(Solved) Modem keeps resetting – How to fix

Does your modem reset itself every couple of minutes? Here are a few ways you can quickly fix this problem.

Electronics are bound to stop running efficiently at one point in time. One of the more common issues that emanate from modems is that they keep resetting themselves after every few minutes. If you are experiencing this issue, you will notice that all its lights will turn green and then the downstream and upstream lights will start flashing simultaneously in a predictable pattern. Afterwards, it will reboot itself and allow you to connect to the internet for a couple of minutes, before it restarts this process again.

Consequently, this can become extremely frustrating, especially if you are trying to send an important email, streaming your favorite show on Netflix, or playing an online game. There are various causes to such an issue, including faulty network drivers, disconnected cable wires, or a faulty modem altogether. Luckily, this issue is easy to solve as you may replace your router, update your drivers, or change your ISP settings, among many others. Let us look at some quick solutions to the ‘modem keeps resetting’ issue.

How to fix A Modem that keeps resetting

Power cycle the modem

When you leave a modem working on overdrive, especially if it is old, it may stop giving you its best performance. Power cycling can fix its resetting and internet connection issues by flushing its memory and allowing it to cool off.

Simply, unplug the power cord from the back of the modem and router to give them the breather they desperately need. Wait for at least 30 seconds before plugging the modem back on. Do not power on within the first few seconds. After a minimum of 60 seconds, plug in your router and wait for another two minutes. Restart both the modem and router and check whether the problem went away.

Update your modem

As a means to keep up with the increasing download speeds, manufacturers offer a software upgrade for their hardware every few years. Check your manufacturer’s website for any software upgrade for your modem. Upon downloading and installing it, restart your modem, router, and device to see if the issue persists.

Reset your modem and router

Once you reboot your router and the problem is still there, it may be time to reset it. Resetting a modem and router involves reinstalling the default settings of such devices before any changes were made. As a result, this could mean reinstating the original passwords, deleting custom DNS servers, port servers, static IP address, and many more.

Your modem’s reset button should be at the back of the device, and it is usually red. Many manufacturers’ recess the button to prevent it from being pressed by accident. As a result, you will need a pen clip or bent paperclip to push it. It is worthy to note that you might want to back up your settings before performing the reset if you have any customized settings.

To reset your modem, press on the reset button for about 15 seconds. You should feel a slight click upon pressing it. The power light on the modem should flicker red/orange. After waiting for about three to five minutes, the power light should turn amber. You will have to go through the modem activation process to configure it as if it is the first time.

When the modem’s internet light turns green, you should easily access the internet without any hassles. The device should stop resetting itself at this point. Keep in mind that previously connected devices may not be able to connect to the internet until you re-enter the security password.

Reset your ISP settings

It is possible for your modem to slowly desynchronize from its Internet Service Provider (ISP) when it is on all day every day. As a result, such desynchronization may lead to the packets you are receiving and sending to become easily corruptible, causing them to be re-sent, which lowers your connection speed and may occasionally cause the modem to reset frequently.

Contact your Internet Service Provider and explain the issue at hand. The problem could be emanating from their end, and they do not know you are affected. Consequently, they should give you detailed instructions on the steps to take to reinstate your modem.

Replace your old modem

A modem is the hardware part responsible for connecting you to the internet. A high performing modem provides high data transfer rates, ideal for streaming your favorite online shows, and play high-end online games with ease, among many others.

Depending on a modem’s build quality, the average lifespan of a modem ranges from two to four years. However, such devices are not guaranteed to last for that whole period. Sometimes, you may have to replace your equipment within a year or after a few days of installing it.

If you try to troubleshoot your modem by trying all the above solutions, and the problem still does not go away, it may be time to replace your modem to enjoy the best internet experience. Similarly, upgrading your equipment helps you to keep up with the latest trends in the field of technology.

Furthermore, you should practice unplugging your modem and router at least once in a month to remain proactive. No harm will occur to your device as it is merely a way to reboot the device and give it time to cool off.

Conclusion

It is excruciating to go through ‘modem keeps resetting’ issues. By following the steps mentioned above, you should fix this problem and continue accessing the internet trouble-free. If not, contact your Internet Service Provider for more insight on this issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my router cause my modem to reset?

No, it is not possible for a router to reset/reboot a modem

Why do I constantly have to restart my modem?

Restarting a modem constantly fixes several issues on your equipment. However, if you have to restart it more than a few times every month, contact your Internet Service Provider for further clarification.