When you receive a cable TV set-top box from Comcast, it will need to be activated before you can receive channels on it. You can activate your cable box online or by calling Comcast. Newer X1 cable boxes can be activated directly from your TV. Comcast will not activate cable boxes purchased used. 1 Connect the "Cable In/RF In" connection to the cable wall outlet. Use a coaxial cable to make this connection, ensure that there is a little slack in the cable so that there is no tension on the connectors. xfinity activate