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
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