(Solved) Router not getting internet from modem- How to fix

Billions of people across the globe rely on the internet to accomplish different tasks. Having a strong internet connection has become a necessity for most people.

For you to establish a network connection, you need a router, modem, and internet-enabled devices. If the router is not getting internet from the modem, you may not be able to access wifi as usual. Some of the causes include an unplugged modem, a fried router, or a failed power adapter. Using an incorrect firmware version or a loose connection can also cause this problem. You can solve it by doing a few things such as checking the lights on your devices, wiping your router settings, updating the firmware, or inspecting your connection. Here is more!

Find out how a router and modem work

Before we discuss how you can fix this problem, you should understand how a modem and router work. A modem and router are both plastic hardware pieces that you need to supply your home with the internet. The modem is designed to connect to a wire to bring internet data from different parts of the world. Though you can access the internet by simply using a modem and a computer, this is not a smart hardware piece.

It cannot provide you with internet safety and keep you away from security threats such as hacking. A router is a great companion for your computer that gives you secure internet use. The router is designed to take the digital signal from the modem then share it with computers in the house. If the router does not get internet from the modem, then you cannot get online.

What should you do when the router is not getting internet from the modem?

Check for blinking lights on your devices

Your modem and router use blinking lights to communicate different messages. If you notice that none of these devices are showing any lights, it could indicate that they are either powered down or unplugged. Try disconnecting the power cord. You could disconnect both the router and modem. After a few minutes, reconnect the modem while the power switch is on. If the modem starts showing some lights, you can then proceed with plugging the router back in and give it some time to boot up.

If you don’t notice any lights on your router once you have plugged it in, it indicates that the power adapter has failed or the router is fried. Look at the specific lights on the modem and known how to interpret them. If, for instance, the lights on the modem are flashing instead of being solid, it shows that the modem is not finding an internet connection. In this case, you should consider getting a new modem.

On the router, if you notice that the network light is on, but the wifi lights are off, you can easily fix this. Try pressing the wifi button. Alternatively, go to the configuration menu to re-enable wifi. If you don’t know what the lights on your modem mean, the following table should help.

Update your firmware

This software runs your router as well as the modem. If you are using an outdated firmware, then the router may not be able to get internet from the modem as expected. Updating it can, however, solve your internet issues. Vendors usually offer internet users firmware updates that you can easily download.

Upgrading your firmware can enhance the performance of your router and modem. It also increases the speed of your internet and gives you access to extra features. The system section of the router’s management console should contain the firmware update tool. You should go through the provided guidelines for you to install the right firmware version. Avoid downloading firmware from any third-party sites.

Consider wiping the settings of your router

One of the options that can end your internet problems is rebooting the router. If you do this and still notice that the router is not receiving any internet, a particular setting may be causing the problem. In this case, you should consider resetting the router back to the factory default configuration.

Check for a small reset button on the rear part of your router. You should hold it down for some seconds until you notice the lights flashing. After resetting the router, you should go to the web interface and start setting it up again. Once everything is done, check if the router has started receiving the internet from the modem as usual.

Inspect your connection

If you have tried troubleshooting the modem and router with no success, you should focus on the source. Look at the connection that is coming to your house to see if the main cable has a problem. Sometimes, a lot of debris can knock the cable loose. Ensure that the connection is tight and check that the connectors are crimped properly. If you notice that the cable splitter is dirty or rusty, consider replacing it. You should also avoid using cheap cable splitters since they can weaken the signal.

Conclusion

The router and modem work hand in hand to ensure that you enjoy a great internet connection. When the router is not getting internet from the modem, the problem could be either of these devices. If you have not been successful at solving the problem, you should call your internet service provider.

FAQs

How can I restart my modem?

You only need to take out the power plug from the modem and router. Give it a few minutes before plugging it back.

What causes a router to stop working suddenly?

This is mostly caused but too much traffic on the network.