It's not a modem, it's a router that uses MOCA so it can be delivered over coax.. I ran my own CAT6 (Cat5e is fine) to the ONT then just called up and got it switched, it can also be requested in Verizon Direct forum here after the lines are run.
If you have FIOS TV you cant get rid of the actiontec completely regardless of what router you use, but if you run ethernet then the actiontec can be placed BEHIND the new router rather than in front.
Hope my sloppy writing isn't too confusing...
Your existing setup: ----- |>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>TVs / STBs
ONT>>>>>COAX>>>SPLITTER|>>>>ACTIONTEC
-----
With ethernet/CAT5e/6 run to ONT: -----
|>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>TVs / STBs
ONT|>>>>>COAX>>>SPLITTER|>>>>ACTIONTEC
|<----CAT5----RTR------ACTIONTEC
-----
With a bridged connection:-----
|>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>TVs / STBs
ONT|>>>>>COAX>>>SPLITTER|>>>>ACTIONTEC-----RTR-----ACTIONTEC
-----
RTR = your own router, with the actiontec connected to one of its LAN ports.
ONT = Optical Network Terminal, usually mounted on the side of the house.