Arris SURFboard SBG6900-AC User manual

User Guide
SURFboard
®SBG6900-AC
Wireless Cable Modem & Router

© 2015 ARRIS Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means or used to make any derivative
work (such as translation, transformation, or adaptation) without written permission from ARRIS Enterprises, Inc. (“ARRIS”).
ARRIS reserves the right to revise this publication and to make changes in content from time to time without obligation on the
part of ARRIS to provide notification of such revision or change.
ARRIS, SURFboard, and the ARRIS logo are all trademarks or registered trademarks of ARRIS Enterprises, Inc. Other trademarks
and trade names may be used in this document to refer to either the entities claiming the marks and the names of their
products. ARRIS disclaims proprietary interest in the marks and names of others.
Wi-Fi Alliance®, Wi-Fi®, the Wi-Fi logo, the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo, Wi-Fi Protected Access®(WPA), the Wi-Fi Protected Setup logo,
and WMM®are registered trademarks of Wi-Fi Alliance. Wi-Fi Protected Setup™, Wi-Fi Multimedia™, and WPA2™ are
trademarks of Wi-Fi Alliance.
ARRIS provides this guide without warranty of any kind, implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. ARRIS may make improvements or changes in the
product(s) described in this manual at any time.
The capabilities, system requirements and/or compatibility with third-party products described herein are subject to change
without notice.

Contents
SURFboard® SBG6900-AC Wireless Cable Modem & Router •User Guide
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Contents
Safety and Regulatory Information .............................................................................................................. vi
Getting Started..............................................................................................................................................1
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................................1
In The Box............................................................................................................................................................................1
Additional Items Needed (Not Included) ......................................................................................................................2
System Requirements.......................................................................................................................................................2
Contact Information ..........................................................................................................................................................2
Product Overview.......................................................................................................................................... 3
Front Panel ..........................................................................................................................................................................3
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)....................................................................................................................................5
Rear Panel............................................................................................................................................................................5
Gateway Label ....................................................................................................................................................................7
Installing the Gateway................................................................................................................................... 8
Pre-Installation Considerations ......................................................................................................................................8
Connect the Gateway to Your Computer.....................................................................................................................8
Establish and Verify Network Connectivity...................................................................................................................9
Setting Up a Wireless Network Connection................................................................................................10
Launch the SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard ............................................................................................................10
Set Up a Wireless Network Using Your Computer...................................................................................................16
Quick Connect Using the Windows Taskbar ......................................................................................................16
Connect Using the Windows Control Panel .......................................................................................................19
Use the SBG6900-AC WPS Pairing Button .................................................................................................................21
Test Your Wireless Network Connection....................................................................................................................22
Using the Gateway Web Manager ..............................................................................................................23
Start the Gateway Web Manager .................................................................................................................................23
Gateway Web Manager Menu Options ...............................................................................................................25
Get Help.............................................................................................................................................................................27
Overview Help ...........................................................................................................................................................27
Help Links...................................................................................................................................................................28
Field Level Help.........................................................................................................................................................29
Exit the SBG6900-AC Web Manager ...........................................................................................................................29
Configuring Your Wireless Network............................................................................................................30
Set Up Your Primary Wireless Network ......................................................................................................................30

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Set Up WPS on Your Wireless Network...............................................................................................................32
Set Up a Guest Wireless Network................................................................................................................................33
Change Your Wireless Network Name (SSID)............................................................................................................36
Change the Wireless Channel.......................................................................................................................................37
Protecting & Monitoring Your Wireless Network........................................................................................39
Prevent Unauthorized Access.......................................................................................................................................39
Change the Default User Name and Password........................................................................................................40
Set Up Firewall Protection .............................................................................................................................................42
Set Up Parental Control .................................................................................................................................................43
Set Up IP Filtering.............................................................................................................................................................45
Set Up MAC Filtering .......................................................................................................................................................46
Set Up Port Filtering........................................................................................................................................................47
Set Up Port Triggers ........................................................................................................................................................48
Set Up Port Forwarding..................................................................................................................................................49
Set Up the DMZ Host......................................................................................................................................................52
Set Up Firewall Event Log Notifications ......................................................................................................................53
Store Remote Firewall Logs...........................................................................................................................................53
Managing Your Gateway and Connected Networks ...................................................................................55
View the Gateway Status Using the Device Status Button.....................................................................................55
View the Gateway Product Information......................................................................................................................56
View the Gateway Network Connection Status ........................................................................................................56
View the Gateway System Event Logs.........................................................................................................................57
Back Up Your Gateway Configuration Settings.........................................................................................................58
Restore Your Gateway Configuration Settings..........................................................................................................59
Reset Your Gateway Configuration Settings..............................................................................................................60
Reset Gateway Using the Reset Button ..............................................................................................................60
Reset Gateway Using the Web Manager ............................................................................................................61
Set Up Your USB Storage Device .................................................................................................................................62
Troubleshooting Tips ..................................................................................................................................63
Solutions ............................................................................................................................................................................63
Front Panel LED Icons and Error Conditions.............................................................................................................64
Warranty Information .................................................................................................................................66

Contents
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Tables
Table 1: SBG6900-AC Package Contents......................................................................................................................1
Table 2: SBG6900-AC Front Panel LEDs & Port ..........................................................................................................3
Table 3: SBG6900-AC Rear Panel Ports & Connectors .............................................................................................6
Table 4: SBG6900-AC Web Manager Main Menu Options.....................................................................................26
Table 5: Troubleshooting Solutions.............................................................................................................................63
Table 6: SBG6900-AC Front Panel LED Icons and Error Conditions ....................................................................64
Figures
Figure 1 – SBG6900-AC Front View................................................................................................................................3
Figure 2 – SBG6900-AC Rear View.................................................................................................................................5
Figure 3 – SBG6900-AC Gateway Label ........................................................................................................................7
Figure 4 - SBG6900-AC Connection Diagram..............................................................................................................8
Figure 5 – Gateway Login Screen .................................................................................................................................11
Figure 6 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard Opening Screen................................................................................11
Figure 7 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard Welcome Screen ..............................................................................12
Figure 8 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 2 of 7 Screen ...........................................................................12
Figure 9 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 3 of 7 Screen ...........................................................................13
Figure 10 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 4 of 7 Screen.........................................................................14
Figure 11 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 5 of 7 Screen.........................................................................14
Figure 12 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 6 of 7 Screen.........................................................................15
Figure 13 – SBG6900-AC Quick Start Wizard-Step 7 of 7 Screen.........................................................................15
Figure 14 – Windows Taskbar Icons ............................................................................................................................16
Figure 15 – Sample Available Wireless Networks Window.....................................................................................17
Figure 16 – Select Wireless Network Window...........................................................................................................17
Figure 17 – Network Connection Window .................................................................................................................18
Figure 18 – Network Connection-Create Network Password Window................................................................19
Figure 19 – Control Panel-Network and Sharing Center Window ........................................................................19
Figure 20 – Manually Connect to a Wireless Network Window ............................................................................20
Figure 21 – Manually Connect to a Wireless Network Window ............................................................................20
Figure 22 – SBG6900-AC WPS Pairing Button...........................................................................................................22
Figure 23 – Gateway Login Screen...............................................................................................................................23
Figure 24 – SBG6900-AC Web Manager Main Screen.............................................................................................24

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Figure 25 – Login Alerts Screen....................................................................................................................................25
Figure 26 – SBG6900-AC Web Manager Main Menu Buttons...............................................................................25
Figure 27 – SBG6900-AC Web Manager Main Menu Links ....................................................................................26
Figure 28 – Help Overview Screen...............................................................................................................................27
Figure 29 – Help Links Screen.......................................................................................................................................28
Figure 30 – Field Level Help Screens...........................................................................................................................29
Figure 31 – SBG6900-AC Web Manager Logout Button.........................................................................................29
Figure 32 – 2.4 GHz Primary Wireless Network Screen ..........................................................................................30
Figure 33 – 5 GHz Primary Wireless Network Screen .............................................................................................31
Figure 34 – WPS Setup Screen .....................................................................................................................................32
Figure 35 – 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Wireless Guest Network Screens...........................................................................34
Figure 36 – Change Your Network Name (SSID) and Password Screens............................................................37
Figure 37 – 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz Wireless 802.11 Radio Screens ..............................................................................38
Figure 38 – SBG6900-AC Web Manager Main Screen.............................................................................................40
Figure 39 – Status Security-Change User Name Screen.........................................................................................41
Figure 40 – Change User Password Screen...............................................................................................................41
Figure 41 – Firewall Protection Level Screen.............................................................................................................42
Figure 42 – Parental Control-Change Time Zone Screen.......................................................................................44
Figure 43 – Firewall Parental Control Screen ............................................................................................................44
Figure 44 – Set Up IP Filters Screen ............................................................................................................................45
Figure 45 – Set Up MAC Filters Screen .......................................................................................................................46
Figure 46 – Advanced Port Filtering Screen...............................................................................................................47
Figure 47 – Create Port Triggers Screen ....................................................................................................................48
Figure 48 – Advanced Port Triggers Screen...............................................................................................................48
Figure 49 – Create Forwarded Ports Screen .............................................................................................................49
Figure 50 – Create Forwarded Ports Screen or Advanced Port Forwarding Screen .....................................50
Figure 51 – Commonly Used Forwarded Ports List .................................................................................................51
Figure 52 – Forwarded Ports Screen...........................................................................................................................51
Figure 53 –DMZ Host Settings Screen ........................................................................................................................52
Figure 54 – Set Up Firewall Local Log Screen............................................................................................................53
Figure 55 – Firewall Remote Log Screen ....................................................................................................................54
Figure 56 – Device Status Button.................................................................................................................................55
Figure 57 – Device Status Screen.................................................................................................................................55
Figure 58 – Status – Product Information Screen ....................................................................................................56
Figure 59 – Status - Connection Screen .....................................................................................................................57
Figure 60 – Status – Event Log Screen........................................................................................................................58

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Figure 61 – SBG6900-AC Backup and Restore Screen ...........................................................................................59
Figure 62 – SBG6900-AC Reset Button.......................................................................................................................60
Figure 63 – Restore Factory Defaults Screen ............................................................................................................61
Figure 64 – SBG6900-AC USB Connect Screen ........................................................................................................62

Safety and Regulatory Information
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Safety and Regulatory
Information
Important Safety Instructions
•Read This Before You Begin — When using your equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed to
reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following:
•Read all of the instructions listed here and/or in the user manual before you operate this device. Give particular
attention to all safety precautions. Retain the instructions for future reference.
•This device must be installed and used in strict accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, as described in the
user documentation that is included with the device.
•Comply with all warning and caution statements in the instructions. Observe all warning and caution symbols that
are affixed to this device.
•To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this device to rain or moisture. The device must not be exposed to
dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the device.
•This device was qualified under test conditions that included the use of the supplied cables between system
components. To ensure regulatory and safety compliance, use only the provided power and interface cables and
install them properly.
•Different types of cord sets may be used for connections to the main POWER supply circuit. Use only a main line
cord that complies with all applicable device safety requirements of the country of use.
•Installation of this device must be in accordance with national wiring codes and conform to local regulations.
•Operate this device only from the type of power source indicated on the device’s marking label. If you are not sure
of the type of power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company.
•Do not overload outlets or extension cords, as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Overloaded AC
outlets, extension cords, frayed power cords, damaged or cracked wire insulation, and broken plugs are
dangerous. They may result in a shock or fire hazard.
•Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against
them. Pay particular attention to cords where they are attached to plugs and convenience receptacles, and
examine the point where they exit from the device.
•Place this device in a location that is close enough to an electrical outlet to accommodate the length of the power
cord.
•Place the device to allow for easy access when disconnecting the power cord of the device from the AC wall outlet.
•Do not connect the plug into an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the plug can be fully inserted
with no part of the blades exposed.
•Place this device on a stable surface.
•Avoid damaging the cable modem with static by touching the coaxial cable when it is attached to the earth-
grounded coaxial cable-TV wall outlet.
i

Safety and Regulatory Information
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•Always first touch the coaxial cable connector on the cable modem when disconnecting or reconnecting the
Ethernet cable from the cable modem or user’s PC.
•It is recommended that the customer install an AC surge protector in the AC outlet to which this device is
connected. This is to avoid damaging the device by local lightning strikes and other electrical surges.
•Postpone installation until there is no risk of thunderstorm or lightning activity in the area.
•Do not use this product near water: for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet
basement, or near a swimming pool.
•Do not cover the device or block the airflow to the device with any other objects. Keep the device away from
excessive heat and humidity and keep the device free from vibration and dust.
•Wipe the device with a clean, dry cloth. Never use cleaning fluid or similar chemicals. Do not spray cleaners directly
on the device or use forced air to remove dust.
•For added protection, unplug the device from the wall outlet and disconnect the cables to avoid damage to this
device due to lightning and power surges.
•Upon completion of any service or repairs to this device, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to
determine that the device is in safe operating condition.
•Do not open the device. Do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the installation and
troubleshooting instructions. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
•This device should not be used in an environment that exceeds 104º F (40º C).
SAVE THE ABOVE INSTRUCTIONS
Note to CATV System Installer — This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Article
820.93 and 820.100 of the National Electric Code, which provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular,
specifies that the Coaxial cable shield shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point
of cable entry as practical.
FCC STATEMENTS
FCC Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the device off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•Increase the separation between the device and receiver.
•Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Safety and Regulatory Information
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This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
FCC CAUTION: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by ARRIS for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. To comply
with the FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, the separation distance between the antenna and any person’s
body (including hands, wrists, feet and ankles) must be at least 28 cm (11 inches) .
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter except
those already approved in this filing.
The availability of some specific channels and/or operational frequency bands are country dependent and are
firmware programmed at the factory to match the intended destinations. The firmware setting is not accessible by
the end user.
INDUSTRY CANADA (IC) STATEMENT
This device complies with RSS-210 of the Industry Canada Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
•This device may not cause interference, and
•This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)
In Canada, RLAN devices are restricted from using the 5600-5650 MHz frequency band.
CAUTION: To reduce the potential for harmful interference to co-channel mobile satellite systems, use of the 5150-
5250 MHz frequency band is restricted to indoor use only.
High power radars are allocated as primary users (meaning they have priority) of 5250-5350 MHz and 5650-5850
MHz frequency bands. These radars could cause interference and/or damage to License Exempt–Local Area
Network (LE-LAN) devices.
IC RADIATION EXPOSURE STATEMENT
IMPORTANT NOTE: This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the
radiator and your body.
AVIS D'INDUSTRIE CANADA (IC)
Cet appareil est conforme à la réglementation RSS-210 d'Industrie Canada. Son utilisation est assujettie aux deux
conditions suivantes :
•Cet appareil ne doit pas causer d'interférences et
•Cet appareil doit accepter toute interférence reçue, y compris les interférences causant un fonctionnement non
désiré.
CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

Safety and Regulatory Information
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Au Canada, les appareils de réseau local sans fil ne sont pas autorisés à utiliser les bandes de fréquence 5600-5650
MHz.
AVERTISSEMENT: afin de réduire les risques de brouillage préjudiciable aux systèmes de satellites mobiles utilisant les
mêmes canaux, les dispositifs fonctionnant dans la bande 5150-5250 MHz sont réservés uniquement pour une
utilisation à l'intérieur.
Les radars à haute puissance sont définis en tant qu'utilisateurs principaux (c.-à-d. prioritaires) des bandes de
fréquences 5250-5350 MHz et 5650-5850 MHz. Ces radars peuvent causer de l'interférence ou des dommages
susceptibles de nuire aux appareils exempts de licence–réseau local (LAN-EL).
DÉCLARATION DE IC SUR L'EXPOSITION AUX RAYONNEMENTS
NOTE IMPORTANTE: cet équipement est conforme aux limites d'exposition aux rayonnements établies par IC pour
un environnement non contrôlé. Cet équipement doit être installé et utilisé de manière à maintenir une distance d'au
moins 20 cm entre la source de rayonnement et votre corps.
WIRELESS LAN INFORMATION
This device is a wireless network product that uses Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Orthogonal
Frequency-Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) radio technologies. The device is designed to be interoperable with any
other wireless DSSS and OFDMA products that comply with:
•The IEEE 802.11 Standard on Wireless LANs (Revision B, Revision G, and Revision N), as defined and approved by
the Institute of Electrical Electronics Engineers
•The Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) certification as defined by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA).
Restrictions on the Use of Wireless Devices
In some situations or environments, the use of wireless devices may be restricted by the proprietor of the building or
responsible representatives of the organization. For example, using wireless equipment in any environment where
the risk of interference to other devices or services is perceived or identified as harmful.
If you are uncertain of the applicable policy for the use of wireless equipment in a specific organization or
environment, you are encouraged to ask for authorization to use the device prior to turning on the equipment.
The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or television interference caused by unauthorized modification of
the devices included with this product, or the substitution or attachment of connecting cables and equipment other
than specified by the manufacturer. Correction of the interference caused by such unauthorized modification,
substitution, or attachment is the responsibility of the user.
The manufacturer and its authorized resellers or distributors are not liable for any damage or violation of government
regulations that may arise from failing to comply with these guidelines.
Note: The use of the 5150-5250 MHz frequency band is restricted to Indoor Use Only.

Safety and Regulatory Information
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SECURITY WARNING: This device allows you to create a wireless network. Wireless network connections may be
accessible by unauthorized users. For more information on how to protect your network, see Change the Default User
Name and Password for instructions or visit the ARRIS Support website at www.arris.com/consumer.
CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT BY RECYCLING
When you see this symbol on an ARRIS product, do not dispose of the product with
residential or commercial waste.
Recycling your ARRIS Equipment
Please do not dispose of this product with your residential or commercial waste. Some
countries or regions, such as the European Union, have set up systems to collect and
recycle electrical and electronic waste items. Contact your local authorities for information
about practices established for your region.

Getting Started
SURFboard® SBG6900-AC Wireless Cable Modem & Router •User Guide
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Getting Started
Introduction
The ARRIS SURFboard®SBG6900-AC Wireless Cable Modem & Router is an all-in-one high
performance wireless DOCSIS®3.0 cable modem and four-port router. It provides high-speed
Internet access for your computer and other wireless network devices on your home or small
business network. The SBG6900-AC also includes a Wi-Fi Pairing option for quick and easy
wireless connections for your WPS-enabled (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) wireless devices.
This guide provides a product overview and instructions for installing and configuring the
SBG6900-AC. It also includes procedures for setting up secure wireless network connections
and managing your SBG6900-AC and network configurations.
In The Box
Before installing the SBG6900-AC, check that the following items are included in the box. If any
items are missing, please contact your service provider for assistance.
Table 1: SBG6900-AC Package Contents
Item
Description
SBG6900-AC
Wireless Cable
Modem & Router
High-speed DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, wireless
access point, and four-port router
Power Cord Provides power to the SBG6900-AC through an
electrical outlet connection
Ethernet Cable Standard Category 5 (or higher) cable for
connecting your network devices to the network
Software License
& Regulatory Card
Contains the software license, warranty, and
safety information for the SBG6900-AC
1

Getting Started
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Item
Description
SBG6900-AC Quick
Start Guide
Provides basic information for installing the
gateway to get it up and running on your home
network
Additional Items Needed (Not Included)
The following items are not included in the product box and must be purchased separately.
•Coaxial (coax) cable, if one is not already connected to a cable wall outlet
•RF splitter (for additional coaxial cable connections, such as a set-top box or Smart TV)
System Requirements
•High-speed Internet access account
•Web browser access –Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari
•Compatible operating systems:
οWindows®10
οWindows 8
οWindows 7, Service Pack 1 (SP1)
οWindows Vista™, SP2 or later
οWindows XP, SP 3
Note : Microsoft no longer supports Windows XP. However, the SBG6900-AC should still function
without any problems.
•Mac® 10.4 or higher
•UNIX®
•Linux®
Contact Information
For technical support and additional ARRIS product information:
•Visit the ARRIS Support website: www.arris.com/consumer
•Call ARRIS Technical Support: 1-877-466-8646

Product Overview
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Product Overview
Front Panel
Figure 1 – SBG6900-AC Front View
Table 2: SBG6900-AC Front Panel LEDs & Port
LED Icon
Flashing
On
Not applicable — no LED on button.
Note: The Wireless LED will flash
Amber to indicate the WPS pairing
process is in progress.
Not applicable — no LED on button.
See
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)
for
more information.
Not applicable — icon does not flash.Green: Power is properly connected.
Scanning for an downstream (receive)
channel connection.
Green: Non-bonded downstream
channel is connected.
Blue*: High-speed Internet connection
with bonded downstream channels.
2
WPS button
Power
Receive
Send
Online
Wireless 2.4 GHz
Wireless 5 GHz
USB Rear
USB Front
USB Port

Product Overview
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LED Icon
Flashing
On
Scanning for an upstream (send)
channel connection
Green: Non-bonded upstream channel
is connected.
Blue*: High-speed Internet connection
with bonded upstream channels.
Scanning for an Internet connection. Green: Startup process is completed
and the SBG6900-AC is connected to
your home network
Green: Wi-Fi enabled with encrypted
wireless data activity.
Amber: WPS Pairing process is
underway between the SBG6900-AC
and a WPS-enabled wireless device.
Green: Any of the following applies:
•2.4 GHz wireless connection is made
between the SBG6900-AC and
another
Wi-Fi enabled wireless device on your
home network; such as a Wi-Fi
telephone, printer, tablet, laptop, etc.
•The WPS Pairing process between the
SBG6900-AC and WPS-enabled
wireless device was successful.
•The WPS Pairing process either failed
or did not complete after two
minutes.
Amber: Flashes during the wireless
pairing process and lights up SOLID
green after five seconds or less.
Green: Wi-Fi enabled with encrypted
wireless data activity.
Amber: Wi-Fi enabled with
unencrypted wireless data activity.
Green: Any of the following applies:
•5 GHz wireless connection is made
between the SBG6900-AC and
another
Wi-Fi enabled device on your home
network; such as a Wi-Fi telephone,
printer, tablet, laptop, etc.
•The WPS Pairing process between the
SBG6900-AC and WPS-enabled
wireless device was successful.
•The WPS Pairing process either failed
or did not complete after two
minutes.
Amber: Flashes during the wireless
pairing process and lights up SOLID
green after five seconds or less.

Product Overview
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LED Icon
Flashing
On
Front & Rear
Green: Data activity in progress. Green: USB connection is made
between the SBG6900-AC and a
computer or other USB device.
USB Port USB 2.0 port connection to your computer or other USB device
Note : * indicates DOCSIS 3.0 operation (high-speed Internet access) which may not be available in all
locations. Check with your service provider for availability in your area.
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS)
Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) is a wireless network setup option that provides a quick solution for
setting up a secure wireless network connection for any WPS-enabled wireless device, such as a
computer, tablet, gaming device, or network printer. WPS automatically configures your wireless
network connections and sets up wireless security. See Use the SBG6900-AC WPS Pairing
Button for more information.
Rear Panel
Figure 2 – SBG6900-AC Rear View
Reset
USB
Ethernet
Coaxial Cable
Power

Product Overview
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Table 3: SBG6900-AC Rear Panel Ports & Connectors
Port
Description
Reset Button
Recessed button used to reboot the gateway or reset the gateway
factory settings.
•To reboot (or restart) the gateway, press the indented Reset
button once using the end of a paper clip or other small object
with a narrow tip, and then release.
•To reset the gateway configuration back to the factory default
settings, press and hold the recessed Reset button for 15
seconds using the end of a paper clip or other small object with a
narrow tip, and then release. See
Reset Your Gateway Settings
for
more information on an alternative method to reset the gateway
settings using the SBG6900-AC Web Manager.
WARNING! Resetting the SBG6900-AC to factory defaults will also
delete any custom gateway configurations, including your user
passwords and other security settings. You should back up the
gateway configuration files before resetting the gateway. See
Back
Up Your Gateway Configuration
for more information.
USB 2.0 port connection to your computer or other USB device
Four one-gigabit Ethernet ports for RJ-45 cable connections
•Green LED is ON - Indicates a data transfer rate of one gigabit
per second
•Amber LED is ON - Indicates a data transfer rate of less than
one gigabit per second
Coaxial cable connector
100 - 240VAC Power connector
WARNING! To avoid any damage to your SBG6900-AC, only use
the power cord provided in the box.

Product Overview
SURFboard® SBG6900-AC Wireless Cable Modem & Router •User Guide
7
365-095-27293 x.1 Copyright 2015 ARRIS Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Gateway Label
Figure 3 – SBG6900-AC Gateway Label
The gateway label is located on the bottom of the SURFboard SBG6900-AC. It contains specific
gateway ID information that you may need when contacting your service provider or ARRIS
Technical Support.
To receive Internet service, you will have to contact your service provider for assistance. You may
need to provide the following information listed on the gateway label:
•Gateway model name (SBG6900-AC)
•Gateway MAC address (HFC MAC ID)
•Gateway serial number (S/N)

Installing the Gateway
SURFboard® SBG6900-AC Wireless Cable Modem & Router •User Guide
8
365-095-27293 x.1 Copyright 2015 ARRIS Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Installing the Gateway
This product is for indoor use only. Do not route the Ethernet cable(s)
outside of the building. Exposure of the cables to lightning could create a
safety hazard and damage the product.
Pre-Installation Considerations
Before installing the SBG6900-AC:
•Check with your service provider to ensure broadband cable service is available in your area.
To set up a wireless network, you will need a high-speed Internet connection provided by an
Internet service provider.
Note : When contacting your service provider, you may have to provide the gateway information
listed on the gateway label located on the bottom of your SBG6900-AC (see
Gateway Label ).
•Choose a location in your home where your computer and gateway are preferably near
existing cable and electrical wall outlets.
Connect the Gateway to Your Computer
Note: The following installation procedure covers the wired Ethernet connection process so that you
can confirm that the SBG6900-AC was properly installed and can connect to the Internet.
Figure 4 - SBG6900-AC Connection Diagram
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