dslreports logo

Simple rule of thumb:
Any time you change the hardware configuration of your network, shut the cable modem off, let it sit for 2-3 minutes (while you add or remove the other hardware). Then plug everything back in, and restart/power-on the network equipment.

The cable modem will "remember" the MAC ADDRESS of the last piece of hardware it was attached to. If you leave the modem powered on while adding a router, the MAC ADDRESS retained by the modem will be that of the NIC (Network Interface Card) in your computer. The router has a different MAC ADDRESS, and the modem won't "talk to it".

See this thread: »[ Brighthouse] Help with router on Roadrunner please for reference.


Feedback received on this FAQ entry:
  • Thanks!!! Perhaps this last tip about restarting the cable modem should be highlighted, but you saved me some serious time!!! The linksys router part was well written. Yeah, I'm happy.

    2008-02-26 17:50:35



Expand got feedback?

by whistlinduck See Profile edited by dbmaven See Profile
last modified: 2006-05-23 15:07:37