Professional Installation
If your residence already has an accessible, working cable line, the process of a professional installation will be quick and straightforward.1. Set up an appointment
You’ll need to contact TWC to make an appointment with a professional installation technician.2. Allow the technician to set up your Internet equipment.
The technician will arrive in the predetermined time window, set up the modem and even offer to do a more involved activation. You will have to confirm the appointment when the technician calls, and you should also ensure that either you or another adult with valid photo ID can be present for the entire installation. Renters may also be asked to provide proof of landlord approval before the technician will run any new cables or wires.Pros
- Simplicity: If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of figuring out a cable modem’s firmware or moving your furniture around to get to those wall outlets, a professional installation will simplify that process significantly.
- Troubleshooting Assistance: A professional will be able to solve any potential problems and will ensure that your Internet service is running effectively. You won’t have to worry about any technical issues or other problems. A technician can also help with more complex networking needs, including connection configuration and software installation.
Cons
- Installation Fee: TWC charges a one-time installation fee. Because this cost differs depending on your region and the equipment being installed, you’ll need to contact TWC directly for a specific quote for professional installation.
- Scheduling: A professional installation requires that you set a specific time for the installation. Because the appointment is usually scheduled in a certain window of time, it may be inconvenient to remain available for the duration of the projected time.
Self-Installation
If you’re considering doing a self-installation, the process will be more involved than with a professional installation.1. Order your Easy Connect Kit
When ordering online, eligible plans automatically opt in for an Easy Connect Kit. You should make sure that the option is selected before confirming your order.2. Receive your equipment package
You can pick up your Easy Connect Kit at a local TWC store or opt to have it shipped to you by mail. If you choose the mail option, the package should arrive 2–5 business days after the order is placed.3. Set up your equipment
Every kit should contain your cable modem, connection cables, an Easy Connect Guide, and some additional accessories. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth installation:- Locate your cable wall outlet, and run your coaxial cable from the outlet to your modem’s “In” socket. If you have a cable set top box, use the included cable splitter to run a separate cable to both your modem and your set top box.
- Connect your computer to your cable modem with an Ethernet cable. Most desktops should have an Ethernet port on the back of the case, and many laptops will have an Ethernet port on the side of the body. If you’re using a wireless modem and have subscribed to TWC Home WiFi, you won’t need to connect anything with an Ethernet cable.
- Plug your modem’s power cord into the back side of the modem and connect it to a wall outlet.
- Make sure that the light on your modem has turned on before proceeding. You will need to activate your modem before you can connect to the internet.
4. Activate your equipment
There are two ways to activate your TWC Internet service.- Online: In order to activate your modem online, you’ll need to log in to TWC’s Easy Connect website and select “Manage and Troubleshoot Services.” Navigate to the “Troubleshooting” tab and select “Internet.” Under the “Activate/Connect Modem” option, click “Reset My Modem.” Your cable modem should now be activated.
- By Phone: Call TWC’s automated phone line at 1-877-309-5869 in order to activate your modem by phone. After verifying your account with your phone number, say “Activate my Modem” when prompted. Follow the instructions given and the phone system will walk you through the activation process.
5. Configure your home wireless network
Configuring your TCW WiFi™ will ensure that each of your devices can connect to the Internet.- Open your Web browser and connect to 192.168.0.1 from your address bar. This will navigate to your modem’s firmware.
- Log in with the default username and password. While these can differ between manufacturers, the default username and password are usually “admin” and “password,” respectively. The username and password may also be written on the bottom of some modems. Contact your modem’s manufacturer if you have difficulty finding the correct default login information.
- Click the “Wireless” tab to configure your WiFi settings. You can rename your WiFi by changing the value in the Network Name (SSID) field. You should also change your password, which is located in the WPA Pre-Shared Key field.
- Try to connect to your WiFi with any of your wireless devices to make sure the connection is up and running.
Pros
- Speed: Self-installing means you can skip the hassle of setting up an appointment with TWC. You can get online as soon as you finish installing your cable modem, and you can do it on your own time and according to your own schedule.
- Cost: By self-installing, you can avoid the one-time installation fee and save yourself a few dollars. While it does cost some of your own time to install the service, the time investment is negligible.
- Setup Flexibility: You can install your cable modem wherever you feel is best. You’ll also be able to take your time configuring things in your home to make sure you get a strong signal in every room.
Cons
- Limited Guidance: If you run into any networking problems beyond those covered in the installation guide, it can be difficult or impossible to fix the issues without the help of a professional.
- Kit Accessibility: The TWC Easy Connect Kit can be picked up from any TWC Store location that has kits in stock, but availability may be limited depending on demand. If you don’t have a store close by, the kit will be shipped to your address. It can take up to five business days for your cable modem to arrive, which may be longer than you want to wait.
The Verdict
Self-installation isn’t for everyone — if you are a technophobe or dislike dealing with the ins and outs of cable modems, you’ll be better off footing the installation fee to hire a professional. If, on the other hand, you have some basic experience with technology and an inclination towards DIY projects, opting for the self-installation option will save you both time and money. If you’re ready to go forward with self-installation, order a Time Warner Cable plan and pick up your Easy Connect Kit today. Fiber-optic Internet is a relatively new technology, but it’s quickly grabbing its fair share of the market. While fiber connections aren’t widely available yet, the potential network speed and reliability make it a strong competitor. Fiber-optic cables are cheaper, weigh less, and are easier to maintain than standard cable lines, making this new technology a top pick for service providers as well. If you’re considering moving to fiber-optic Internet but aren’t sure what to expect from the installation, read on to learn more about the process and benefits.Check out our guide to fiber optic modems:
2018’s Best Modems for Gigabit Internet
The Equipment Fiber-optic Internet isn’t run through traditional copper wiring. Instead, data is transmitted as small beams of light, allowing information to move further and faster than ever before. Since the system is fundamentally different from other Internet networks, there will be a few new pieces of equipment you’ll need to set up a fiber-optic connection. First, you’ll need fiber-optic cable. If your chosen service offers fiber to the premises (FTTP), the installation technicians will run the cable directly to your home. The cable will then be routed to your terminal jack to connect the network in your house. If, on the other hand, your provider offers fiber to the node (FTTN), the fiber-optic cable will terminate at a nearby off-premises hub, and the final distance from the hub to your home will be run with traditional cable/DSL lines. For FTTP services, you’ll also need a new modem. Traditional cable and DSL modems will not work with fiber Internet, as the signal translation differs. Instead of converting analog signals into digital signals, as a traditional modem does, a fiber-optic modem — sometimes called an optical network terminal (ONT) — translates the light signals into digital signals. In this regard, the modem functions as a bridge, with your fiber-optic connection on one end and an Ethernet port on the other. Finally, if your fiber services are faster than your old connection, you may need to invest in a new wireless router that can keep up with the speeds you’ve ordered. Most providers include necessary equipment in service installation packages, but it’s a good idea to verify the details beforehand. Some providers charge monthly rental fees for routers, for example, so you’ll want to verify which devices you can purchase yourself. The Process The first step is to ensure that your area is able to receive fiber-optic service. Any Internet Service Provider (ISP) should be able to give you this information and tell you what plans are available at your location. Once you verify that you can receive fiber-optic services, schedule your installation. Keep in mind that installation times and costs may differ depending on your home’s current arrangement. If your home already has an established fiber-optic connection, the setup will be much simpler. Homes without a current fiber network, however, will need to have new lines run to bring the fiber services in. Fiber-optic lines can be connected to your house either aerially — along existing telephone poles — or underground. While most aerial installations can be done the same day, an underground installation will require digging and may take a bit longer. Once the line is established, the technician will install your modem/terminal as the connection point for the fiber-optic cable. This terminal can vary in size, but most are roughly 7 inches high and 3 inches wide. It can be mounted in your house — usually in a garage or basement — or outdoors. As soon as the terminal is functional, you can then connect your wireless router and set up your Wi-Fi network. Your technician may also be able to run new Ethernet lines and ports through your walls, allowing greater direct network access. Be aware that, as drilling and digging may be required to get fiber-optic network installed, you’ll need to have a workspace cleared for your technician. If you are currently renting your home, it’s a good idea to obtain written consent from your landlord before getting started. The Payoff Overall, installing a fiber-optic network can be fairly painless, assuming that you’re near a provider’s network and have space for the equipment. Most Internet service providers offer a few different fiber-optic bundles and can professionally install the network for you. Fiber-optic Internet is one of the fastest connection types available, so if you need high speeds, low latency, and an overall reliable connection, the setup is definitely worth the effort. Check this list of fiber-optic providers to see what fiber plans are available near you.