With faster speeds than its competitors, Cox Communications offers multiple cables, phone, and internet packages. It is one of the most popular Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in the country. Unlike some other ISPs, you can manage your Cox router settings directly from your online account.
This guide will show you how to maximize the Cox router’s best features while giving you some solutions to common issues users face when using the device.
Table of Contents
How to Login to a Cox Router
To install your Cox services, you’ll complete three steps:
1. Set up your Cox online account
2. Install your hardware
3. Log into your router
Since Cox uses various routers from different companies, the installation will vary from router to router. We’ve included the steps below to successfully self-install your Cox services.
How to Set Up Your Cox Account
Before you receive your equipment, you should set up your Cox online account. Follow these steps to create your Cox online account:
1. Visit https://www.cox.com/residential/home.html
2. Click on the arrow next to “Sign-In: My Account.” This is located at the top of the page on the right-hand side.
3. Below the text boxes for your sign-in information, click on the link “No Account? Register Now!”
4. Follow the prompts on the following page to set up your account.
You’ll enter some details about your account, such as your account number and your contact information. You can find this information in the confirmation message sent to you after signing up for your services.
5. Click “Submit” to finalize your online account.
How to Set Up Your Equipment
Cox offers installation services, where a technician comes to your home, or you can install your equipment yourself. Self-installation is usually quicker and cheaper.
When you receive your box of equipment, read the instructions carefully. Make sure you receive everything you need to install your device. Cox uses cable routers, so your package should include the router, an Ethernet cable, and a coaxial cable.
Complete these steps to install your hardware:
1. Choose a location in the center of your home to set up your router.
2. Connect the coaxial cable to the back of the router. Connect the other end to the coaxial wall outlet.
3. Use the Ethernet cord to connect the router to your computer.
Insert one end into one of the Ethernet ports on the back of your router. Connect the other end into an Ethernet port on your laptop or computer.
4. Plug your router into a power source.
Insert the A/C/ cord into your router first, then plug it into a wall outlet.
5. If your router doesn’t turn on automatically, press the “On/Off” button to turn on the router.
Wait about five minutes for the device to boot up.
How to Log Into a Cox Router
Once you have set up your router, you can log into the device. This will bring you to the device’s web interface, where you can change your settings.
To log into your router:
1. Open an internet browser.
2. Enter the default IP address in the address bar.
The default IP will vary, depending on the manufacturer of the equipment. Cox routers use a variety of default IPs, such as:
- http://192.168.1.1
- http://192.168.0.1
- http://192.168.0.254
- http://192.168.1.254
- http://www.routerlogin.net
- http://www.routerlogin.com
Refer to your device’s user manual or check the sticker on the router’s side to find the IP address that matches your device.
3. Press “Enter” to reach the router’s login page.
4. Enter the router’s login information. The username and password will be printed on a sticker on the side of your router.
5. You are now logged into your Cox router’s main menu.
How to Use the Cox My Wi-Fi Tool
The Cox My Wi-Fi tool is a convenient way to change your device’s settings and manage your internet usage. It is an option you can find in your online Cox account, in which you can change your settings as you pay your bill. To access My Wi-Fi:
1. Sign in to your Cox account.
2. Click on the side arrow next to “My Account.”
3. Select the “My Account” link.
4. Under the “Internet” tab, click on the “My Wi-Fi” link.
Accessing the My Wi-Fi Tool in the Cox App
You can also access “My Wi-Fi” through the Cox app on a mobile device. Complete the following instructions:
1. On your preferred mobile devices, download the Cox app.
Visit either the Apple App Store or Google Play to download the app.
2. Sign in to the app with your Cox account login information.
3. Find the “My Wi-Fi Tool” under the menu options.
A Full List of Cox Certified Devices
Watch these Youtube videos for more help setting up and logging into your device:
| Brand and Model | Channels | Highest Compatible Package | Dual Band 802.11AC WiFi Or Higher |
|---|---|---|---|
| ARRIS / Surfboard CM8200 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard DG2460 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB6141 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB6180 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB6182 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB6183 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB6190 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SB8200 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG10 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6400 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6580 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6700 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6782 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6900 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG6950 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG7400 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG7580 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG7600AC2 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard SBG8300 | 32×8 | Gigablast | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard TG1682 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic This device is Cox Voice compatible. | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard TG2472 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic This device is Cox Voice compatible. | Yes |
| ARRIS / Surfboard TM3402 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast This device is Cox Voice compatible. | No |
| Asus CM16 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Asus CM32 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Cisco DPC3008 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Cisco DPC3010 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Cisco DPC3825 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Cisco DPQ3212 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 This device is Cox Voice compatible. | No |
| Cisco DPQ3925 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 This device is Cox Voice compatible. | No |
| DLink DCM301 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Hitron-Zyxel CDA30360 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Linksys CG7500 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Linksys CM3008 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Linksys CM3016 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Linksys CM3024 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Motorola MB7220 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Motorola MB7420 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Motorola MB7621 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Motorola MB8600 | 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| Motorola MG7310 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Motorola MG7315 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Motorola MG7540 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Motorola MG7550 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Motorola MG7700 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C3000 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear C3000v2 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear C3700 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear C3700v2 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear C6220 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| Netgear C6250 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C6300 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C6300BD | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| Netgear C6300v2 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C6900 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C7000 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C7500 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C7500 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear C7800 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | Yes |
| Netgear CAX80 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | Yes |
| Netgear CBR40 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Netgear CG3000D | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear CG3000Dv2 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear CG4500BD | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear CM400 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Netgear CM500 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Netgear CM600 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Netgear CM700 | 32×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Netgear CM1000 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| Netgear CM1000v2 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| Netgear CM1100 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| Netgear CM1200 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | No |
| SMC D3CM1604 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| Technicolor CGM4141 | DOCSIS 3.1 32×8 | Gigablast | Yes |
| TP-LINK TC-7610 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| TP-LINK TC-7620 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| TP-LINK TC-7650 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | No |
| TP-LINK TC-W7960 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| TP-LINK CR500 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| TP-LINK CR700 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| TP-LINK CR1900 | 24×8 | Ultimate Classic | Yes |
| Ubee DDW365 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Ubee DDW366 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Ubee DVW326 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 This device is Cox Voice compatible. | No |
| Zoom 5341J | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5345 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5350 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5352 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5354 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5360 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | No |
| Zoom 5363 | 8×4 | Preferred 150 | Yes |
| Zoom 5370 | 16×4 | Ultimate Classic | No |
Watch these Youtube videos for more help setting up and logging into your device:
To set up your Cox account. (Source)
You can find the default IP address, admin username and password, and the SSID usernames and passwords on a sticker, usually placed on the back or the side of your device. You may see two default SSIDs: one for the 2.4GHz bandwidth and one for the 5GHz bandwidth. (Source)
The login page for your admin username and password. You will see this when logging into your router. (Source)
The “My WiFi” link is located in the Internet menu. (Source)
The main screen under the My WiFi tool. (Source)
Troubleshooting Your Cox Router
Like any piece of equipment, you may encounter some technical issues with your Cox router. The most common problems with these include the device malfunctioning, slow Internet, or no internet signal. Luckily, for the most part, you can resolve these issues with a reboot or a reset.
How to Reboot a Cox Router
Performing a router reboot means you have to turn off the router and unplug it. After leaving your equipment disconnected for a few minutes, plug the device back in and press the power button (if you have one). The device will turn back on, usually resolving whatever technical issues. Unlike performing a reset, rebooting your device will leave all your settings intact.
Follow these instructions to reboot a Cox router:
1. Disconnect any devices wirelessly connected to your router.
This includes tablets, Smart TVs, and cell phones.
2. Turn your router off. Unplug the router from the wall outlet.
Depending on your make and model, your device may or may not have a power button. If your router has a power button, switch the power off before unplugging it. If you don’t have a power
button, the device will shut off when you unplug the unit.
3. If your computer is hardwired to your router, shut it down.
4. Wait for about one minute.
5. Plug the router back in and turn it on.
6. Turn your devices back on.
If you have a computer hardwired to your device, turn it on first to check for an internet connection.
7. If your issue is resolved, turn your other wireless devices back on and connect to the Internet.
How to Reboot a Cox Router Using My Wi-Fi
You can also reboot your device using the My Wi-Fi tool. This method doesn’t require unplugging any wires. The “My Wi-Fi” tool sends a signal to the router to reboot itself.
Complete These Steps to Use the My Wi-Fi tool:
1. Sign in to your account and open “My Wi-Fi.”
2. Click on the “Network Settings” tab.
3. Select “Show Advanced Settings.”
4. Scroll down to the section “Send Reboot Signal to Modem.”
5. Click on the button that says, “Reboot Modem.”
6. The router will reboot. Please wait until it turns back on before checking your Internet connection.
How to Reset a Cox Router
Sometimes a reboot does not resolve the technical issues with your device, and you need to perform a reset. This will return your device to its default settings. Before beginning the reset, log into your device or the My Wi-Fi tool. Write down your router and wireless settings (such as usernames and passwords, as well as the encryption type.) This will make it easier to restore your settings after the reset.
To reset your Cox router, follow the instructions below.
1. Locate the “Reset” button on the router. This is usually located at the back or on the side, next to the A/C port.
2. Use a paperclip to hold down the “Reset” button for 10-15 seconds.
3. Stop holding down the reset button when the LED lights on the router start blinking.
4. The router will reset itself. When it turns back on, the reset is complete when the LED lights stop flashing.
5. Log into your router or the “My Wi-Fi” tool to change your default settings.
This includes changing your router’s username and Wi-Fi connection’s password, the name of the Wi-Fi connection, and the router’s security settings.
How to Reset a Cox Router Using My Wi-Fi
Like the reboot, the My Wi-Fi tool also allows you to send a signal to your device to begin the reset. The following instructions detail how to perform a reset using the My Wi-Fi tool.
1. Log into your Cox account and access the “My Wi-Fi” menu.
2. Click on the “Network Settings” tab.
3. Select “Show Advanced Settings.”
4. Under Advanced Settings, find the “Restoring to Factory Default Settings” section.
5. Click on “Restore Factory Settings.”
6. The router will perform the reset. It will turn off and then turn back on.
7. Reconfigure your router when it turns back on and the LEDs stop blinking.
For more information, watch these Youtube tutorials:
The “Reboot Modem” button in the My Wifi tool. (Source)
The “Restore to Factory Settings” button in My WiFi. (Source)
How to Configure the Cox Router
After installing your device, you need to change the settings to make your internet connection more secure. The instructions below offer a general guide to updating your passwords and settings. Cox uses a wide variety of devices so that the steps may vary from router to router. Always consult your device’s user manual before attempting to change any settings.
Change Your Router Admin Username and Password
The first step in changing your settings is updating your router’s admin username and password. These are the credentials you use to log into your router. Changing these to something more secure will keep others from logging into your device.
Follow these instructions to change your device’s admin username and password. Depending on your router’s manufacturer, the order or specifics of these steps may be different.
1. Log into your router.
2. When you reach the main menu, look for a submenu for your router’s main settings.
This may be labeled “Maintenance,” “Tools,” “Settings,” or “Administration” – or something similar.
3. Open the submenu for your router’s settings. Locate the page or link labeled “Change admin username/password.”
4. Click on the link or submenu to change your admin name and password. A page will display your current settings.
5. Change your admin username and password in the corresponding text boxes.
Please write down this information in case you need it later.
6. Click “Save” or “Apply” to save your changes.
Change Your Wireless Settings
You can update the Service Set Identifier (SSID) network name, password, and security settings under the same menu on most Cox routers. In this section, we will cover the process of modifying your wireless settings to create a more secure connection for your home or workplace.
The instructions below will help you change your wireless settings.
1. Log into your router.
2. Find the menu for your wireless settings. This is usually labeled as “Wireless” or “Wireless Settings.”
3. Look for the subsection that houses the settings for your SSID. This is your internet connection.
4. Open the page/section for your SSID settings.
5. Find the section for your SSID encryption settings. Change your SSID encryption to WPA/WPA2.
6. Change the SSID name in the text box to something you will recognize as your internet connection.
7. Change the SSID password to something so difficult that you can’t memorize it, and you have to write it down.
8. Write down your new values and keep them in a safe place.
9. Click “Save” or “Apply” to save your SSID username and password.
How to Configure Your Cox Router With My Wi-Fi
You can also use the My Wi-Fi tool to update your device’s internet settings. Follow these instructions to change your SSID information.
1. Log into your Cox account.
2. Click the arrow next to “My Account” and select “Internet.”
3. Under this menu, click on “My Wi-Fi.”
4. On the “My Wi-Fi” page, click on the “Network Settings” tab.
5. Click on “Show Advanced Settings.”
You will see the settings for your SSID name, password, and encryption all in one place on this page. We will change these individually.
6. Under “Primary Network,” change the SSID name in the “Wireless Network Name (SSID)” field.
7. Click the dropdown menu and change the “Wireless Security” setting to “WPA2-PSK.”
8. Change the “Wireless Password” in the text box to something complicated for anyone to guess.
9. Scroll down to the “Guest Network” section.
If you don’t want your Guest Network turned on, leave the toggle switch in the “Off” position. Scroll down all the way to the bottom of the page and click “Save” to keep your changes. If you want to turn your “Guest Network” on, click the toggle switch and complete the remaining steps to change your settings.
10. If you want to update your guest network settings, make sure the connection is turned on.
11. Change the network name in the “Wireless Network Name (SSID)” text box.
This name should be slightly different from your primary network’s SSID.
12. Change the guest network password in the “Wireless Password” box.
13. Click “Save” to apply your changes.
14. Using your new SSID network name and password, connect all of your wireless devices to the Internet using the updated credentials.
Renaming Your Devices with My Wi-Fi
While you are in the My Wi-Fi menu updating your wireless security settings, it is also a good idea to change your devices’ names. Instead of the default name for the devices connected to your network, you can change them to identify their owners. This will give you a good idea of who is using the Internet – and when.
Complete the instructions below to change the names on your connected devices:
1. Under the My Wi-Fi page, click on the “Device” tab.
2. In the list, locate a device whose name you want to change.
3. Click on the link, “Edit Device Name.”
4. Change the device name.
5. Click “Save.”
6. Repeat steps 3-5 for each device.
The Youtube videos below will provide some more guidance on configuring your router:
You may see this screen when changing your SSID username and password. (Source)
The default SSID password will match what is printed on the label of your router. (Source)
WPA2-PSK is the most secure encryption settings for your Cox router. (Source)
Now that you are familiar with the installation, login, and configuration stages of setting up your Cox services, you can experience the best speeds that the company has to offer. If you run into any issues outside what is covered in this article, always read through your owner’s manual and consult Cox’s support page. It includes much more information about internet security and maximizing Internet speed, so you can always stay on top of your connection.
FAQs
How Do I Alter My Wi-Fi Name and Password?
There are two methods to change your Cox Wi-Fi name and password. You can log into your router and edit them under the router’s Wireless Settings menu. You can also log into your Cox Account and use the My Wi-Fi tool; under the “Network Settings” tab, you can change your Wi-Fi name and password, as well as update the security settings.
What Kind of Router Does Cox Use?
Cox uses a variety of modems by different manufacturers. ARRIS, Asus, Cisco, Dlink, Linksys, Motorola, Netgear, SMC, Technicolor, Tplink, Ubee, Zoom all supply routers to Cox Communications customers.
How Do I Access My Cox Router Settings?
To access your router’s settings, you can either log into the router or you can use the Cox My Wi-Fi tool.
Does Cox Panoramic Wi-Fi Need a Router?
No. Cox Panoramic Wi-Fi comes with a modem/router combo that makes a router unnecessary.
