Arris Surfboard SBG6700AC Review: A Comprehensive Look
The Arris Surfboard SBG6700AC is a popular choice among modem/router combo devices, offering a blend of high-speed performance, robust security, and user-friendly features. This comprehensive review will delve into the SBG6700AC's key aspects, helping you make an informed decision about whether it's the right choice for your connectivity needs.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon unboxing the SBG6700AC, you'll find a sleek, modern device with a compact footprint, making it easy to place in various settings. The modem/router combo sports a glossy, black finish with subtle, angular design elements, giving it a premium feel. The device comes with a power adapter, Ethernet cable, and a quick start guide to help you set up your new modem/router combo seamlessly.
Key Features and Specifications
| Feature/Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Modem | DOCSIS 3.0, up to 686 Mbps download speeds, 16x4 channel bonding |
| Router | 802.11ac Wi-Fi, up to 1600 Mbps (867 Mbps on 5GHz, 600 Mbps on 2.4GHz), dual-band |
| Ports | 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 1 USB 2.0 port |
| Security | WPA/WPA2 wireless security, SPI firewall, DoS protection, VPN passthrough |
Modem Performance
The SBG6700AC's modem component delivers reliable, high-speed performance, thanks to its DOCSIS 3.0 technology and 16x4 channel bonding. This modem is compatible with most major cable internet providers, making it a versatile choice for various connectivity plans. In our tests, the modem consistently provided stable, fast connections, with download speeds reaching close to the advertised 686 Mbps.
Router Performance
The SBG6700AC's router component is equally impressive, offering dual-band Wi-Fi with speeds up to 1600 Mbps. The 5GHz band is ideal for bandwidth-intensive tasks like 4K streaming and online gaming, while the 2.4GHz band caters to older devices and provides better range for larger homes. The router's four Gigabit Ethernet ports allow for wired connections to multiple devices simultaneously, ensuring lag-free performance for critical tasks.
Security and Parental Controls
The SBG6700AC comes equipped with robust security features, including WPA/WPA2 wireless security, a SPI firewall, and DoS protection. Additionally, the device supports VPN passthrough, enabling secure remote access to your network. The modem/router combo also offers parental controls, allowing you to manage and monitor connected devices, set access schedules, and block inappropriate content.
Setup and User Experience
Setting up the SBG6700AC is a breeze, thanks to its user-friendly interface and clear, on-screen instructions. Once connected to your cable internet service, the device automatically configures itself, and you can access its settings using the web-based interface or the SURFboard Central app. The app provides real-time network monitoring, allows you to manage connected devices, and offers quick access to parental controls.
Final Thoughts
The Arris Surfboard SBG6700AC is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-performance, feature-rich modem/router combo. Its impressive speed, robust security, and user-friendly design make it a strong contender in the competitive connectivity market. Whether you're a casual internet user or a power user with bandwidth-intensive needs, the SBG6700AC is sure to deliver a seamless, reliable connection experience.
