For 1,200 Mbps cable internet, you need a modem and a router with a 2.5 Gbps internet (WAN) port and a CAT 5e cable or newer. Modems and routers with a Gigabit Ethernet port for internet stay around 940 Mbps in real-world speed—maybe a little faster on a good day. So, for those two reasons, Astound requires customers to rent compatible equipment for now—presumably, while it tests store-bought modems with its new plan.