ARRIS Surfboard SBG6580-2 8x4 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem/Wi-Fi N600 (N300 2.4Ghz + N300 5GHz) Dual Band Router - Retail Packaging Black (570763-034-00)

So far, I am totally impressed with the ARRIS SURFboard SBG6580-2 modem! Activation through Comcast (Via the self-activation site) went better than I expected. Upon my first attempt, as the modem was being recognized by Comcast, the signal suddenly dropped and I had to start all over again. At my second attempt, everything went smoothly and I was notified that my modem, was now activated. Yeah!! Note to Comcast customers, have your account number along with your phone number ready, in order to complete the self-activation methods.Results: Rental (ARRIS TG1682G) -Ping 12 and above--Download speed: 70 to 80 Mbs, at high peaks (PM) and 110 t0 120 Mbs at low peaks (AM).VSARRIS SURFboard SBG6580-2 -Ping 6 and above--Upload/Download speed(s): Similar but with one notable difference, signal strength remainsimpressively strong.*Will update if there are any changes.

Cable modem/routers are new to me. I've always had DSL, but just recently switched to Xfinity due to faster speed/less $$. I checked with Xfinity first to make sure the modem/router was compatible with their service, even though comments here and on the Internet said it would. They verified the product and I installed it as instructed in the packaging. Once service is acquired, I simply connected my computer to one of the ports with Ethernet and configured the modem/router. I had to go to Xfinity website as instructed first to activate the modem/router. After that, I simply ran my Ethernet cables to my 8 port gigabit TP Link TL-SG1008D unmanaged switch, rebooted my system and all was good. I then accessed the modem/router setup page to configure my wi-fi settings. System was back in service within 20 minutes of my time. Not too bad.I placed the modem/router in a center hall closet in my house to see how the wi-fi would work. Basically moved the previous setting 50 feet from where it was prior and the signal now will cover our entire home. No noticeable drop in wi-fi service at either end of our home (3400 sq.ft) and I need to use a Verizon repeater to use our cell phones, which also is much better now. If it matters, ATT could only get us 3mbs d/l and .40mps u/l so going to a 60mbs d/l and 7mbs u/l is a HUGE improvement. The closet location has vent to the attic and under the house so it stays cool year round and I don't anticipate any heat related problems for the modem.As for the lights on the modem/router, I don't care, can't see them behind a closed door. :) Although I don't think they're as bright as someone mentioned if you had it in the open area. However, if you placed it by your TV and looked at it all the time, I can see where it might be bothersome.Right now I'm happy. I have Ethernet throughout the home and have 2 destops, 1 laptop, solar array, DirecTV, printer, Smart TV on CAT5e and 5 wireless phone/tablet/Roku and it works just fine.

I bought this item because of the price, the reviews and because they market it as working with Comcast Xfinity. It IS a good price, especially since it is a modem and router, however I should have read the reviews closer. After a week or so of use I began experiencing frequent drops in internet service because the unit was rebooting. I contacted support and they took me through the steps of assigning a channel to the the 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies, rather than being set to Auto and competing with other WiFi sources in the area. I thought "Great. That will take care of the issue." But after some time it continued. Calling again I got the tech who was probably in training because, though very nice, was reading from the protocol materials. Never really a good sign. He said they would replace it, and though I was under warranty I would either have to send my unit in and wait 5 to 7 seven business days after they received it to get a new one for free OR pay $9.50, $15.50 or $35 for them to send a replacement first with varying times of transit. That's when the verbal wrestling match started. He didn't relent. I asked to speak to a supervisor. We wrestled, all the while through both matches I reminded them I'm still under warranty. After reiterating many times their return policy the supervisor steps away for a moment and comes back to say that because I'm under warranty they will now replace the unit, sending a new unit first and waiving shipping costs. I was quick to say that's what a warranty is supposed to be. While on hold the last time though I looked back at the Amazon reviews more closely seeing comments that even though the product is marketed as working with Comcast Xfinity many users have had difficulties similar to what I was experiencing. While still on the line I begin looking for a replacement. I was transferred back to the original support person to take care of the shipping, etc. and we get to the point where he asks me for my credit card information to insure they will get their product back (and I am fully committed to what is most likely false advertising and/or a bad product). We are at an impasse, while I look at my original purchase date to see if I can return it to Amazon. I ask to put the replacement on hold, hang up, continue looking for a new product and contact Amazon to begin the return process.I should also mention that I found out in an earlier call to Arris customer service, prior to experiencing the cut out issue, that even though the product is marketed as "dual band" it is not "dual band concurrent," meaning you either have to have it set to 2.4 OR 5 GHz. It does not broadcast both at the same time and therefore you cannot go back and forth easily depending on strength of signal and/or proximity to the device. More misleading marketing.Lengthy, yes but I think important to know what you are getting into with the product and the company. Arris and their product get one star. Amazon get 5 stars for taking it back.