There are over 15 DSL modems that are compatible with Qwest Internet service. Most of the compatible modems are manufactured by Actiontec and ZyXEL. However, a few are also manufactured by Cisco, Motorola and Arescom. In selecting which modem you want to use with your Qwest high-speed Internet service, you first must decide whether you require a modem, a modem/router, or a gateway.
Modem, Routers and Gateways
You can elect to use a modem, a wireless or non-wireless modem/router, or a gateway to connect your Qwest high-speed Internet service. A modem is an electronic device used to convert the analog DSL Internet signal, sent through your phone line, into a digital signal your computer can understand. In sending information from your computer to the Internet, the modem also converts your computer's digital signal to an analog signal that can be transmitted through your phone line. You cannot have an Internet connection without a modem. A modem/router is a modem that can be used to connect multiple devices to the Internet via a shared Internet signal. A gateway is a device used to translate between two systems using different communication protocols. It essentially functions as a modem/router but also does more, including letting people connect with network computers remotely.
Actiontec
Most of the DSL modems branded for use with Qwest high-speed Internet service are manufactured by Actiontec. There are, for example, the Actiontec PK5000, Q1000 and M1000, which are all wireless DSL modem/routers that are compatible with Qwest Internet service. The Actiontec GT701, 1520 and 1524 are each non-wireless DSL modem routers that can be used with Qwest Internet. The Actiontec GT701 WG is, as of June 2011, the only Actiontec wireless DSL Gateway approved for use with Qwest Internet.
ZyXEL
The second leading manufacturer of Qwest DSL modems is the ZyXEL Communications Corporation. There are three wireless modem/routers, one non-wireless modem/router and one wireless DSL gateway manufactured by ZyXEL that are branded for use with Qwest. The ZyXEL Q1000z, FR1000z and 270X are the wireless modem/router options. The ZyXEL Q100 is the non-wireless modem / router option. And the ZyXEL PK5000z is a wireless DSL gateway.
Other Compatible Modems
Other modems compatible with Qwest Internet service include the Motorola 3347, which is a wireless modem/router; the Cisco 675 and 678 modems; and Arescom NetDSL 800 modem. Cisco no longer manufactures the 675 and 678 modems, but if you have a used Cisco 675 or 678 it can be used with Qwest Internet.
References
- University of Arkansas; "Network Hardware"; Rhonda Bullard
- Qwest: Modems
- Cisco: End of Sale
Resources
- Actiontec: Home Page
- Zyxel: Product Overview