We’ve tested a good amount of modems here at Networks Hardware, and we can confidently say the CM2000 sits close to the top.
Its blazing fast speeds are almost too much for most households. But its intention is very clear: a stable, fast performance that you can rely on.
That, unfortunately, comes at a price.
Netgear CM2000 Overview
The Netgear CM2000 is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. This means two things:
- It’s not a router, so you’ll need to pair it up with one if you want to connect more than a single device or use Wi-Fi.
- It only works with cable internet providers.
That being said, the CM2000 is compatible with every major ISP, making it a strong option for those who rather own their hardware than rent it.
It supports the newer DOCSIS 3.1 version, which means it should be able to serve you for years to come.
And while we don’t like that it only has a single ethernet port, it does support connections up to 2.5 Gbps (2,500 Mbps), which is exactly what you want from a DOCSIS 3.1 modem.
However, its price is hard to justify if you have a connection of 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) or less. For around the same cost, you can get a high-quality DOCSIS 3.1 modem router combo that supports up to 1 Gbps like the Motorola MG8702.
But if 1 Gbps connections simply don’t cut it anymore for you, you’re in for a treat.
Netgear CM2000 Specs
| Type | Cable Modem |
| Wi-Fi | No Router |
| Brand | Netgear |
| Model | CM2000 |
| Standards | DOCSIS 3.1 & DOCSIS 3.0 32×8 |
| Top WAN speed | 2500 Mbps |
| Ports | One 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port & one coax port |
| Top internet plan supported. | 2500 Mbps |
| Supported ISP’s | Armstrong, Atlantic Broadband, Comcast Xfinity, Charter Spectrum, Cox, GCI, Grande, Mediacom, Midco, Suddenlink, WOW, Sparklight, Optimum, RCN, Wave |
| Not supported ISP’s | N/A |
| Weight | 1.02 pounds |
| Dimensions | 8.2 x 6.8 x 3.7 inches |
| Warranty | 1-year |
You can find the CM2000’s complete spec sheet at Netgear’s official website.
Performance – 4.8
Without a doubt, the CM2000’s greatest strength is high performance.
You have two things going in your favor here. One, the CM2000 is a Netgear device. This means reliability and hardware you can trust.
Pair that with a 2.5 Gbps LAN port, and you get a high-speed and trustworthy networking experience.
With the CM2000 on hand, your focus should be your internet plan.
Using this modem with a 300 Mbps plan is borderline crazy. There are much cheaper options that can offer the same amount of reliability. Even other Netgear devices like the CM1000 are better suited for the task if it’s the brand you’re looking for.
The CM2000 needs to be paired with internet speeds that match its capabilities.
In our opinion, you should use the CM2000 with a plan no slower than 500 Mbps. And preferably 1000 Mbps.
Design – 4.0
In general, the Netgear CM2000’s design is good.
It looks modern, aesthetically pleasing, and it definitely screams performance.
But if you like being nitpicky, it could be better.
Let’s not forget the CM2000 is a stand-alone modem, not a gateway. This means you’ll probably be pairing it with a separate router.
The problem is that the CM2000 is chunky and wide (even though it’s vertically oriented), which means you’ll need a good amount of shelf space.
Since it’s just a modem with two ports on the back, one coaxial and one ethernet, most of the device is just black plastic.
So, when looking at it from the back, you can’t help but feel it’s too plain or that they could’ve made it much smaller or sleek. It feels “empty”.
Once set up and looking at it from the front, the story is similar. The LED lights for power, upstream, downstream, and WAN connection are not too bright. Their white color also helps the device look more premium.
However, you get the same feeling from the back, the status lights take up just a portion of the upper half of the device, and the rest is a sea of black plastic again.
Compatibility – 4.8
The CM2000 is a DOCSIS 3.1 modem. Your cable internet provider needs to support it in order for you to use this modem.
And even if it does, compatibility is hard to guarantee. That being said, you can be confident the CM2000 is compatible with all major ISPs and then some.
Here are some providers we know will work with the Netgear CM2000. But keep in mind your ISP might still be compatible even if not on this list. Always double-check compatibility before purchasing any modem or router.
Approved for:
- Comcast Xfinity
- Spectrum
- Cox
- Sparklight
- WOW
- Suddenlink (not recommended for plans below 200 Mbps)
- Armstrong
- Breezeline (formerly Atlantic Broadband)
- Astound Broadband (Grande)
- Astound Broadband (RCN)
- Astound Broadband (Wave)
- Mediacom
- Optimum (in some areas)
Setup – 4.6
If all goes well, setting up the CM2000 should be a breeze. It includes some easy-to-follow instructions that should get you up and running.
If you do run into some trouble, it’s most likely on your ISP’s side. They could not have activated your coaxial connection yet, for example.
Here’s a quick rundown on how to set up the CM2000:
- Connect the coaxial cable to the router.
- Connect the power cord.
- Turn on the modem.
- Connect the modem to a computer via ethernet, or connect it directly to your router (if you connect it to a router, make sure to connect a device to the router).
- Open a web browser. Browsing anywhere should redirect you to the activation page.
- Enter the modem’s MAC address (usually found at the bottom or back of the device) and any other requested info.
Or, you could call your ISP and set it up alongside them on the phone if you prefer.
Once set up, you can access your modem’s settings by entering https://192.168.100.1/ into any web browser.
Your modem’s settings can help you change its password, get more information about the device, and give you access to event logs for troubleshooting. But it’s not something you usually need to access.
For more about the CM2000’s setup, check out this Netgear document.
Value – 3.7
The Netgear CM2000 is a great device, but you probably know that at this point.
The thing is, at its price point, it better be.
We have few bad things to say about it, but its price is almost hard to justify.
Depending on your internet plan, you could get both a modem and a router (or a modem/router combo) for the price of a CM2000. It’s definitely not for those looking to stretch their dollar or looking for a good deal.
“You get what you pay for” is surely applicable to the CM2000. And in this case, what you pay for is a lot.
Netgear CM2000 Reviews
There’s no lack of reviews for the CM2000, and most of them are overwhelmingly positive.
The performance is there, and people confirm it left and right. That’s not an issue, and it gets 5-stars from us there, too.
However, some people are unhappy about Netgear’s warranty and support.
Compared to other brands with 2-year warranties and unlimited support, Netgear only offers 90 days of support and a 1-year warranty.
Some people found it particularly annoying that they couldn’t get support from Netgear even before the 1-year warranty expired.
If you need help after 90 days, users claim Netgear asks them to purchase a support plan for an additional cost. After the support window has passed, your only hope is a replacement device. And that’s only if you can prove yours broke down through no fault of your own.
Alternatives
Here are some alternatives to the CM2000.
