Quick Start
High Speed Cable Modem
Model CM500
Package Contents
- Cable modem
- Ethernet cable
- Power adapter
The setup diagram shows the physical connections: a cable wall outlet connects to the modem via a coaxial cable (not included). The modem connects to a power adapter and to a computer via an Ethernet cable.
Getting Started: Connecting Your Cable Modem
Step 1: Collect Provider Information
Gather your cable Internet provider account number, account phone number, and login information (email address or username and password).
Step 2: Connect Coaxial Cable
Use the provided coaxial cable to connect the cable port on the modem to a cable wall outlet or line splitter. Ensure the connection is tight.
Note: Comcast Xfinity recommends connecting directly to a cable wall outlet.
Step 3: Connect Computer to Modem
Use the provided Ethernet cable to connect a computer to the Ethernet port on the cable modem. Reboot the computer.
Note: After activation, you can disconnect the computer and connect a router. See the 'Connect a Router' section for details.
Step 4: Connect Power Adapter
Connect the power adapter to the cable modem and plug it into an electrical outlet. The Power LED should light green upon completion of the startup procedure.
Step 5: Wait for Modem to Come Online
The cable modem will come online when the Internet LED stops blinking and lights solid green. This process may take up to 10 minutes.
Step 6: Set Up Internet Service
Internet service is available only after setup with your cable Internet provider, even if a connection is established.
Comcast Xfinity Self-Activation:
- Close all web browsers and launch a new one. You should be redirected to the Xfinity self-activation page.
- If not redirected, visit: https://www.comcast.com/activate
- Provide your Xfinity credentials during activation.
If you cannot self-activate, call Comcast Xfinity customer service at 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489).
Set Up Your Internet Service
Step 1: Contact Your Cable Internet Provider
- Confirm this cable modem is allowed on your network. It may not be compatible with certain networks.
- Inform your provider you are installing a new modem purchased from retail.
- Provide the modem's model number: CM500.
- Visit your provider's website for onscreen setup instructions.
Cable Internet Provider Contact Information
| Provider | Contact Information |
|---|---|
| Cablevision | Telephone number depends on your region. www.cablevision.com install.optimum.com/JointInstall/ |
| Comcast Xfinity | 1-800-XFINITY (1-800-934-6489) www.comcast.com/activate (See other side of this quick start guide for Xfinity information) |
| Mediacom | 1-844-2SIMPLE (1-844-274-6753) maestro.mediacomcc.com/walledgarden/page/login.jsp |
| Time Warner Cable | 1-800-892-2253 elb02.activatemymodem.com/authentication |
Note: Provider contact information may change. Check your monthly Internet service billing statement.
Step 2: Provide Modem Details
When prompted, provide the cable modem's serial number and MAC address, found on the product label on the bottom of the modem.
Step 3: Wait for Activation
Wait for your cable Internet provider to confirm your cable modem is active.
Step 4: Troubleshooting Connection
If you do not get an Internet connection:
- Ask your provider to check if your modem is visible online.
- If visible, reboot the modem and check your status again.
- If not visible, ask your provider why it is not connecting.
Perform a Speed Test
To check your Internet speed, visit your cable Internet provider's speed test website. If your actual speed is lower than your subscribed speed, contact your provider.
Connect a Router
After installing and activating the cable modem, you can connect a router.
To connect a router:
- Reboot the cable modem by unplugging and replugging the power cable. Wait for the Internet LED to show a solid green light.
- Use an Ethernet cable to connect the modem's Ethernet port to the router's WAN or Internet port.
- Power on the router and wait for it to be ready.
- Connect a computer to the router.
Support
Thank you for purchasing this NETGEAR product. Register your product at https://my.netgear.com using the serial number from the product label. Product registration is required for NETGEAR telephone support.
For product updates and web support, visit http://support.netgear.com. Use only official NETGEAR support resources.
The user manual is available online at http://downloadcenter.netgear.com.
For regulatory compliance information, visit http://www.netgear.com/about/regulatory/. Consult the regulatory compliance document before connecting the power supply.
Important Note: Customer-owned cable modems may not be compatible with all cable networks. Verify compatibility with your cable Internet provider.
NETGEAR, Inc., NETGEAR, and the NETGEAR Logo are trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. Other trademarks are for reference only.
