How to power cycle a cable modem or EMTA
Often the first step in resolving network connection issues begins by troubleshooting your modem. In this quick guide, we’ll share step-by-step instructions for power cycling your cable modem or EMTA.
Follow these quick troubleshooting steps to power cycle your modem.
Power cycling your cable modem
Follow these steps to power cycle your modem.
- Disconnect power from the router/eero and Shut off the computer
- Unplug the modem’s power cord from the wall outlet, not from the back of the modem when possible
- Wait about 60 seconds
- Plug the power cable back into the wall outlet
- The power light should now light up on the cable modem—make sure there is power to the wall outlet and the power cable is plugged in all the way
- Turn on the computer and/or plug the power back into the router
Third party VoIP provider
If you are using a 3rd party VoIP provider such as Vonage or Skype, there is no reason to perform these steps—if your phone service is working, the internet connection is working.
Power cycling the cable modem in these instances will disconnect your call.
Power cycling your digital phone cable modem (EMTA)
If you are speaking on your digital phone number connected to this device, there is no reason to perform these steps; Your internet connection is already working.
Power cycling the cable modem in these instances will disconnect your call.
- Disconnect the cord that supplies power to the EMTA
- Take off battery cover and remove the back-up battery
- Wait 60 seconds
- Plug power cord back in
- Re-install back up battery, and reinstall cover
- Wait 30 seconds, then check for dial tone
Related support articles
Quick links
Looking for something else?
Check out Astound Support Center for all help and support related information.
*Internet speeds vary, not guaranteed. Certain equipment may be required. See astound.com for details. Modem req’d. No contracts. Astound Internet is powered by fiber and connected to the premises via coaxial connection or fiber, where available. Delivery methods may vary by area. Subject to availability. Ltd-time offer; subj. to change without notice. Internet speeds under 1 Gig, pricing valid for 12 mos. Gig+ Internet speeds, pricing valid for 36 mos. Add’l fees apply for taxes, surcharges, & data overages, & are subj. to change. For details visit astound.com/fees. Enhanced WiFi or Whole Home WiFi included with Gig+; $5/mo for lower speeds or add’l devices. Regular rates apply after promo ends. Monthly price shown includes discount for enrolling in autopay & e-bill. $10 off/mo w/ bank acct autopay or $5 off/mo w/ credit/debit card autopay. Valid email & enrollment req’d. Must enroll w/in 30 days of order. Discount appears within 3 bill cycles, ends if autopay/e-bill is canceled, svcs change, or acct isn’t in good standing. ^Astound Mobile req’s Astound Internet service for activation. Max 5 lines. Equip., intl./roaming charges, taxes, fees extra & may change. Astound not liable for svc disruptions or outages. Higher rate applies if Internet not maintained. Mobile svc only in Astound areas. Pricing subj. to change. Data may slow during congestion. After 20GB, Unlimited plans slow to 768 Kbps; 1.5GB/3GB plans capped. No rollover; add’l data $10/GB. Coverage varies. Some features may require specific plans. Mobile svc includes BIAS w/ data, voice, texts & SMS. Other restrictions may apply. See astound.com/mobile for details. Offer valid for new res. customers or former customers in good standing w/out Astound svc in past 60 days. Add’l svcs, equip, premiums & tiers extra & subject to add’l charge & reg. increases. $14.99 one-time activation fee (plus install) applies & may change. Taxes & surcharges extra & subj. to change. WA RESIDENTS: unless otherwise specified, price does not include 2% Regulatory Administration Fee. Cust. responsible for any accrued charges. Subj. to credit check. Not all svcs/speeds avail. in all areas. 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee for new residential customers who cancel within 30 days of install. Maximum refund is equal to one month’s monthly recurring service fee of services & equip. ordered & installed. Refund within 60 days after conditions are satisfied. Refund not applicable to usage-based fees. All svcs are governed by Astound Customer Terms & Conditions found at astound.com/policies-disclaimers. © 2025 Radiate HoldCo, LLC d/b/a Astound Broadband. All rights reserved.