How to Install CenturyLink Internet
Set up your DSL or fiber internet with the mobile app
Aug 7, 2025 | Share 
Brand Guides, Equipment Guides, FAQ
You can probably install CenturyLink home internet yourself, whether you have a fiber or DSL connection. If it’s the first time for a new connection at your address, though, you’ll need to schedule an appointment.
We’ll help you figure out what you need to complete the installation. Then, we’ll walk you through all the steps to take so you can set up your Wi-Fi and connect all your devices.
Pro installation vs. self-installation
Pro install
Pros:
- Entire installation performed by tech
- Problems addressed by tech
- Ability to move modem/router to a different room ($85 fee for new phone jack)
Cons:
- Installation fee up to $149
- Scheduled appointment required
- May take up to six hours
Self-install
Pros:
- No appointment necessary
- Free or cheap
- Quick and easy
Cons:
- Doesn’t always work
- May not be able to move gateway location
- Limited assistance with troubleshooting
Self-installation for CenturyLink internet
Cost: $25 (free with Gig speed fiber plans)
What you need: Self-install kit, CenturyLink-compatible modem or gateway
My CenturyLink app: Android or iOS versions available
How long it takes: 30–45 minutes
Will CenturyLink self-installation work for me?
You may be able to install your own internet service whether you have DSL or fiber internet from CenturyLink, but only if you have had service at your address before. If not, you will need to schedule an appointment with an installation technician.
How can you tell if your residence has access to the CenturyLink network? The best way is to simply ask CenturyLink how recently the address had CenturyLink internet service. The more recently the address had service, the greater the chances there’s still a working connection.
If that’s the case, you’ll get a kit in the mail before your start date. Just wait until 7 p.m. on the day your service is set to begin, crack open the box, and follow the included instructions.
If you run into a problem with your CenturyLink self-installation, contact CenturyLink customer support.
How long does CenturyLink self-install take?
You can complete your CenturyLink self-install in about 30 minutes.
- Equipment setup: 15 minutes
- Equipment power-up and update: 15 minutes
Professional installation for CenturyLink internet
Cost: Up to $129 (waived for gig speed fiber plans if ordered online)
What you need: A person 18 years or older who can provide access to the inside and outside of your residence
How long it takes: Up to six hours
Professional appointments are required if you haven’t had service at your address before. This might be the case if you live in a DSL area but haven’t had service for years or if you’re getting a new fiber internet connection.
If you need to schedule professional installation, you’ll either be asked to schedule an appointment when you order online or a customer support representative will let you know over the phone.
If you live in an area eligible for fiber, your installation will be free. If you opt for a 500Mbps plan, though, you could be charged up to $149.
It’s not common, but you may want a professional installation even if your home has a working connection. You will probably need to call in to set it up, though.
A professional installation is a good option for these circumstances:
-
- Your residence hasn’t had CenturyLink service for over 12 months
- Your home’s cables and phone jacks are old or damaged
- You want to move the location of your internet gateway to a different room
See our guide on where to place your router to learn more about picking the best spot in your home.
How to self-install CenturyLink internet
To install your new internet service, you need your CenturyLink self-install kit, which you can order when you sign up for your CenturyLink internet plan. Your service should be active by 7 p.m. on your service activation date.
What comes in your self-install kit
Your CenturyLink self-install kit includes the following:
- DSL gateway of fiber router (sometimes referred to as a modem in CenturyLink help materials)
- Black power cord
- Yellow Ethernet cable
- White Ethernet cable
- Cable for your phone jack or fiber ONT
Check your internet speeds
Use our speed test to ensure you’re getting the most out of your new internet service.
CenturyLink self-install step-by-step
Step 1: Plug the power cord to a wall outlet and connect it to the back of the modem.
Step 2: Connect the fiber or DSL cable to the correct port on the back of the gateway or router provided
Step 3: Wait while the gateway or router boots up (up to 15 minutes). The status light on the front will blink while the modem boots up. It will turn blue when its ready and, if you have DSL, the DSL light on the back will turn green.
Step 4: Activate your service using the mobile app OR the QuickConnect site on a browser and walk through the steps to sign your subscriber agreement, finish installing service, and create your personal network.
Step 5: Connect your devices via Wi-Fi using the name and password on the back of the modem.
(Optional) Step 6: Connect a computer or gaming console to the modem via Ethernet using the Ethernet on your device and one of the Ethernet ports on the back of the modem.
Issues with a CenturyLink self-install
If you’re having trouble with your self-install, check the lights on your CenturyLink gateway or router. The status light on the front should be solid blue, and the DSL light on the back should be solid green. If the front status light is blinking after 15 minutes or the DSL light on the back is red, the device can’t connect to the CenturyLink network. First, try the following:
- Check that your cables and connections are correct. Reference the instructions that came with your self-install kit.
- Restart the CenturyLink device. To do this, unplug the power cable, wait 15 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait up to 15 minutes for the modem to reboot.
- Try a different phone jack, if using DSL.
If the gateway or router still doesn’t connect to the network, contact CenturyLink customer support.
CenturyLink modem is online, but the internet connection is slow or spotty
If your CenturyLink modem is online, but you still don’t have a good internet connection, try some general troubleshooting.
Start with our guide on how to set up a home Wi-Fi network, as it may help with general steps you missed.
Next, try our internet and Wi-Fi troubleshooting guides:
CenturyLink equipment rental
CenturyLink charges $15 to rent a DSL gateway or $17 per month to rent a fiber gateway, unless you choose a fiber internet plan.
You could buy the equipment outright for about $200, or you could use your own gateway or router. If you go that route, you’ll need to call in during setup to get the correct credentials for your gear.
But choosing to rent equipment has its advantages. CenturyLink will provide tech support if anything goes wrong, replace the unit if it breaks, and update it when it’s obsolete. If you choose to purchase your own equipment, tech support, repairs, and replacement are all on you.
Which installation option is best for you?
CenturyLink provides a free professional installation for fiber customers who order online and choose a gigabit plan.
For DSL customers, the self-install is worth a shot. You just need to find a working phone jack, plug in your gear, and wait a few minutes before firing up the app. It may take up to 45 minutes, but most of that’s just waiting for the connection to establish.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your home’s networking or if you’re not comfortable setting up your own equipment, ask about a professional install.
considering centurylink alternatives?
Start comparing local providers by entering your zip code below.
FAQ about CenturyLink internet installation
Can you install CenturyLink internet on your own?
How much is a CenturyLink installation?
Is CenturyLink self-install free?
What is a CenturyLink standard installation?
Author - Chili Palmer
Chili Palmer covers home tech services, with a special focus on understanding what families need and how they can stay connected on a budget. She handles internet access and affordability, breaking news, mobile services, and consumer trends. Chili’s work as a writer, reporter, and editor has appeared in publications including Telecompetitor, Utah Business, Idaho Business Review, Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, and Switchful.com.
Editor - Rebecca Lee Armstrong
Rebecca Lee Armstrong has more than six years of experience writing about tech and the internet, with a specialty in hands-on testing. She started writing tech product and service reviews while finishing her BFA in creative writing at the University of Evansville and has found her niche writing about home networking, routers, and internet access at HighSpeedInternet.com. Her work has also been featured on Top Ten Reviews, MacSources, Windows Central, Android Central, Best Company, TechnoFAQ, and iMore.
Related Posts
