I heard a mention on the show of how Comcast modems force people to have a "public" WiFi that could compromise security and lead to some other problems such as slower internet speeds. Logan said he replaced his, but I dont remember what type of modem he mentioned using (if he even specified).
I use my internet to: study online school videos, play many different video games, watch streaming twitch video, video conferencing, netflix, youtube, etc.
I use private internet access...for securing financial transactions...Should I use something else (in adition too PIA/ replacement of PIA)?
Please provide any resources that could help me learn how to secure my internet to a standard that an everyday person would need to protect against fraud or invasive practices of ISPs designed to data-mine my online activities.
That's true about the new Comcast modem/routers. To replace your modem, just get a Motorola SURFboard, they also have a model that includes a router if you need it. PIA is good, that is what I use, it protects you from the ISP viewing your traffic and inserting tracking code into your packets. You can set it up on your router so that is always on and works for all devices on your network.
If you really wanted to be secure you should set up a pfSense machine and set it up where the whole network is attached to PIA. Then you don't have to run software on all your devices, it automatically tunnels it all through the VPN. pfSense also has a handful of other advantages over a normal router.
That is in their all in one wifi-router / modems ....
I would recommend buying your own Motorolla Surf Board 6121 or 6141 docsys 3.0 modem and your own wifi router with gigabit ports ... cheaper in the long run and no Comcast shenanigans.
Make you aren't required to use it for TV. I wanted to replace my FiOS router, but they said since I got TV, a Verizon router was required. Does anyone know if this is true?
I'm assuming you need a modem+router, because if you just get a modem you can just hook up one wired device. Purchasing a separate router and modem gives you more flexibility and upgrade options down the road (the current generation of DOCSIS 3.0 modems will not be outdated anytime soon, while routers get outdated more frequently) however a single device is cheaper up front, and easier to deal with.
Usually I would recommend Motorola for a cable modem but their newer ones with built in wireless have major firmware bugs due to their merger with Arris. The Motorola modems that don't have built in WiFi are fine. I've been using my SB6120 (now an outdated model) for years and it gets pushed hard every day no problem and I got it used. Oh, and don't buy a used cable modem :) Not being a hypocrite just saving you a ton of BS because if the previous customer didn't remove it from their Comcast, Cox, TWC, etc. account you can't register it to your account and you have something that isn't even heavy enough to be a good doorstop or paperweight.
Here would be my recommendation for a cost effective all in one unit.
I see on Amazon that there are several third-party sellers that have it for a few cents cheaper than Amazon directly but I'd recommend paying the difference and buying it from Amazon.com directly for the easiest returns if it shows up dead (it happens) or doesn't work well. That option is on the right side under "Other Sellers on Amazon" for $122.99.
If you wanted to go with the separate modem and router here are my recommendations. As I mentioned above the main benefit to going separate is having greater control over the features of the router and flexibility of upgrading the router without buying a new modem as well. It's just significantly more expensive and usually a bit overkill. Sure, you could get the nice modem and a really cheap wireless router but then you may as well stick with the crap Comcast gives you.
If you do buy anything please keep in mind that you'll need to provide Comcast the hardware address aka "MAC Address" (nothing to do with Mac computers) of the modem so they can activate it on your account.
Hope this is helpful!
PS: Comcast's modem list is a good start but it's not the definitive guide to buying a modem some people think it is.
Verizon FiOS is a combination of VDSL and fiber - it's similar to AT&T's U-Verse service. Comcast, which the OP seems to be using, uses a DOCSIS 3.0 cable network. You can not use any other modem than the ISP provided one on AT&T U-Verse or Verizon FiOS.
I like this idea. I have heard them mention that on the show. I am not very educated so I would need some resources to teach me how, but I am very interested.
I had tons of connection problems trying to use wireless (my house is made of wifi blocking materials...prolly asbestos in the walls)
Then my SB6141 died after several months of simultaneous XBOX 360, PC gaming, torrents, and streaming video. I failed to redeem a warranty replacement in time because I forgot about it. I put it with all my other dead electronics in the closet.