Have you relocated to an area where Windstream is the only internet service provider? If that’s the case, it’s important to make the most of what’s available, i.e., get a reliable modem for Windstream. Arris NVG343BQ is a popular name in this category, but does it actually deliver? Let's find out through this detailed review!
To provide an honest and detailed take on the NVG343BQ, I used it for more than a month with a Kinetic 1 Gig internet plan. I judged the device on several parameters like speed, reliability, WiFi coverage, and more. Let’s begin the NVG343BQ review with specifications!
Arris NVG343BQ Specs
| Technology | xDSL |
| Ports | 4 GigE + 1 USB 2.0 + ONT + DSL/Broadband |
| Suitable Internet Plan | 500 Mbps or higher |
| Modem-Router Combo | Yes |
| Wireless Standard | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11n & 802.11ac) |
| Wi-Fi Range | 1500 Sq Ft |
| Connections Capacity | Up to 15 Devices |
| App Support | No |
| QoS Functionality | Unknown |
| MU-MIMO | Unknown |
| Processor | Dual-core chipset |
| RAM | Unknown |
| NAND Storage | 128MB |
| Dimensions | 5 x 1.1 x 7 inches |
| Weight | 3 pounds |
Arris NVG343BQ Review
Note: Gateways are slightly underwhelming as compared to separate modems and routers. So, for better performance, better get a standalone modem and a wireless router for Windstream.
Arris NVG343BQ Speeds
Arris NVG343BQ uses xDSL technology which encompasses several DSL (Digital Service Line) service options and provides faster internet speeds, 100 times faster than analog modems. Theoretically, the device is capable of reaching 1000 Mbps. Also, there’s no channel bonding, which suggests it’s not a cable modem.
The device encloses a Wi-Fi 5 dual-band router bolstered further by beamforming and can handle speeds up to 650 Mbps and 200 Mbps, respectively. Also, it covers up to 1,500 Sq ft which is approximately the size of a house or a small workspace.
Now, I tested this modem-router combo by connecting multiple devices, including Smart TV, Xbox, and other mobile devices, directly with the modem and wirelessly. And to my surprise, the device performed exceedingly well. Direct connection with the modem yielding speeds up to 800 Mbps for downloads and 150 Mbps for uploads.
Arris NVG343BQ speed was a tad low when connected wirelessly, with respective band-wise speeds clocked up to 500 Mbps and 100 Mbps. However, I experienced almost no visible lags or latencies, even running 7-8 devices simultaneously, and performed tasks like 4K streaming and video conferencing. However, moving a bit farther from the device, dropped the speeds by 70-80 Mbps.
ISP Compatibility & Service Plan Suitability
The xDSL technology and available fiber-specific ONT port make the device an ideal fit for most Kinetic broadband plans by Windstream and CenturyLink. Although you must use plans higher than 500 Mbps to get the entirety of the device, it’s good enough to accommodate low-speed and budget-friendly internet plans.
Design & Connectivity
The dimensions of Arris NVG343BQ tags at 5 x 1 x 7 inches and weigh nearly 3 pounds, which is a tad heavier than any traditional modem. Its chassis isn’t much appealing with a hardened plastic layout, but despite that, the device manages to keep itself cool, courtesy of its well-ventilated design.
Besides that, there are four LED lights in the front that denotes whether the device is in proper working condition or not.
Arris has been lenient in terms of connectivity options, with four Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 USB 2.0, ONT, and DSL ports each. With multiple Ethernet ports, you can plug your devices directly into the modem and experience high speeds.
And, with USB 2.0, you can connect peripherals like printers, wireless routers, and others, which further adds to your convenience.
Hardware & Performance
Arris NVG468MQ is powered by a fast dual-core processor which is capable of running multiple processes at a time, thereby boosting the overall modem’s performance. Plus, with 128MB NAND storage, your network data remains stored and allows you to expand and grow your network much easier, thereby reducing network traffic and increasing speed.
Arris, however, hasn’t been much vocal about the hardware it integrates into this gateway, but I didn’t experience any visible lags or latencies when tested on Windstream 500 Internet plan.
Arris NVG468MQ Setup
Setting up Arris NVG468MQ is rather uncomplicated and is doable even for people who aren’t much into technology, like my grandpa. You just need to plug the gateway into your computer, access the Arris login page, enter your username and password, and viola! You’re ready to connect and start working.
I used the Arris NVG468MQ while setting up Windstream internet at home, it worked quite smoothly and activating the same was a breeze.
Additional Features
Security is a key concern when connecting with multiple devices at once, and Arris has made sure your database and network remain secure when pairing with the gateway. Although they didn’t reveal anything about it, as far as I’ve seen, you can check the connected devices, remove any unwanted ones, and your passwords remain stored in encrypted form.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Faster speed
- Better connectivity options
- Easy to set up
- Secured device
- Efficient processor
Cons
- Bulky design
- The USB port isn’t fast
Frequently Asked Questions
Arris NVG343BQ is a modem-router combo that supports speeds of up to 1 Gbps when connected using wires while 600-700 Mbps when connected wirelessly.
The default username for a Windstream router is admin, and its password is printed on the packaging. Enter the correct user credentials, hit Enter, and now you have full control over the modem-router combo.
With NVG343BQ, you can connect up to 7-8 devices simultaneously with Wi-Fi and three devices directly plugged into the gateway.
Verdict
That's all for my review of the Arris NVG343BQ. I hope with this article helps you make a viable purchase decision and use this device in the way it’s intended. Overall, if you want a DSL modem-router gateway that doesn’t dig a hole in your pocket, then it’s a good choice. And there’s a reliable USB port that makes the device more versatile than other DSL modems in the retail space.
