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CenturyLink C3000A / C3000Z: own router and bridge mode

Can I use my own router with the CenturyLink C3000A / C3000Z?

Yes

Transparent Bridging in WAN settings (confirm VLAN with CenturyLink)

  • Bridge modeYes, documented by the ISP
  • IP PassthroughNot applicable
  • Own routerYes, documented by the ISP

Checked October 26, 2026Confidence: medium3 sources

CenturyLink's user guide for this modem links to its WAN settings instructions, which include Transparent Bridging as an ISP Protocol choice. Technologies in the tested-speed table: ADSL, ADSL2+, VDSL and fiber. CenturyLink says the Actiontec C3000A is being phased out and the Zyxel C3000Z is still a recommended newer modem.

Model numbers: C3000A, C3000Z · Type: Gateway (modem + router)

How to set it up

  1. Connect a computer to the modem and open its settings page (the older-modem guide uses http://192.168.0.1); sign in with the Admin Username and Password on the modem sticker.
  2. Choose Advanced Setup, then WAN Settings.
  3. Select Transparent Bridging as the ISP Protocol.
  4. Chat with CenturyLink tech support to get the transport mode (VLAN setting) that works in your area, then Apply.

Know before you switch

  • CenturyLink says not to change WAN settings unless a CenturyLink technician or IT professional tells you to.
  • The VLAN/transport setting must come from CenturyLink and is not available in all areas.
  • CenturyLink publishes one WAN guide for newer modems and one for older modems; both show Transparent Bridging, but the model page does not say which applies to this unit.

How sure are we?

Confidence is medium. The model page links to the WAN settings guide; the guides themselves do not name models.

This page reports what the ISP documented on the date above. ISPs change firmware and policy; if your gateway screen differs, trust your ISP's current page.

Quick answers

Can I use my own router with the CenturyLink C3000A / C3000Z?

Yes. Transparent Bridging in WAN settings (confirm VLAN with CenturyLink)

Does the CenturyLink C3000A / C3000Z have bridge mode?

Yes, documented by the ISP.

Does the CenturyLink C3000A / C3000Z support IP Passthrough?

Not applicable.

How sure is this answer?

Confidence: medium. The model page links to the WAN settings guide; the guides themselves do not name models. Checked October 26, 2026 against 3 ISP sources.

Sources and retrieval dates

  1. CenturyLink: C3000 (C3000A / C3000Z) modem user guidecenturylink.com · read October 26, 2026
  2. CenturyLink: WAN settings (Transparent Bridging)centurylink.com · read October 26, 2026
  3. CenturyLink: WAN settings for older modemscenturylink.com · read October 26, 2026

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