Same problem except that the Cox tech's attempts also timed out. Returning the modem is not an option due to the assinine CA law that FORCES you to reset the password before you can log into the modem's status page. So once you sign in to that page, you have permanently "damaged" the modem and it's return is not accepted.
Regarding the Zoom thing - bogus distraction. The modem is listed on Motorola site, is listed in Cox's "compatible" modems.
If you have had an existing modem attached before attempting the new modem installation, you don't have to activate it again. just connect to the cable outlet and power it up (which is how I am able to make this post after 6 hours of trying to get the MB8611 activated).
I have screen shots of the computer event log, the modem event log and the COX activation fail screens (different results on different attempts).
You DO NOT want Cox to send a tech because they will just disconnect / reconnect cables, turn things off and on, tell you it is your hardware that is the issue and leave you with $150+ service charge. (Been there, done that.) The tech also told me when she suggested swapping at the local office and I said I got it at BestBuy that, "oh- all those modems from Amazon and BestBuy don't work. You need to lease one from us (COX) in order for it to work.
TOTAL BS as my old DOCSIS 3.0 Netgear works just fine. Except that it is Cox's excuse as to why they only provide half the speed they bill me for. "You need a new modem". This after they double my Internet fee by eliminating the 150 mbps level and force you to go to 250 mbps or back to basic dial-up speeds AT STILL MORE THAN I PAID FOR 150 mbps.
I think COX activation looks for some unique "got it from Cox" code in the firmware and just won't activate if they don't think they got or are getting money from you for the modem.
"COX" - say it out loud! Perfect description.