Cons: Regularly drops the interconnect connection (1-3/mth)
The Bottom Line: Conclusion
The BEFCMU10 is a good cable modem, it does have a problem with dropped connections but the modem is still usable. And its performance is comparable to other modems.
blakdogg's Full Review: Linksys BEFCMU10 Cable Modem
I purchased my Linksys modem almost three years ago, and I have used it for close to two years. I first purchased the modem when I switched from dial up to cable, using Comcast as my provider. After about 18 months I switched to RCN and a Toshiba PCX modem, but switched back to my Linksys after a year.
Installation and Configuration
Installing a cable modem is simple the two biggest issues are ensuring the ISP adds the modem to the network, and ensuring the modem recognizes the computer. The first requires a call to the ISP, and is more of an ISP issue. The second is done automatically when the computer is rebooted. As a result getting online with a BEFCMU10 v2.0 is quite easy, mainly because the modem is supported by most ISPs.
The modem is pretty much plug and play, once you start using it you should be able to leave it alone. Unfortunately, the BEFCMU10's biggest flaw is that it often drops the connection. Recovering the connection usually requires power cycling the modem, the computer and router if it is part of the network. On the Comcast network the modem would lock up two or three times a month, forcing the annoying ritual of power cycling my network. This problem is less frequent on RCN, with only one failure over the last month. But the Toshiba it replaces went for months without requiring a reboot.
Performance and Reliability
The performance of a cable internet connection is determined by a lot of factors, the cable modem used is just one of these factors. My current provider (RCN) claims a maximum 7.0 Mbps download speed, but I've only observed 1.4-1.6 Mbps. This discrepancy is probably not due to the modem, as the Toshiba's performance was not any better.
The modem still works after 3 years, including more than one year in storage. Aside from the fact that it regularly drops the connection, the BEFCMU10 has no reliability issues. It doesn't run too hot, it doesn't make any noise, and it can be left running for years on end ... literally.
An interesting point to note is that Linksys still sells this modem, but mine was purchased two years ago. This exact model is still being sold, which means that it hasn't changed or Linksys doesn't differentiate between the various versions. This is a problem if there were a problem with the modem and they fixed in later versions.
USB or Ethernet connection Up to 42 Mbps download speeds, 10 Mbps upload "Always On" connection; no more busy signals or timeouts Vertical footprint m...More at Amazon Marketplace
USB or Ethernet connection Up to 42 Mbps download speeds, 10 Mbps upload "Always On" connection; no more busy signals or timeouts Vertical footprint m...More at Amazon
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