Troubleshooting Modem and Router

10 years ago

I'm sure there is an obvious answer but right now I'm so frustrated just trying to keep an internet connection that I can't think straight.

My Motorola SurfBoard SB5120 cable modem and/or Cisco Linksys E1000 router keeps dropping my internet connection. I've already contacted my internet provider (Cox) and they tell me the problem is at my end.

What is the best way to figure out if it's a bad modem or bad router?

Jodi-

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (3)

owbist
10 years ago
Have you disconnected either (both is better) from the power supply for at least 30 seconds? This allows them to rebuild themselves.

Remove the router from the equation to see if you still stay connected with just the modem.
Elmer J Fudd
10 years ago
Jodi, it's you and me against the world ;-)

How old are each of these two things?

With a 50% chance of being right (and also of being wrong), I'm going to point the finger at the modem. Because the router is a newer model, though maybe not a younger individual device.

Find a store/seller that accepts open box returns without a restocking fee. Buy a new modem (you need to call the cable company before you connect it to give them the device's ID numbers), connect it, see if that fixes the problem. If not, do the same thing with a new router. If not, it's back to the cable company to check the signal.

Edit

Owbist is right, try his approach first

This post was edited by snidely on Wed, Sep 18, 13 at 16:39
Related Discussions
Question about cable modems
Q
Comments (2)
Before you spend any money's - If you have a usb cord that you can borrow that will allow you to move that usb network adapter around a little, you might find it works fine when moved even just a foot or two away from where its at. Also you might install something like inSSIDer and check/watch your signal strength to make sure youre not on a same channel a neighbor is using which will be degrading yours. Here is a link that might be useful: http://www.metageek.net/products/inssider/
...See More
Can I have/use two cable modems ?
Q
Comments (1)
I don't believe there is a way to hook up two modems to the wiring and have them function independently. You might be able to use one in a "repeater" mode, though, and that could possibly be done wirelessly. There are also specific repeater devices you can get to extend the signal, and that might be easier to do. I suggest you contact the manufacturer of your modem to ask what is possible with that specific model, and whether they sell a repeater device that would be easier to set up than a second router. By the way, have you confirmed that the streaming does not work well, or is that just a statement in the manual? By the way, I have a similar situation. I have a DSL modem with a 3MB signal that is connected to a router in an upstairs closet; my tv system is in the living room downstairs. I have an older DVD player without a streaming capability, but wanted to be able to stream Netflix movies. I bought the Roku wireless device that Netflix sells, plugged it in to the back of my tv as an additional input, and set up the connection in about 2 minutes. I am able to get maximum quality every time I use it unless someone else is using a computer in another part of the house, in which case picture quality drops down a little.
...See More
how to check if my wireless router/modem is 'secure'?
Q
Comments (4)
I now have windows 7- it seems a bit different, as there is no 'network connections' on the control panel list. I tried 'wireless assistant', and 'internet options'. On 'internet options' there is 'connections', which I cliccked on. Then 'dial-up' and 'Virtual Private Network Settings' popped up- but didn't show any network settings, secured or not. I used to be able to click the little computer icons on the taskbar, but they aren't there anymore. I have tried to 'customize' my taskbar, but can't find a way to get the computer icon again. Any suggestions with win 7?
...See More
modem switch, ethernets, and extension cables
Q
Comments (8)
A network switch really isn't much different than one of these: Yes, it's grossly oversimplified but the concept pretty much holds true. You're just splitting the signal just likes one of these adapters splits the power. It probably don't much matter which switch you buy and frankly you might be do better with a router. A router is basically an advanced switch but you can use it as a switch too. They're far more common and therefore generally cheaper. You might look a eBay or Craigslist for used ones. As for cables, buy the cheapest you can find. Local brick and mortar stores are generally the most expensive places to buy cables. Online at Monoprice or Amazon is far more economical. As for more places to plug things in. One of these are any of the numerous variations are available at your local home center:
...See More
Jodi_SoCal
Original Author
10 years ago
LOL Snidely.

I should have mentioned I have done the obligatory 'unplug/replug' steps many times and every time the connection goes south.

Everything is fine for awhile and then, boom, no connection. Often it happens when I'm sending an email (Gmail) or uploading new photos to Facebook.

The Motorola cable modem is by far the older of the two devices and seems to take a long time for all the lights to line up and glow when restarting it. However, the router is a refurbished from Cisco though out of warranty.

I will try to work from the modem via a CAT5E cable to see if problems still occur. Really didn't want to do this because it's not in the most convenient place and the dropped connections are so intermittent.

Jodi-

Related Stories

DECORATING GUIDES 5 Ways to Organize Your Home Electronics

By Vanessa Brunner

Always losing your phone charger? Tired of digging for that missing DVD? Try these ideas for managing your favorite home gadgets

Full Story

HOME OFFICES 9 Hacks for a Clutter-Free Home Office

By Natasha Saroca

Use these clever ideas to transform a chaotic study into one that’s more conducive to working

Full Story

HOME OFFICES Dream Spaces: Home Offices You’d Be Delighted to Work In

By Kate McKee

Warm lighting, comfortable furnishings and pleasing views can make you want to head into your home office each day

Full Story

MORE ROOMS Where to Put the TV When the Wall Won't Work

By Pangaea Interior Design, Portland, OR

See the 3 Things You'll Need to Float Your TV Away From the Wall

Full Story

DECORATING GUIDES 10 Feminine Workspaces for Hardworking Women

By Charmean Neithart Interiors

Glam, girly or with a powerful palette, these home offices and workspaces give working girls and women the designs they deserve

Full Story

REMODELING GUIDES Key Measurements to Help You Design the Perfect Home Office

By Steven Corley Randel, Architect

Fit all your work surfaces, equipment and storage with comfortable clearances by keeping these dimensions in mind

Full Story

ORGANIZING The Case for Hidden Storage

By Laura Gaskill

Imagine how much more peaceful your home would feel with cleared surfaces. And that’s just one reason to stow your supplies

Full Story

SMALL SPACES Downsizing Help: Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

By Becky Dietrich, Interior Designer

Look under, over and inside to find places for everything you need to keep

Full Story

Troubleshooting Modem and Router

Comments (3)

owbist

Elmer J Fudd

Related Discussions

Jodi_SoCal
Original Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

Troubleshooting Modem and Router

Comments (3)

owbist

Elmer J Fudd

Related Discussions

Jodi_SoCalOriginal Author

COMPANY

BUSINESS SERVICES

GET HELP

CONNECT WITH US

Jodi_SoCal
Original Author