The renewed Actiontec C3000A is a bonded VDSL2/G.fast gateway router built for CenturyLink internet service. It works as both a modem and a router in one device, eliminating the need for separate hardware and ending the $15 per month CenturyLink equipment rental fee. Plug it in, open a browser, and the built-in Auto-Detect Wizard configures your connection automatically, no technician visit required.

Key Takeaways

• Bonded VDSL2/G.fast gateway supporting CenturyLink ADSL, ADSL2+, VDSL2, and Fiber (GPON) across FTTN, FTTdp, FTTB, and FTTP deployments.
• Modem and dual-band WiFi router in one, with SmartSteering that moves devices to the strongest band automatically.
• Also used on Brightspeed DSL in former CenturyLink territories (confirm with your provider before ordering).
• Replaces rented gateway equipment, typically saving $180 per year, and is Grade A renewed with a 90-day full coverage warranty.

Is the Actiontec C3000A Compatible with My Internet Provider?

The C3000A is built for CenturyLink and supports ADSL, ADSL2+, VDSL2, and Fiber (GPON) connections across FTTN, FTTdp, FTTB, and FTTP deployments. It is also used on Brightspeed DSL service in the former CenturyLink territories Brightspeed now operates. We recommend confirming compatibility with your specific local service plan before purchasing, since deployment types vary by address.

The C3000A does not work with cable internet (Xfinity, Spectrum, Cox), Verizon Fios, AT&T service, satellite, or 5G home internet. It connects through a telephone-style DSL wall jack or a CenturyLink fiber ONT, not a coaxial jack.

Actiontec C3000A vs GreenWave C4000LG

Both are CenturyLink gateway routers, and the right pick depends on your line type and WiFi needs. The C3000A supports bonded (two-line) DSL and G.fast, which the single-line C4000LG does not, so if CenturyLink or Brightspeed delivers your plan over a bonded pair, the C3000A is the one to buy. The C4000LG counters with newer WiFi 6 wireless, while the C3000A uses dual-band 802.11ac (WiFi 5). If your line is standard single-pair DSL and you have a house full of wireless devices, consider the GreenWave C4000LG instead. Not sure which line type you have? Your provider can tell you, or check your current gateway's model number.

Speed and WiFi Performance

The C3000A delivers throughput up to 6 Gbps using pair-bonding technology. Dual-band 802.11ac WiFi operates on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz simultaneously, and SmartSteering automatically moves your devices to whichever band provides the strongest signal. That keeps 4K streaming, online gaming, and video calls stable in homes with 15 or more connected devices.

Setup and Management

Getting online with the C3000A takes minutes. The Auto-Detect Wizard identifies your CenturyLink service type and configures the modem for you. Once connected, the Optim Agent software provides whole-home WiFi management, letting you monitor connected devices, adjust settings, and optimize coverage from one dashboard. TR-069 remote management support also means CenturyLink can help troubleshoot issues without sending a technician to your home. For a full walkthrough, see our Actiontec C3000A Setup Guide, which covers activation, WiFi password changes, and fixes for the most common issues.

Security

The C3000A includes WPA3 encryption alongside WPA and WPA2 for backward compatibility. A built-in stateful packet inspection (SPI) firewall with DoS protection guards against common network attacks. Parental controls let you filter websites and log intrusion attempts, and DMZ support with password attack prevention keeps your private network isolated from external threats.

Certifications and Mesh Support

The C3000A is WiFi Alliance certified with support for EasyConnect, Agile Multiband, and EasyMesh, making it ready to serve as the foundation of a mesh WiFi system if you need to expand coverage later.

Actiontec C3000A Specs at a Glance

Technology	Bonded VDSL2 / G.fast / Fiber (GPON)
WiFi Standard	802.11ac dual-band (WiFi 5)
Max Throughput	6 Gbps
Compatible Providers	CenturyLink (ADSL / ADSL2+ / VDSL2 / Fiber); used on Brightspeed DSL
Security	WPA / WPA2 / WPA3, SPI firewall, DoS protection
Mesh Support	EasyMesh, EasyConnect, Agile Multiband certified
Management	TR-069, Optim Managed WiFi, Auto-Detect Wizard
Condition	Grade A Certified Renewed

Save on Modem Rental Fees

CenturyLink charges around $15 per month to lease its gateway, which adds up to $180 a year for equipment you could own. At its current price, this renewed C3000A pays for itself in about six months, and everything after that is savings. If your rented gateway is aging or dropping connections, our guide on how long modems last covers the signs it is time to replace it.

What's in the Box

• Actiontec C3000A DSL modem router (Renewed)
• Power supply unit
• High-speed Ethernet cable
• DSL / phone cable
• Installation manual
• ModemGuides Activation Guarantee

Why Buy the Actiontec C3000A from ModemGuides

• 90-day full coverage warranty on every modem we sell, including this renewed C3000A.
• Activation Guarantee: if this modem will not activate on your compatible plan, we make it right.
• USA-based customer service and tech support staffed by people who actually know networking gear.
• Fast shipping from US warehouses, so most orders arrive in 1 to 3 business days.
• Setup and troubleshooting guides available across ModemGuides.com, including a dedicated C3000A setup guide.
• Small US business that puts customer experience first, with real humans answering your questions.

Actiontec C3000A Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Actiontec C3000A compatible with CenturyLink?

Yes. The C3000A is built for CenturyLink and supports ADSL, ADSL2+, VDSL2, and Fiber (GPON) connections. Its Auto-Detect Wizard identifies your CenturyLink service type and configures itself automatically.

Does the Actiontec C3000A work with Brightspeed?

The C3000A is used on Brightspeed DSL service in the former CenturyLink territories Brightspeed now operates. If you are a Brightspeed customer, confirm the C3000A is approved for your plan and address before ordering.

What is bonded DSL and do I need it?

Bonded DSL combines two copper pairs into one faster connection, and some CenturyLink and Brightspeed plans are delivered this way. The C3000A supports bonded VDSL2, so it works on both bonded and standard single-line plans. If you are unsure which you have, your provider can tell you.

Is the Actiontec C3000A WiFi 6?

No. The C3000A uses dual-band 802.11ac, which is WiFi 5. It handles 4K streaming and busy households well, but if you specifically want WiFi 6 on a single-line CenturyLink or Brightspeed plan, the GreenWave C4000LG is the newer-wireless option.

Does the C3000A work with CenturyLink fiber?

Yes. The C3000A supports GPON fiber deployments (FTTP) in addition to DSL. Fiber setups vary by address, so confirm with CenturyLink that the C3000A is approved for your specific fiber plan before ordering.

Is the C3000A a modem and a router?

Yes. The C3000A is an all-in-one gateway with a built-in dual-band WiFi router, so you do not need a separate router unless you prefer to use your own.

Can the C3000A work in a mesh WiFi system?

Yes. The C3000A is EasyMesh certified, so it can act as the foundation of a compatible mesh system if you want to expand WiFi coverage later.

How do I set up the Actiontec C3000A?

Connect the DSL cable, plug in power, and open a browser. The Auto-Detect Wizard configures your CenturyLink connection automatically. Our free Actiontec C3000A Setup Guide walks through activation, WiFi password changes, and the most common fixes.

Is this C3000A new or refurbished?

This C3000A is Grade A Certified Renewed. Every unit is professionally tested and cleaned, then backed by our 90-day full coverage warranty and Activation Guarantee.

What happens if the modem stops working?

If anything goes wrong within the first 90 days, contact our USA-based support team and we will troubleshoot, replace, or refund. We stand behind every modem we ship.