If you are already a subscriber or planning to subscribe to Frontier internet or Internet + Voice services, you need a compatible and efficient modem, modem-router combo, or a gateway device. And one such device is Arris NVG468MQ. But is it any good for 2024?
The features like multiple Ethernet ports, dual-band WiFi, and technology like MOCA 2.0 make NVG468MQ a versatile networking device to use with Frontier. Please continue reading to know how it performs across several parameters like speed, consistency, Wi-Fi coverage, etc.
Arris NVG468MQ Specs
| Technology | Concurrent WiFi (802.11b/g/n and 802.11ac), MOCA 2.0 |
| Ports | Single 10/100/1000 Ethernet |
| Suitable Internet Plan | Up to 700 Mbps |
| Modem-Router Combo | No |
| Built-in Router Speed | 600 Mbps |
| Wi-Fi Range | Up to 1,500 Sq Ft |
| Connections Capacity | Up to 20 devices |
| App Support | Yes |
| QoS Functionality | Yes |
| MU-MIMO | Yes |
| Processor | Not Found |
| RAM | Not Found |
| NAND Storage | Not Found |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 8 x 2.4 inches |
| Weight | 2.49 pounds |
Arris NVG468MQ Review
How did I come up with this NVG468MQ review?
I have used this device for over three weeks, paired with a top-tier plan from Frontier internet. I have monitored its performance in several situations. Now, it’s time for me to share my experiences and thoughts about this gateway in the following review of the ARRIS NVG468MQ.
Arris NVG468MQ Speeds
Arris NVG468MQ residential gateway features a MOCA 2.0 LAN interface to connect compatible devices and set-tops with a maximum speed capacity of 600 Mbps. MOCA 2.0 can keep pace and distribute greater broadband services by fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) or DOCSIS 3.0 deployments. In other words, it’s more future-proof than any traditional modem.
Adding to the key specifications of Arris NVG468MQ, the dual-band concurrent WiFi works in tandem with MIMO technology and delivers a reliable and efficient internet output. Hence it removes the need for wired connections and allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
And as concluded in the Dual-band vs Tri-band comparison, the dual-band wireless (2.4GHz and 5GHz) eliminates potential Wi-Fi dead zones and even covers spotty coverage in areas far-off from the gateway.
Now talking about Arris NVG468MQ WiFi speed, its 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands deliver a maximum of 500 Mbps and 100 Mbps, respectively. But there was a drop in the value when the device was tested in real-time. For 5GHz, the speed clocked up to 400 Mbps, while 100 Mbps with 2.4GHz.
That’s not the fastest device on the market, but the speeds are sufficient to complete your network-based tasks easily. Additionally, QoS support helps eliminate network congestion by throttling or dropping low-priority traffic during peak usage hours and using specific bandwidth so there are no potential network delays.
ISP Compatibility & Service Plan Suitability
This Arris modem-router combo is compatible with Verizon FiOS & Verizon Internet, Windstream, and Frontier FiOS & DSL Internet services in most areas. However, its limited ISP compatibility can be an issue, but thanks to MOCA 2.0 and its backward compatibility, it supports plans from 200-700 Mbps.
Note: But to be on a safer side, before ordering, check with your ISP’s customer service to see if the model is compatible, as it might not support some plans.
Design & Connectivity
Arris NVG468MQ doesn’t boast much of a sleek and clean design, with dimensions tagged at 15.4 x 8 x 2.4 inches. And weighing almost 2.5 pounds makes it a tad heavier than other devices. Nevertheless, its black external covering with a matt finish oozes a premium design and blends perfectly with your house decor and other networking equipment.
Additionally, several heat-dissipating vents on the side panel keep the device cool despite being operational for hours.
The best thing about Frontier Arris NVG468MQ is the versatility it offers concerning connecting devices. There are four gigabit Ethernet ports for connecting peripherals like a wireless router, smart TV, printer, laptop, etc. Connecting directly enables you to utilize the high-bandwidth potential of your network without costing much.
Suggested Read: Guide to Connect a Landline Phone to a Modem
On the other hand, there’s also an option to connect wirelessly with your devices. Its dual-band connection helps you attain higher and consistent speeds in all devices kept across your house, establishing a better network environment.
Hardware & Performance
Arris doesn’t disclose the hardware specifications of Arris NVG468MQ, but during my testing, there were no noticeable lags or latencies. I wired it to my HD TV, security cameras, and mobile gadgets and eased it through media streaming. So rest assured, the device integrates a decent processor and RAM to soldier through your graphics-intensive activities with ease.
Arris NVG468MQ Setup
Now that you have a perfect ISP to suit your modem, it’s time to plug it in to take your webpage browsing experience to a new level. Setting up the modem is simple and doesn’t require you to go through a detailed and complicated process. Follow the Arris NVG468MQ manual to ensure all plugs are connected correctly, and the setup is complete.
Additional Features
The modem that costs you a premium must be packed with security features, and I wasn’t disappointed with this device. Features like WEP encryption, WPA2-PSK, EAP-TTLS, and others keep your connections secured by encrypting your passwords and establishing virtual private networks.
Aside from that, features like Virtual DMZ/IP pass-through, Stateful packet inspection firewall, DoS protection, and others identify and prevent access to potentially dangerous or malicious websites or contents.
Pros & Cons of Arris NVG468MQ
Pros
- Built-in Dual-band WiFi
- Simple setup
- Decent wireless coverage
- Packed with security features
- Decent speeds
Cons
- Sub-par 2.4GHz WiFi speeds
- Limited ISP compatibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Arris NVG468MQ is a modem-router combo that lets you easily connect multiple devices simultaneously and perform bandwidth-intensive tasks.
You will find the Arris NVG468MQ WPS button on its back panel, using which you can connect to a secure wireless network from your computer or any other device easier. Read through the manual to understand its functionality in detail.
By default, the user name and password of Arris NVG468MQ are admin and password, respectively. For security purposes, the manufacturer recommends changing the credentials once you have logged in for the first time.
Arris NVG468MQ bridge mode can be attained by navigating in advanced in the toolbar, selecting connection settings, then transparent bridging, and hitting apply. However, if your Arris NVG468MQ Firmware isn’t updated to its latest version, it might take some time to reach the bridge mode.
There’s no mention of this on the Arris website, but as far as my tests go, you can connect with at most 7-8 devices simultaneously without any lags or network delays.
Verdict
The NVG468MQ with MOCA 2.0 support and other unique features isn’t your traditional Arris modem for your regular internet plans. So, you might want to upgrade it to a high-speed plan if you need to run bandwidth-intensive activities like video streaming, playing games, and others. And most importantly, it’s one of the most aesthetic products, and its vertical orientation lets you place it anywhere.
