When signing up with Spectrum internet service, you can either set up a professional installation appointment or order a self-install kit shipped to your home or for pickup from a Spectrum retail location.

If you’ve decided to self-install, the process should go smoothly, provided you are comfortable with technology equipment. It will also help if you’re the account owner. Self-installation gives you the flexibility to make your own schedule and also will leave you with a solid understanding of how your internet equipment works.

We’ll review steps below but one thing you can do before opening a box is to download the My Spectrum App, which you’ll use to pay your bill, schedule a service appointment if necessary, and manage your account from your phone or tablet. Go to your device’s app store(Google Play or Apple Store) and download. Sign in with your Spectrum Username and password. Don’t have a username or password yet? Not a problem; the app will prompt you for this information. Make sure you store your new login credentials somewhere (a) safe; and (b) very easy for you to locate at any given time.

• The Box Kit Components include the modem, Wi-Fi router (this can be a combined unit), power cord, coaxial cable, Ethernet cable, and a detailed manual. Additional items might be present based on the bundle type.
• Initial Setup Modem Connection First, attach one end of the coaxial cable to your wall's cable outlet. Connect its other end to your modem. If you're also using a Spectrum TV Receiver, consider using a coax splitter. Once connected, power up your modem by plugging it into an electrical socket. Wait for the modem's indicator light to stabilize from blinking to a steady glow. This might take between 2 to 20 minutes, especially if a firmware update is in progress.
• Phone Setup (Optional) If you're setting up a home phone, ensure it's powered on. Connect your phone to the modem using the phone cable, linking it to the 'Voice port 1'. For a second line, use the 'port 2' on the modem.
• Router Connection Next, link your WiFi router to the modem using the Ethernet cable. Plug the router into a power source and wait for its status light to turn green, which might take up to 10 minutes. If there's no indication, toggle the power switch or try unplugging and replugging the router.
• Device Connection For wireless connectivity, refer to the label on your Spectrum equipment for the default WiFi network name (SSID) and password. On your device (be it a smartphone, laptop, or tablet):
• Access WiFi settings Choose the default WiFi Network Name from the list. Input the password found on your Spectrum equipment.
• Service Activation Head to Spectrum.net/selfinstall on your device and follow the displayed steps. Alternatively, use the My Spectrum App for activation. Once connected to the network, launch a web browser, and you should be directed to the Spectrum activation page. Log in with your Spectrum credentials or set up a new account, then proceed as instructed.
• Wi-Fi Router Tip Place the WiFi router in a central location in your home; not behind a door, at the back of a bookshelf, or in a corner. Ideally, you want your modem, router and primary device such as laptop or desktop computer in close proximity so that you can routinely monitor your router lights and your Wifi lights. Don’t place your router near the following devices because they will interfere with the signal: baby monitors, microwaves, and wireless headsets.

  Spectrum offers good documentation to help you through this process but if you’re stuck you can use the My Spectrum App feature, “Chat With Us” for live support, or call for help at 833-224-6603. You will have to work through the prompts but will reach technical assistance if you are patient. One thing is sure: after you finish the self-install you will definitely know what connects to what and why. This is great knowledge to have down the road if suddenly your connection is interrupted one day and you have to troubleshoot it.