How to Troubleshoot Home Network Cable & Internet Issues

Quick answer (read this first)

• Inspect all physical data cable connections.
• Power cycle your router and modem.
• Examine network device indicator lights.
• Test with a spare cable and different ports.
• Look for visible damage on cables.
• Confirm correct network settings on your devices.

Safety first

• Always unplug network devices (modem, router) from the power source before inspecting ports or connecting/disconnecting cables, especially if you suspect electrical issues.
• Never force a cable into a port; improper insertion can damage both the cable and the device.
• Avoid excessive bending, kinking, or crimping of data cables as this can damage internal wires and create potential fire hazards.
• Do not attempt to repair severely damaged data cables, particularly those with exposed wires or burn marks. Replace them immediately.
• Ensure your hands are completely dry when handling any electronic equipment or power outlets.
• If you detect a burning smell, smoke, or unusual heat from any device or cable, immediately unplug it and call a professional.

Tools you may need

• A spare data cable (Ethernet or patch cable)
• Small flashlight (for inspecting ports)
• Your router/modem manual (optional)
• A network cable tester (advanced)

Step-by-step

Step 1

Step 1: Inspect Physical Connections Thoroughly check all data cables (Ethernet/patch cables) connecting your modem, router, and devices. Ensure each cable is securely plugged into its port at both ends, with no looseness or wiggling. Listen for a click when inserting.

Step 2

Step 2: Power Cycle Network Devices Completely power down your modem and router by unplugging them from the power outlet. Wait at least 30 seconds, then plug the modem back in first. Once its lights are stable (indicating internet connection), plug in your router. Allow both devices to fully boot up before retesting.

Step 3

Step 3: Examine Indicator Lights Observe the LED lights on your modem, router, and the Ethernet port on your device (computer, laptop, smart TV). Refer to your device manuals to understand what each light indicates. Typically, solid or flashing lights mean active connection/data transfer; no light often signals a connection issue.

Step 4

Step 4: Visually Inspect Cables for Damage Carefully run your hand along the entire length of any suspected data cable. Look for any visible cuts, kinks, severe bends, frayed insulation, exposed wires, or pinch points that could disrupt the internal conductors. Replace any cable that shows damage.

Step 5

Step 5: Test with a Different Cable and Port If you have a spare, known-working data cable, swap it with the one you suspect is faulty. Also, try plugging the cable into a different Ethernet port on your router or device, if available. This helps determine if the issue is with the cable or a specific port.

Step 6

Step 6: Verify Device Network Settings On your connected device (e.g., computer, laptop), navigate to its network settings. Ensure it’s configured to obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP). If it’s set to a static IP address, try switching to automatic to rule out configuration conflicts.

Step 7

Step 7: Test with Another Device Connect a different device (e.g., another laptop, a smartphone via Ethernet adapter) to the same data cable or Wi-Fi network. This helps isolate whether the problem lies with the original device or the network infrastructure itself.

Step 8

Step 8: Check for Software/Driver Issues (for PCs) On computers, ensure your network adapter drivers are up to date. Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause connectivity problems. You might also temporarily disable any VPN or firewall software to see if they are blocking the connection.

Common mistakes

• Immediately assuming a cable is faulty without checking other network components like the router or modem.
• Failing to thoroughly check all physical cable connections for looseness or incorrect insertion.
• Skipping the essential step of power cycling (restarting) your modem and router.
• Using damaged, excessively long, or low-quality data cables that can lead to poor performance or intermittent connectivity.
• Disregarding the diagnostic information provided by the LED indicator lights on your network devices.
• Overlooking software issues on your device, such as outdated network drivers or conflicting firewall settings.

When to call a professional

• After diligently following all troubleshooting steps, if your internet or network connection remains unstable or completely absent.
• If you suspect damage to in-wall data cabling, which requires specialized tools and expertise to repair or replace.
• When your modem or router consistently fails to establish or maintain an internet connection, indicated by persistent red or non-lighting status lights.
• For complex network setups, such as integrating smart home devices, setting up advanced security, or extending network coverage significantly.
• If you need new Ethernet ports installed, existing data lines re-routed, or professional network cabling solutions for optimal performance and safety.