Arris SURFboard SBG901 Wireless Cable Modem Gateway Logo
Posted on Apr 13, 2011
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Weird problem. I have a MacBook Pro (Intel Core Duo, OS X 10.6.7) connected to Comcast internet service via a Motorola SBG901 wireless modem/router combo. Via ethernet, this modem/router is fast with download speeds at 15Mbs. If I disconnect the ethernet and use wireless, the speed drops consistently down to 0.5 Mbs (yes, one-half Mbs). Deadly slow. If I access the wireless network with my HP laptop, I get a high speed connection. I've messed endlessly with different settings in the HTML application for the modem/router, but nothing works. It seems like it must be a compatibility issue between the MacBook and the router, but I can't figure it out. Ideas???

  • btopp764 Apr 14, 2011

    Problem solved. The modem/router is designed to automatically select the best channel and defaults to "auto" during installation. In my case it was doing just the opposite and choosing the worst. Enter the HTML utility and experiment with the other channels. Reminder that you have to be connected by ethernet to access the utility, then switch to Airport wireless to run the speed test, then back to the ethernet connection to change the channel.

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  • Posted on Apr 13, 2011
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You will need to contact Comcast. They will reset your service for the new equipment. Things are rarely "plug & play" with Comcast.

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901_2.png

Manual Configuration:
Step 1:
Directly connect your computer to the Motorola SBG901 cable modem via an Ethernet cable. This is needed as enabling security will disconnect the wireless connection until wireless on the computer is properly configured.
Step 2:
Open up your web browser (Example: Internet Explorer) and enter the following URL:

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* Username (all lowercase): admin
* Password (all lowercase): motorola
















































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