. If you’re still having issues, contact Xfinity customer service.

FAQs on self-installation

See what Xfinity customers have to say about their service: