Are you considering upgrading your home Wi-Fi system and wondering if Eero will work with your Xfinity internet service? You’re not alone – many people have asked this question as mesh networks like Eero have become more popular.
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely use Eero mesh Wi-Fi routers and extenders with Xfinity internet. But to get the most out of the combination, there are some things you’ll need to know.
There are two ways to set up eero with Xfinity:
- Behind your existing router: This is the simplest setup method. Simply connect your eero Gateway to your Xfinity router with an Ethernet cable. Then, place your eero units throughout your home to extend your Wi-Fi coverage.
- In bridge mode: This setup method gives you more control over your network, but it is more complex. To set up eero in bridge mode, you will need to log in to your Xfinity router and disable the router’s Wi-Fi. Then, connect your eero Gateway to your Xfinity router with an Ethernet cable. Finally, place your eero units throughout your home to extend your Wi-Fi coverage.
What is Eero and How Does it Work?
Eero is a consumer mesh Wi-Fi system designed to blanket your home in fast, reliable Wi-Fi coverage. Here are some key things to know about Eero:
The key advantage of Eero is whole-home Wi-Fi coverage without dead zones. It’s an appealing option if your current router has spotty coverage in parts of your house.
What Internet Plans and Equipment Does Xfinity Offer?
Xfinity is a brand name for Comcast’s digital cable TV, internet, and phone services. When it comes to internet, Xfinity offers a range of speed tiers from basic to gigabit.
Some popular Xfinity internet plans include:
Xfinity internet customers get an Xfinity gateway modem/router combo device to connect their home network. Two popular models are:
The xFi gateways have built-in speed test tools, parental controls, and network security. You can manage settings with the Xfinity xFi app.
Is Eero Compatible with Xfinity Equipment and Service?
The good news is Eero is designed to be compatible with most major internet service providers, including Xfinity.
Specifically, Eero will work with Xfinity cable internet services that use a compatible modem like the xFi Gateway. All you have to do is connect your Eero router to the Xfinity modem.
It is also possible to use Eero with Xfinity fiber optic internet, but you may need Xfinity’s advanced networking gateway modem. Some older DSL-based Xfinity services may not be compatible.
No matter what type of Xfinity service you have, the first step is checking that your modem is compatible with Eero. As long as you have a compatible modem, Eero will work just fine with Xfinity internet.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Eero with Xfinity
Follow these steps to connect your Eero mesh system to Xfinity internet:
1. Choose your Eero equipment
Eero offers several packages to meet different needs:
The basic Eero is a good place to start for many homes. Be sure to get enough nodes to cover the size of your space.
2. Locate your Xfinity gateway
Find the Xfinity modem/router combo unit that connects to your cable line and provides the Wi-Fi signal. This is usually near where the cable line enters your home.
If you have Xfinity equipment leased from Comcast, it is probably one of their gateway devices.
3. Connect Eero to your gateway
Run an Ethernet cable from an open LAN port on the Xfinity gateway to the WAN port on the Eero base station. This connects the Eero network to your Xfinity internet.
4. Place additional Eero nodes
Start with one Eero connected to your gateway, then add more nodes around your home where Wi-Fi coverage is needed. Eero says nodes need to be within 40 feet of each other.
5. Set up the Eero app
Download the Eero app (iOS or Android) and follow the setup prompts:
Once set up, devices will connect to your Eero network instead of Xfinity Wi-Fi. Manage settings anytime in the app.
Tips for Getting the Best Eero Performance with Xfinity
Here are some tips to maximize performance and stability when using Eero with Xfinity:
Following these tips will help ensure you get fast, reliable whole-home Wi-Fi when using Eero with Xfinity internet. Be sure to also consider placement of your Xfinity modem.
How Does Eero Compare to the Xfinity xFi Gateway?
Since Xfinity includes an xFi gateway modem/router with their service, you may be wondering how Eero compares. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Feature | Eero | Xfinity xFi Gateway |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi standard | Dual or tri-band Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 | Dual or tri-band Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 |
| Max speeds | 300 Mbps to 1 Gbps | 600 Mbps to 1.2 Gbps |
| Coverage | Up to 1500 – 2500 sq ft per node | Up to 1800 sq ft |
| Network architecture | Mesh | Single router |
| Setup | App-based, simple | Browser-based, more complex |
| Parental controls | Yes | Yes |
| Cybersecurity | Eero Secure subscription ($2.99/month) | Xfinity xFi Advanced Security free |
| Mobile app | Eero app | xFi app |
The biggest differences are Eero’s mesh architecture for wider coverage and simpler app-based setup process. However, the xFi Gateway still provides robust Wi-Fi capabilities.
Eero makes more sense if you need to expand Wi-Fi coverage across a very large home or have dead zones. For modest-sized homes, the Xfinity gateway may be sufficient.
Pros and Cons of Using Eero with Xfinity
Here are some of the benefits of adding Eero to your Xfinity internet:
Some downsides and limitations to consider:
Overall, Eero makes it easy to upgrade your home Wi-Fi experience. Just weigh the benefits versus the additional costs when deciding if it’s right for your needs.
Conclusion: Eero + Xfinity FAQs
Can I return Xfinity equipment if I use Eero?
No, you still need an Xfinity modem to get internet service. Eero replaces the Wi-Fi router functionality, not the modem itself.
Do I have to pay monthly fees to use Eero?
No monthly fee is required, but Eero Secure ($2.99/month) adds advanced security features.
What’s the best Eero for Xfinity gigabit service?
The tri-band Eero Pro 6 supports gigabit Xfinity speeds up to 500 Mbps over Wi-Fi.
Does Eero improve Xfinity Internet speeds?
It can provide faster Wi-Fi speeds by using newer technology. But internet speeds depend on your Xfinity plan.
Is Eero easy to set up with Xfinity?
Yes, the Eero app makes it simple to connect Eero to your Xfinity gateway and set up your Wi-Fi network.
Can I control Eero through the Xfinity app?
No, you need to use the separate Eero app to manage and monitor your Eero Wi-Fi network.
Will Eero fix Xfinity Wi-Fi dead zones?
Eero’s mesh nodes are designed to eliminate dead zones. But be sure to place nodes within range of each other.
So in summary – yes, Eero mesh Wi-Fi systems are compatible with Xfinity internet service. With some thoughtful setup and placement, Eero + Xfinity can provide fast, reliable whole-home Wi-Fi coverage.
