Optimum self-installation guide

How to self-install your own Optimum internet

Optimum takes most of the guesswork out of setting up your home’s internet connection. As long as your home is already set up with a wall jack for your devices to connect to, the process is entirely DIY. There are just a few steps to follow for a successful Optimum self-install. 

Purchase Optimum internet

Depending on your service area, Optimum has multiple internet packages rated by speed. Regardless of the package you choose, Optimum’s download speeds are some of the fastest around. Speeds vary between 100 and 940 Mbps. To determine how much internet you need, check out the Allconnect how to purchase internet page. Once you’ve ordered service, wait for the Optimum self-installation kit to arrive. If you don’t want to wait for an Optimum internet setup package to be shipped, you may be able to request to pick one up at an Optimum store near you.

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Setting up your Optimum compatible modem

Find your Coax cable connection for modem setup

Connectivity typically enters your home through a coaxial outlet. Look for a coax wall jack with a round connector. A coax cable connects from the wall outlet or jack to the cable modem. You’ll need to locate the coax wall jack to start the Optimum modem setup. 

Optimum modem set up or your own modem

Once you know where the coax wall jack is, it’s time to unbox the equipment for an Optimum modem setup. Optimum provides everything you need to get the best internet connectivity in your home. Leasing a modem for $10/mo. also includes a free smart router and one free Wi-Fi extender to reach areas in your home with weaker signals. 

You’ll sometimes find all-in-one devices that work as both modem and router. However, Optimum keeps them separate. If you’re wondering why you need the two pieces of equipment in the box, the modem serves as the gateway and the router transmits connectivity throughout your home wirelessly. 

Here’s how to connect the modem:

• Connect the coax cable to the wall jack and back of modem.
• Plug in the power cord to the back of the modem.
• Plug the cord into the electrical wall outlet.
• Plug the Ethernet cable from the port at the back of the modem to a device of your choice, such as a laptop. This step is optional. If you plan on using a wifi router, the ethernet cable will plug into the router instead of a computer or device.
• Power on the device.
• Wait a few minutes for the device to cycle.
• The modem is ready when four lights turn a solid green and the fifth light begins flashing in an amber color.
• Your home is now ready for a wired connection using an Ethernet cable. To add wireless connectivity, you’ll need to move on to the Optimum router set up.

If you’re wondering if you could use your own modem, the responses are mixed. Optimum customer service states you can’t use your own. However, users on Reddit boards say they were able to successfully use a third-party modem. Using your own modem may require some technical knowledge to set it up properly. If you’d like to avoid the $10 monthly rental fee, trying to install your own modem may be worth the effort. 

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Optimum router setup and connection to modem 

The Optimum router setup is the next step. You’ll need the router so devices can connect to your home network wirelessly. Here are the steps to follow:

• Make sure the modem is set up and working properly. Four lights should be solid green and the fifth should flash in an amber color.
• Connect the yellow Ethernet cable from the back of the modem to the back of the router.
• Connect the router’s power cord and plug it into a wall outlet.
• If the front power light doesn’t automatically turn on, press the power button on the back of the device.
• Wait a few minutes for the two router lights to flash green together, signaling the router is ready. 

You may be able to use your own wireless router with Optimum’s modem. However, the ISP doesn’t provide support or troubleshooting for third-party devices. Follow the directions provided with the router to connect to the Optimum modem. 

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Connect your devices to your wireless network

Once the modem and router are set up you can connect your devices wirelessly. The network’s name and password are located on a label at the back of the router. Most routers come with a long string of characters for the SSID and password, making it difficult to recognize your home network or remember your password. You could always change the information by logging in to your router. To protect your privacy, don’t choose a password that’s too easy to figure out. 

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Optimum activate your internet connection

The last step to complete in the self-installation process is an Optimum activate. Internet service won’t work until you complete the process. Activation registers your modem and router, allowing you to use your home network freely. To activate your service:

• Go to install.optimum.com
• Enter your 13-digit account number, found on your bill, the packing slip that came with the package or on the Optimum store receipt.
• Once you’ve activated the network, you’re done.

The bottom line

Optimum provides high-speed internet service for an affordable price. Renting equipment costs $10/mo., but includes a modem, wireless router and range extender. It’s a good value for the monthly fee. Optimum does not lock customers into long-term contracts for better flexibility. Canceling service is possible without penalty. It’s just as simple to install service yourself as it is to cancel it.

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