Motorola - MB8611 32x8 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem 2.5 GB Ethernet - Black

If you live in an older house - with thick walls, you likely will need to buy your own modem and router. This is something I've had to do ever since wireless internet devices existed, as no matter which ISP you have, typically they give you (whether for free or for a monthly fee) a modem/router combo that will only work in small apartments or new homes with very thin walls. AND every few years you will need to update these devices. I bought this one in 2020 and still in 2024 it's considered one of the top modems you can buy. When we all started working from home I found then that my system was a PROBLEM... In addition to this I also purchased a MESH router system - in 2020 I bought Deco M9 Plus but now upgraded to a more robust system. Thankfully I didn't need to change THIS MODEM because the routers have the necessary speed 2.5GB Ethernet, that goes with the new routers I purchased this year. I've had this for 2 years and it's still going strong. I did update my routers in 2024 from 5G to 6 + 6E routers. Working from home requires more robust communications. I also tend to switch ISP's every couple of years to get the best price offers and (doing the math) to make it equal to what you save from NOT using the rented routers, you should look at what this costs in comparison to what the ISP charges you for renting their modem/routers. In my history of buying my own modems that usually works out to about the 2 year time when your contract ends and they raise your basic internet price (I've never had cable) - and with that - it's perfect for when it's time to make a switch. I've had no performance issues with this and recommend it for the compatible ISP you may have! We use three VOIP landline phones - for 2 family members PLUS a third one for a home office phone. Additionally our family has a few smart TVs, we use smart home devices to control outside lights and an outdoor security camera system. Our routers are both ethernet connected, wireless and use powerline connectivity too. This modem - the connection with the ISP has to be good enough, and it handles it all! HIGHLY recommended. The only reason I may replace it is when it's time to change ISP providers as in our area of the two choices, Xfinity and FIOS, only the first one is compatible with this modem. If I can negotiate the right price with the ISP provider, I'll stick with this one and hope that I can do that when the time comes. This has been great and I really don't want to change if I can avoid it.

I’ve had this modem for 2 1/2 weeks and haven’t dropped the signal since setting it up. I Was looking for a really good modem, did some research and ended up getting this Motorola for a couple reasons, I like the interface it was easy to use/setup and also future proofing with the 2.5gb speeds while most other modems are 1gb at best.

Designed and programmed my top engineers! When setting the "Acquire Downstream Channel", this modem does not have to reboot, rather there's a stable OS running with the firmware allowing the chipset to require, digitally, the set frequency, rapidly. Unit is stable, lots of data in the charts & reports making diagnostic efforts simpler. Manual lists what certain situations indicate for trouble, one can be more informed one calling their Internet service provider!

Long story short it's the only modem I had with Xfinity that delivered the 1Gig speeds that pay. I previously had the more expensive ARRIS SURFboard Docsis 3.1 and Netgear Nighthawk, both under delivered. This Motorola Docis3.1 Modem paired with the NETGEAR RAX50S AX5400 ROUTER is the best internet combination money can buy!

My opinion, this Motorola 8611 is the absolute best modem only (no Wi-Fi or Voice) available right now in this price range. I tested both the competing Arris S33 & Netgear CM1000 and they both under delivered in down and upload speeeds compared this modem with Comcast Xfinity service. Others may have issues if they’re running multiple splitters. About 5 years ago, I had Comcast run a direct (as direct as you can get) line to my cable wall outlet. They also installed a booster (I think that’s what it’s called) on my line at no additional cost. I pay for Blast Internet, 600gb down & 20gb up plan. Speed tests are showing 825gb down & 29gb up. I have this modem paired with a 3yr old Eero mesh router set up. I’m running 5 total Eeros and speeds are fantastic throughout my house. Of course they’re faster the closer you get to the wired base. The Modem was quite simple to pair using the Xfinity app. I just tapped add new modem and followed the instructions. It took a total about 15 mins for the modem to be fully paired. Then I decided to restart my router and was up and running 5 mins later. I’d recommend NOT calling Comcast to activate the modem and use the app instead. Overall, I would recommend this modem to anyone that does not want to pay the rental fee (I’ve never rented, so I cannot speak to the speeds of the rental device) and is looking to increase speeds that meet the DOCSIS 3.1 standard.

I ordered two of these and noticed I received a 2021 and a 2023 model. Is there a difference in speed/power etc between the two models? They have different serial numbers and max codes and everything, but are both MB8611 modems. Any feedback would be great before I open them. I want to know if I should exchange one or not.

Works very good no issues at all, no dropped connection getting the full speed from my Xfinity plan using ASUS gaming router. Overall is not running hot even though for years I have setup with small 5W desk fan to keep cool both the modem and the router my old router was still working after 7 years just was outdated. I hope this new one will last for quite a time with no issues.

Haven't had any real issues so far. The modem works well and I've had no issues with my xfinity internet. The setup was easy and quick.