Self-Install
Frequently Asked Questions

Self-install is pretty straightforward--it's similar to getting a new tv, game console, tablet or computer out of the box and setting it up on your own. If you (or someone in your home) are comfortable with that, you’ll be able to install and set up your TDS service.  However, there are a couple of requirements you should be aware of before you choose self-installation.

• You must be a current TDS customer, or your address must have had TDS service in the past.
  
  • Our Sales representatives can look up your address and tell you whether or not your location has had TDS service previously to assess eligibility.
    
• The inside wiring must already be pre-installed and working where you want the service in your home.
  
  • If you want to add additional outlets in your home or change the location of the active outlet, a self-installation will not work, you’ll need to schedule a technician to assist with the installation.
  • For Fiber services, your home must be equipped with an ONT (Optical Network Terminal).
  • For Cable services, your home must have at least one Coax outlet, or coax cable coming into the home.

Cable/Coax

1. What kind of inside wiring does my home need to have to be able to use the self-install option?
   
   • Your home must be equipped with at least one coax outlet to connect to our services. Most coax outlets look like the one pictured below, however, there might be a coax cable coming from the floor or the wall without the wall plate.
     
   • You’ll need a coax cable and power cable for the modem to connect your equipment to the inside wiring. If you plan on using an external router or wish to connect a device directly to the modem or router, you’ll need an ethernet cable as well. TDS provides these connection cables in the self-install kit if you choose to rent a modem from us.
2. I’m a current TDS customer who is moving my service to a new home, what equipment do I need to bring with me?
   
   • The cable modem (whether it is one that TDS provided, or one that you own), coax cable, ethernet cable(s), and power cable(s) used at the previous location.
3. What modem and router options does TDS offer?
   
   • Our modem rental option provides you with a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem with a built-in wireless router. We also offer stand-alone modems that include an advanced Wi-Fi mesh equipment system for an added price.
4. I want to purchase my own equipment for internet services. What kind of equipment do I need?
   Please note that while our network allows various 3rd party cable modems, our support is limited when it comes to our ability to diagnose and troubleshoot this equipment.
   
   • DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem.
     • i. Some modems have built in Wi-Fi routers, while others are modems only; which means a separate Wi-Fi router would be needed alongside the modem.
   • You’ll also need a coax cable to hook your modem up to our services. Your home must be equipped with a coax outlet/jack.
5. Am I able to connect a router of my choice to a TDS modem if I need to enhance my Wi-Fi network capabilities?
   
   • Yes! However, to avoid potential signal troubles, you would need to disable the Wi-Fi network in the TDS modem* or get a TDS modem that does not have built-in Wi-Fi.
   • For the router, you’ll want to buy a "router only" device--do not get a router that has an integrated DSL or cable modem built into it. Any router suitable for "home/home office" should work well. We encourage you to research and review options that work best for your desired home network setup and speed requirements.
     *If you need assistance with disabling the Wi-Fi network in a TDS modem, please contact technical support at (1-888-225-5837).

Phone

What equipment and inside wiring do I need?

• TDS just provides the phone service without the equipment. However, if our records show your location has had TDS phone/DSL service in the past, then the inside wiring should already be present.
  
• You’ll need to provide your own phone equipment; corded or cordless both work, there are many home phone options out there.