How do I activate my new cable modem?

To activate your new modem, you have to work with your service provider. The service provider has to be a cable service provider, the modem will not work with DSL or Fiber.

Depending on your service provider, you may be able to activate the modem a few ways:

Call or chat with the service provider’s support. The support team will help walk you through activation.

Try to access the Internet. The service provider may have a “walled garden” landing page that will walk you through activation.

Use the service provider’s mobile app. Your service provider may provide cable modem activation services through their app.


Make sure you have your cable modem’s MAC address ready as this is usually used during the activation process. It will be labeled “HFC MAC ID” on the sticker on the modem. It should be 12 characters long, in 2 character groups such as “AB:CD:EF:12:34:56”.

The easiest way to get started is to download the SURFboard Central mobile application.

The App will give you a step-by-step guide to install your device, including direct use of the self-help Service provider portals (for applicable Service providers) so you may not have to call in at all.

The cable company said I needed to contact Arris for support 

Cable company said to contact Arris to activate my modem/router   I have internet but I need Wi-Fi to be setup.