(Solved) Modem not connecting to internet – How to fix

It can be frustrating trying to watch your favorite show on Netflix only to be confounded with poor internet connection from your modem.  However, before you contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) it would be prudent to eliminate any man-made errors from your end.

The first thing you may want to check is whether the Wi-Fi button is enabled on your modem and all the cable connections are in their right place. If all is fine, check the Windows Network Diagnostic if your laptop is having challenges loading web pages. While at it, you may want to scan your internet network for malware and viruses. This tends to affect internet speeds and modem performance.

The range of issues that lead to slow or no internet connection from your modem are expansive. You will need to start with the common ones like cable connection, then move your modem to a better location and if all fails you may be forced to call your service provider as the modem device could be faulty.

How to fix modem connection issues

Enable Wi-Fi

Most of the time you experience lack of modem internet connection, the problem could simply be that you have not turned the Wi-Fi on. This tends to be the case when you are using modem/router combos. Also, check that all the connecting cables are well connected and there no lose wires.

At times, the cause for modem not connecting could be the device you are using rather than the modem itself. If you note that some of your other devices have no issues connecting to your Wi-Fi but one particular one is the problem then you have need to have that device fixed.

Cable modem MAC address

Whenever you find that you are not connecting to the internet through your modem the problem could be that you have not registered your MAC address with your cable provider. The CM/RF MAC address is often located on the your modem labels. The coaxial cable is should be tightly connected and your Ethernet ports plugged in for you to enjoy internet access. Once you are done try to put off your modem for around 10 minutes then power it on. This should help reboot your modem and solve some common connection issues.

Power on but not receiving internet

If you have registered your MAC address and have issued your cable provider with your RF/CM address but are not been able to upload and downstream files then restart your computer and any connected devices. This helps send the right IP address from your modem to your devices.

Online light does not come on

If your power is on and all your download/upload lights are also blinking but you still cannot access the internet the solution could be to remove your splitter. The splitter is a combination of 2 coax cables and a single cable each on opposing sides. It is placed between the wall and the cable modem. If the splitter is the one that is the problem all you will need to do is it.

If the problem is not with the cable modem then the issue could be with your gadgets. In this instance, go to the device wireless security settings and ensure that the settings on your modem are the same as those on your device.

Placing your modem rightly

At times the main reason you are not receiving internet is that your device is far from your modem (if you are broadcasting wirelessly). You can move your devices closer to the modem for a better signal. If you are using routers you can purchase Wi-Fi extenders to broadcast your internet signal to all your rooms. bypass

Also, ensure that nothing is preventing your signal like electromagnetic waves. This will often be found in household devices like microwaves or baby radios. Metallic objects can also hinder the effective transmission of a Wi-Fi signal.

Modem internal components are defective

If you have tried all these and are still not able to get an internet connection then the problem could be that your modem internal components have outlived their purpose. Modems/routers operate like mini-computers with processors and RAM. This do not have an infinite lifespan. They do wear out with time and when they do your modem becomes obsolete. It is time consuming and pointless to attempt to replace modem internal components. The best course of action is to replace your modem with a new one. Repairs may solve a problem temporarily but if it is an internal component issue you will find yourself constantly trying to fix other emerging issues.

Troubleshooting Modem internet connection issues

Conclusion

A modem primarily function is to connect your devices to the internet. When this does not happen try to first work on the obvious like checking your coaxial and Ethernet cables. From there ensure that your MAC address is registered with your cable provider. This should sort most of your connection issues. You will also need to ensure that the wireless default settings are the same on the modem as it is with your devices.

FAQ

What should I do modem is connected but does not work?

One quick way to solve this problem is to restart your modem and connected device. This fixes cache errors and network issues.

Do I Purchase a new modem if am not connecting to the internet?

The problem may not be that serious to necessitate a new one, restart the modem but and if it does connect check with your ISP.