Encountering intermittent wired connection using a Cable Modem

To resolve dropping Internet connection on a modem, follow the steps below:

i. Checking physical connection
ii. Checking the LEDs
iii. Powercycling the computer and the modem
iv. Resetting the cable modem

NOTE:  In this article, we are using the BEFCMU10 Broadband Etherfast® Cable Modem as an example.  For detailed instructions on how to download the driver from the Linksys Support Site, click here.

Checking physical connection

Step 1:
Connect the coaxial cable from your provider to the CABLE port of the modem.

NOTE:  If the image of the modem above is not similar to the one you are using, refer to your modem’s documentation.

Step 2:
Make sure the power adapter is plugged into an available power outlet.

Step 3:
Connect the Ethernet cable from your computer’s Ethernet port to the modem’s Ethernet port.

NOTE:  If USB is used, make sure that the USB cable is properly connected to the appropriate port on the back of the modem and the other end to the USB port of the computer.  Make sure that the USB drivers are installed.

Step 4:
Power ON the modem.

After connecting the devices together, check the LEDs of the cable modem.  For instructions, follow the steps below.

Checking the LEDs

The Linksys modem’s front panel will indicate the status of the connection.  After connecting the coaxial cable to the CABLE port, the computer to the USB or Ethernet port and powering on the modem, the following should be lit:

• Power
• Ethernet
or USB
• Cable
and Activity

NOTE:  The image may vary depending on the port used (Ethernet or USB) to connect your computer.

Step 1:
Make sure the Power LED is lit.

NOTE:  If the Power LED is not lit, make sure the power adapter is properly connected and the modem is powered ON.

Step 2:
Make sure the Ethernet LED is lit.

NOTE:  If the Ethernet LED is not lit, make sure the computer is powered ON.  You can also try using another cable.

Step 3:
Make sure the Cable and Activity LEDs are lit.

NOTE:  If the Cable LED is not lit make sure that the coaxial cable line is properly connected to the Cable port.

Step 4:
Make sure the green Internet LED is lit.

Step 5:
If you’re using the USB port connection, make sure the USB LED is lit.

NOTE:  If the USB LED is not lit make sure that the cable modem is properly installed.

After checking the LEDs on the modem, powercycle the devices.  For instructions, follow the steps below.

Powercycling the computer and the modem

Step 1:
Shut down the computer and unplug the modem’s power cable and wait for 30 seconds.

Step 2:
Plug in the modem's power cable and wait for its lights to appear solid.

Step 3:
Power ON the computer.  After the powercycle, check the Internet connection.  If the connection is still intermittent, reset the cable modem.  For instructions, follow the steps below.

Resetting the cable modem

The Linksys Cable Modem can be set to factory default by pressing the Reset button.  Pressing and holding the Reset button at the back of the modem for 30 seconds will clear the cable modem connections and set the modem to its factory default settings.  If the connection to the Internet is still intermittent, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for further assistance.

NOTE:  The instructions for resetting your modem may depend on the device that you are using.  Refer to your modem’s documentation for more details.

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