Unfortunately I have no alternative to Rogers in my area. I've been experiencing trouble and general irritation with the provided SMC modem, so I'm returning it and buying my own.

Pardon my ignorance here, I've no idea what DOCSIS really is, and how it works, so if these questions seem dumb I apologise in advance.

I looked at the list of compatible Rogers modems and found the Motorola SB5101, which is inexpensive and readily available, so I ordered one from NCIX.com. After checking the specs, it's DOCSIS 2.0 compliant, but not 3.0. For that I'd have to upgrade to the SB6120, which I have no problem doing, but I'm not sure if it will work with my current set up.

I live in Ottawa, area code K1S, so I'm not slated for the 3.0 upgrade anytime soon as far as I know. My options are:

1) Keep the SB5101 when it arrives (I just ordered it recently). If so, will it work with the 3.0 network? I'm guessing not, which means I'll have to buy another new modem if/when they upgrade the network in my area.
2) Return the SB5101 and order the SB6120 right now. If so, will the 3.0 modem work with my 2.0 network connection?

I already have a router from my previous DSL set up, so that's not an issue. My main concern is whether or not the modem I buy will be compatible for more than a few weeks.

I doubt Rogers will activate any 3rd party modems. It is an authorization issue since the serial number of your purchased unit will not be in the database and apparently Rogers are unable or unwilling to change that.:(

They do support third party modems, I've already confirmed that with Rogers and by looking on forums for others using third party modems. It's not a matter of authorization, just of compatibility :)

If you look at the product page for the SB6120, you'll find that it's backwards compatible for DOCSIS 1.x and 2.0. Here's the link:

http://www.motorola.com/Business/US-EN/Business+Product+and+Services/Cable+Broadband/SURFboard+Modems+and+Gateways/Cable+Modems/Motorola+SURFboard+SB6120_US-EN?vgnextoid=372c8989c5d5a110VgnVCM1000008406b00aRCRD

Hope this helps.