Question 1

I am a novice in all things electronic, so I am going to ask a dumb question.  Can I simply unhook the cables from the modem I am renting from Comcast; re-hook the cables to this one from Newegg, and expect things to run normally?

Accepted Answer

No.  Every network device, from your cable modem to your tablet to your smartphone, has what is called a MAC address.  It is unique to that particular piece of hardware, and it is how each device is identified on the internet.   Think of it like a telephone number so that the software that runs the internet knows where to send data intended for your device.   In order for your modem to function with your internet service provider or ISP (in this case Comcast), it needs to be registered by Comcast in its database as an authorized device.  It is how Comcast keeps people who do not pay for its internet service from getting it for free.  So if you change modems, you need to call Comcast tech support and give them the MAC address of the new modem.  They will walk you through an install and re-boot procedure. The MAC address is printed on a sticker on the modem.  There may also be a DVD that comes with the modem that you can run on your computer to do that remotely.  If it does not work, just call Comcast tech support.   I might also comment that this is a special modem that enables voice over internet protocol (VOIP) telephone service through Comcast.  You do not need a modem with telephony capabilities unless you have telephone service with Comcast.  You can find a list of Comcast approved non-telephony modems on the Comcast web site.  They  are considerably less expensive than a telephony modem.  Be sure to return the rented modem to Comcast or they will keep charging a monthly rental fee.  It is advisable to save your purchase receipt and get a receipt for the returned rental modem in case you have future problems getting the rental charge removed.   You can also call Comcast and ask them to install a new purchased modem for you.  If you are a novice, this might be the best route to go.

Question 2

can I disable the wifi ?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Contact Comcast customer service and they will help you to disable the wifi.

Question 3

What year did this product come out? TG862G is a very old modem. Is that CT a newer version?

Accepted Answer

This is the modem that Comcast uses for its Xfinity service.  It incorporates the cable modem, a router, connections for two telephone lines through Comcast's VOIP telephone service, and 2.4 Ghz Wi Fi (the G and N bands).  Whether it's old or not, this is what Comcast uses, and it comes in a box that says "Comcast Xfinity."  And it works fine.  The router has a switch fast enough to pass through the full speed of the 150 Mbps Extreme internet service.  The only limitation is that the Wi Fi is single band 2.4 Ghz, and it tops out at 75 Mbps.  If you want faster 5.2 Ghz A band WiFi, you have to buy a dual band access point and run it separately off the Arris router, which is what I've done.

Question 4

does unit come with backup battery ?

Accepted Answer

The backup battery is not included.

Question 5

Will this work with Spectrum formally Brighthouse?

Accepted Answer

I'm asking Spectrum the same thing.
Spectrum hasn't responded.

Question 6

Do the Ethernet cables have to plug in a certain order?

Accepted Answer

There is one port that plugs directly into the modem that is clearly marked. The rest does not matter the order

Question 7

Will this support MagicJack?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it does, we current are a MagicJack user.

Question 8

i can't remember my password or user name on my unit.

canit be reset somehow?

Accepted Answer

To reset, you have to hold the button in the back in for several seconds. It will go back to defaults. The default username is "admin" and the password is "password". Don't type the quotes.

Question 9

How do I find a password for the device I am conecting to this Modem?

Accepted Answer

If you mean the default WiFi password then it's written on the label on the side or bottom of the modem.

Question 10

Will this item work with Time Warner, or is it exclusively for Comcast?

Accepted Answer

Hello,

Thank you for contacting us in regards to your question.  This item is exclusively for Comcast.

Thank you, 
Newegg Support

Questions & Answers