Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with modem

The case of the haunted xbox.

cirrostratus — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 09:48:39 -0800

My internet connection is haunted! I lose connectivity the second I turn on my xbox, even when the network cable is unplugged. How can that be? The situation: we have Mediacom service in my apartment that provides a connection for two computers and xbox live on two xboxes via a netgear router. This works fine most of the time until the second I turn on the second xbox and the internet goes out every time. When this happens and the mediacom modem starts blinking just the internet light until we reset it. Eventually the internet seems to come back after reseting the modem and it seems to come back faster if there are less than four things hooked up to the router.

Here's the weird part: the connection breaks even if we have the xbox's network cable unplugged.

How can an xbox that isn't even hooked up to the router effect our connection?

More importantly, how can I prevent this from happening in the future so I can get down to business and kill some zombies in Left 4 Dead?

Why can I use PING but not HTTP on a yet-to-be-activated DSL account?

j0hnpaul — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:15:09 -0800

Why can I PING with my new DSL modem on an inactive account, but nothing else? Hi! My new modem arrived for Verizon DSL service, but my "service ready date" hasn't arrived yet, giving me some time to muse and experiment.

I noticed that when I set up the modem and connected my Mac via an Ethernet cable, my Network Diagnostics show that the computer is connected to the internet and the connection is working properly. I noticed I can also PING google.com, verizon.com, or any other website from the Terminal with zero packet loss.

On the other hand, everything useful about the internet is closed. I can't access anything in a web browser, and attempting to run the software Verizon sent me to "activate my account" or "troubleshoot my connection" fails. I surmise this is related to trying this before the "service ready date".

But the fact that PING works from the command line, and I'm able to send and receive data across the internet, makes me wonder how real the "service ready date" is. If it's possible to communicate with sites via PING, why not through HTTP? What's really going on?

Calling the heart line

littlerobothead — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:02:47 -0800

Acoustic modem + cell phone. Can it be done? More inside... We just left the NICU with our new daughter (YAY!) but they've given us a heart monitor we might have to use that communicates with the hospital via an old school acoustic modem not wholly unlike this one (erm...wot?). We have a house full of iPhones, but no land line. Will we need to get one for this gadget (which I will gleefully do without a moment's hesitation) or is there a way to make it work with our iPhones? Thanks!

Would an embedded internal wireless 3G modem draw significantly less power from a laptop battery than an external USB wireless 3G modem?

gttommy — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 16:05:27 -0800

Would an embedded internal wireless 3G modem draw significantly less power from a laptop battery than an external USB wireless 3G modem? Generally I would assume, an integrated device will draw less power, but these wireless modems just use up a lot of power regardless so the difference may be negligible.

However, some actual facts or links would be useful.

Thanks!

Why-Fi?

Rhaomi — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:17:19 -0800

What's killing my wi-fi connection? The last few days I've been having some odd problems with my wireless network. I'll be browsing on my laptop when all of a sudden things get really slow, as if I lost the connection. But instead of being sent to "This page is not available" or "server not found" pages like when there really is no connection, I just get stuck loading forever. So if I open a tab and go to Google, it will sit and load saying "Waiting for www.google.com" in the status bar for a minute or two, then eventually say "Done" -- even though the only thing that has loaded is a completely blank tab (even the source code of the page is empty) with the raw URL in the title bar.

But throughout all this, there's no indication that I've lost my connection. The wifi icon in the system tray doesn't change, and says I'm connected if I hover over it. When I open up the Command Prompt and enter ipconfig /all, it says all my internet connection stats are normal. The subnet mask, DHCP server, DNS, etc. are all there. The IP address doesn't start with 169. It's all okay.

Weirdest of all, despite the fact that I can see that all the connection info is normal, if I enter my router's IP address into the address bar (which usually takes me to the router's settings page), it just does the same thing. Load... load... load... blank tab. I understand not being able to connect to the internet, but if I can see all my connection and router info in Command Prompt, why can't I connect to the same router with my browser?

The only way to fix it, I've found, is to disconnect from the wireless network and reconnect. It'll then work fine for anywhere from one minute to fifteen, at which point the connection drops again. This is only affecting my laptop, by the way -- iPods and other laptops connect fine.

I've tried restarting my computer, restarting the router, and repairing the connection -- nothing works. It seems that getting closer to the router improves things, but I'm not sure since the problem comes and goes randomly. And besides, the router is in the same place as it's always been, so unless it's suddenly lost broadcasting power I don't see what would cause the problem. And in the "View Wireless Networks" window, it says the network has an Excellent signal when I'm not connected (though that decreases a bar or two once I do).

The only incident I can think of is that a power surge recently burnt out the power supply, and I had to buy a universal one with an adapter to get the router up and running again. But this was a week or two before the trouble started, so that's probably not the source.

Is there anything that would cause a wireless router to lose signal strength like that? Is there something I can do to fix it, or should I just spring for a new one?

Details: I have a Dell laptop running Windows XP SP3. I have a Bellsouth Fast Access DSL internet connection. The router is a 2Wire HomePortal 1700HW. The loading problem happens on Firefox, Chrome, and IE7.

One more detail I remembered: For awhile when the problem first started, ipconfig /all was giving me some weird info. For instance, it said that the "lease" for the connection expired one second after it was obtained. But it's not doing that anymore.

Router & Modem bridging

steampowered — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 20:41:18 -0800

How do I bridge my Linksys WRT54GS router with my (DSL) Motorola 2210-02-1022 Router (Style MSTATEA)? They were initially "bridged" for the sake of something about PPPoE, and I reset both because when that happened, our connection wasn't secure and I couldn't do anything to change it. Finding information on how to, and attempting to access the router or modem independently didn't produce any results. I've tried "power cycles," reset both multiple times, and have tried a variety of settings on the modem (making the modem the default PPP device versus making the plugged in item the default PPP device) and on the router (Automatic DHCP and PPPoE). I could call AT&T again to straighten this out, but I'd rather not walk through this for two hours and risk doing all the work in vain if our network is not secure again.

Ubuntu dialup internet snafu

ackptui — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 12:52:16 -0800

I am having problems getting a dialup internet connection to work under ubuntu 8.04. I seem to be able to configure the connection OK, but then when I check the box next to it, no connection is made. The modem is external on /dev/ttys0. Anyone have experience with this?

Splitting Comcast Internet to 2 routers

fx3000 — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:25:51 -0800

Can I split internet from one cable modem to 2 routers or is there better approach for what I am trying to achieve? I am trying to set up a Linksys WRT54GL wireless router for a friend, but there is a problem because he already has a ZyXel wireless router in place that is provided by his job. My first thought was to tell him hey you are all set, you have a wireless router already. The problem is anything that he believes anything that goes through that router is monitored by his job (he swears they monitor everything through the router, not through his PC), so he doesn't want his family to pickup wifi from it. The ZyXel router is also password secured and he does not have the password (company IT department saved it on to his computer). He has cable internet provided by Comcast which his job also pays for.

What I would like to do is set up a second router (the Linksys WRT54GL) for the family internet. What is the best way to do this? I would like try to do this without them having to pay Comcast for additional service, but from what I've read they might have to at least buy another IP.

Would I put in a switch and then plug the Linkys and ZyXel routers into that? Or could I daisy-chain the routers with the Linksys first and then the ZyXel? Or is there just some other approach altogether?

Out of the frying pan into the fire

mkb — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 10:19:47 -0800

I am in the process of switching from Comcast cable to Verizon DSL. I am trying to figure out the wireless situation in my house. So Verizon is offering a free netbook to new DSL subscribers, and I don't have any particular affinity for Comcast, so I decided to try it out.

With Comcast (which is actually still running), I have the following setup:
- Motorola cable modem
- Linksys WRT54g v 2.2 running Tomato and boosted output power

I have this unit set to forward BitTorrent, SSH, and icecast ports to one machine at home.

Verizon unexpectedly sent me a modem for my new service that also functions as a wireless access point and a router. It's a Westell 7500. It seems to be almost as configurable as my Linksys, and it looks like there is no need to boost the output power in order to get up to my office. The only missing feature appears to be DynDNS.com updating; the new router uses TSIG authentication which is only available on paid accounts, and I can just punt this to one of my computers.

So, is there anything I am missing that would be worth me keeping the Linksys around? Does this router have any hidden gotchas?

Modem slowing down and stopping?

Astro Zombie — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 14:54:02 -0800

Modem question. I currently am connected to the Internet via Qwest using DSL, using two Mac computers (one using the modem's wireless signal, one plugged in with an ethernet cord). Over the past few years, our connection has been slowing down and breaking regularly, which can be fixed by turning the modem off and back on, but now it slows down and stops about every few minutes. The modem is almost five years old and Qwest tells me it's probably breaking down.

My question is bipartite: Firstly, does this sound like it is likely the problem? Secondly, if so, what modem do you recommend we purchase. I would want to get a new one tomorrow, so I am not looking to order one from Qwest and have to wait for it to be delivered.

Thanks!

Plug it in, plug it in...

Christ, what an asshole — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:01:39 -0800

Modem/Router issues: why does our internet always cut out on one computer on the network, resulting in having to constantly plug/unplug the router to get it working again? Router: WRT54G, ISP: Comcast.

We have two desktops (PCs) set up in the network, one direct with an ethernet cable, the other wireless. For whatever reason, the computer connected through the ethernet cable has its internet connection spontaneously cut out, sometimes several times throughout the day, which makes for some unusually frustrating surfing.

It's puzzling because all the modem lights are flickering just like normal, and the computer connected wirelessly works fine. Meanwhile, the first computer has an icon displaying that it's connected, but it remains dead and has no upload/download activity. As a result and through trial/error, the only way to get it working again is by unplugging the power to the router, letting it sit for a minute, then replugging and hoping it comes back, which it ostensibly does in more cases than not.

What could be the issue causing this brand of interference?

Is my TiVO modem fried?

Joe Beese — Fri, 01 May 2009 10:43:58 -0800

Is my TiVO modem fried? With increasing frequency, the many year old beast runs out of guide information. Now it will not connect to any of the local numbers during the "Getting Program Info" sequence.

I would assume it's the well-documented fragility of the modem. However, it does connect during the initial "Getting Setup Info" sequence.

Does that prove anything? Is this a good enough reason to lay out $280 for a hi-def TiVO?

Share – 1.the full or proper portion or part allotted or belonging to or contributed or owed by an individual or group.

mu~ha~ha~ha~har — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:49:09 -0800

One internet connection shared between three computers. One jackass who uses the entire download limit(!!) and gets our speed capped(!!). So, what software or hardware solutions might there be?? Secrecy isn't a concern. That they are too stupid to be trusted is. Is there maybe something that monitors where the data is going? And also a way to hobble their line speed, once they've reached their 'share'. (I'd prefer not to just yank their cable out completely, but whatever.) I have no idea (keywords to google??) so I'm completely open to suggestion on this :) Thanks! *Other info...?
Our ISP only records a grand total. The modem (Dlink DSL-G604T) only keeps a 24hr log. (Of whatever info it is that it does collect??)
The computer in question runs XP and connects to the modem via a standard ethernet cable. It's also the only one that really needs its data being counted, if that makes it any easier?

Help me with my internet annoyance.

zardoz — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 15:37:04 -0800

I sometimes have trouble with downloading via torrent: surfing becomes a slow crawl/not an option. I have a broadband DSL connection and I'll often download torrents via Transmission on my iMac.

The problem is with torrents: with either Transmission, or uTorrent I can go for several days, even longer than a week, but then suddenly surfing pages on a browser will slow to a crawl and then stop. Torrent downloading may or may not stop at that point, but eventually it stops too.

When this happens I unplug my DSL modem, plug it back in, wait a minute or two, and then I'm firing on all cylinders, torrent downloading and surfing are good for another week or so.

So how can I avoid this step? Settings in Transmission? Hack the modem?

How do I get the Windows Fax Program torecognize my fax modem

Werther — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:01:26 -0800

I am trying to use "Windows Fax and Scan" (Vista Ultimate) to send and receive faxes. I have a fax modem that checks out fine. However, "Windows Fax and Scan" hangs when I try to use the Setup Wizard. It cannot locate the fax modem (even though the modem is listed under the Device Manager). I am using McAfee Security and have allowed the program to run.

Why can't we connect wirelessly?

mai — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:29:34 -0800

Why can't we connect wirelessly to the internet? We have comcast cable internet and a netgear router and fourteen computers, 13 of which connect wirelessly and one of which uses a wired ethernet connection.

Our internet connection stopped working (possibly because the modem was fried by a lightning strike near us?). None of the lights on the modem would go on, so Comcast told us to bring it in and get a new one.

After replacing the modem, the situation is this:
1. If I am wired directly to the modem, I can connect to the internet.
I am on a Mac.
2. My roommate tried to connect directly to the modem running Linux and could not get internet.
3. The router is broadcasting wireless signal. We can all connect to it and can see each other. But, when the router is connected to the modem, there is no internet coming through the pipes.
4. I tried connecting to the router and having it search for firmware updates, and it can't see the internet at all.
5. I tried the whole reset rigamarole (of router, of modem, of everything), it did not help.

So, is our router broken? Is there something else going on?
I am not super knowledgeable about computers. I usually solve problems by googling for info and bumbling about until something works. Detailed, action-oriented explainations are appreciated.

Can I use my DSL modem/router to act only as a wireless router?

ocha-no-mizu — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:04:33 -0800

Can I use my DSL modem/router to act only as a wireless router? I'm replacing my DSL service with cable internet. Instead of paying for the cable company's wireless router, I'd rather use my existing DSL modem/router if I can. Is it as simple as plugging the cable modem into the DSL modem/router?

For what it's worth, my DSL modem/router is a 2wire 2700HG-B.

Looking for Windows or OSX network diagnostic tools to fix internet dropping

dpollitt — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 10:01:03 -0800

Looking for Windows or OSX network diagnostic tools. Our internet connection will drop wireless every 10-15mins... Our internet connection will drop wireless every 10-15mins, forcing any user in the house to either 'repair' in Windows XP, restart in Windows, or turn Airport On/Off in OSX. This almost always works, but has become obviously annoying.

I have bought a new router, with the same results. Charter (cable company) has come out and said our line quality at the box and cable modem is plenty strong(not that I believe them, but that's what they claim). We use 2-3 computers daily, with Vista, XP, and OSX all with the same issue.

I've upgraded firmware on modem and router. Any other suggestions for software or solutions to try and figure out the issue?

Tech Specs:
Router: DLink WBR-2310
Modem: Linksys BEFCMU10 Ver 2

Comcast, from the gates of hell I spit at thee!

jadepearl — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:41:56 -0800

DSL in Minneapolis. Recommendations, experiences, ISPs of note. Comcast is awful. I get horrible digital service and the speed is nothing impressive. I am probably going to go satellite for cable but I need internet service that is fast, reliable and not too expensive. I have a wireless network in the house and use Apple TV. I do a lot of work online so lots of uploading and downloading.

Leave me alone!

ericales — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 14:37:57 -0800

How can I get a modem to stop calling my cell phone? It's actually my brother's cell phone. I have looked here, here, here, and here. Except this is definitely a modem calling. It calls anywhere from 20 to 200 times a day generally filling up his voicemail box. It's always the same number. The cell phone company (ATT) says the only option is to change his number. He has contacted various law enforcement agencies none of which have offered any assistance. He paid for information on the owner of the number and contacted the business listed. They said that it was their number at one time, but that they no longer control it.

Checking with some folks at work I got the idea to forward it to another modem, we'll see how that works. Another idea my brother has had is to hook up an old computer of his and constantly dial the number. Any other ideas?

I don't want to call India again...

wastelands — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:27:09 -0800

Why does my DSL connection keep dropping connections? I have a DSL connection from Qwest. The last couple weeks, I have seen the following:

* My connection with a torrent tracker drops (red arrows in uTorrent)
* My connection with an IRC server drops several times a day
* Often my browser will take a long time to start downloading web pages... I have to try the address again to "reset" it, otherwise it will just spin for a long time

No major hardware or software changes, except for minor stuff like upgrading VLC player, installing Chrome, the usual software changes. (Note: I'm on XP SP3... relatively fresh install, a few months old)

Normally I'd bug my ISP, but the last time I did that, they gave me a rated-limited modem. So instead of getting 5 Mb/s down, I was getting a third of that, and uploads were also slower. So I'm sticking with my old, but trusty, DSL modem from 2006. Is it just crapping out?

Is there anything I can do? I've tried unplugging power from the modem, waiting a minute, and plugging back in. Tried rebooting the computer. My overall speed for download/upload is the same as always, but it just keeps dropping connections.

Any help is appreciated!

Does using 3G modem is safe?

nagalr — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 11:11:05 -0800

When I'm using my laptop to surf the web with a USB modem on AT&T 3G network, Does the surfing is secure as landline? can I check my bank-account that way safely? Does some security-issues exist? (like using a public wi-fi hot-spot)

What do I need to get this laptop online?

Frasermoo — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 07:16:53 -0800

Help me get a laptop online please. I have been given an old laptop, Dell Latitude CPx 650. It needs a battery, and CD drive which I'm ok with, but what card do I need to get it online?

Ideally I'd like the option to go wifi and cable.

Ta.

Help with IPAQ

CollectiveMind — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:25:01 -0800

I have an HP iPAQ 2750. Around the same time it was manufactured, lots of aftermarket hardware and software came out with promises to enhance the device. One of those applications was a GPRS/GSM plug in modem (via the CF Card slot) and software from a company called Enfora. The modem was bundled with software from a company called BVRP. There was other software without a modem which also installed phone tools on the PDA from another company called WebToGo. HP sells the modem from Enfora which it claims is compatible with the iPAQ. But after many tries to install it, it seems ActiveSync 4.0 (which is what the iPAQ came with) was preventing it. I upgraded to ActiveSync 4.5 but still no luck with the Enfora/BVRP software.

I assumed the modem to be generic enough to work with any phone tools software, so I found different phone tools from WebToGo. Their phone tools did load onto the iPAQ. But after lots of calls to TMobile and more onliine chats with HP, I can't get the modem to see the TMobile network - this even after getting TMobile's cell to network number (*99#) and its modem string and web address.

I also thought there might be some issues with Windows Mobile 2003. I tried to upgrade to Windows Mobile 5, but the connection kept dropping. After going through that a few times, I decided the upgrade was more trouble than it's worth. Besides, all of the hardware and software says they work with Pocket PC 2002 and Windows Mobile 2003 anyway and the latter is what the iPAQ came with. So I decided that probably wasn't the problem.

I know I could just buy a smartphone, but I really like the iPAQ. But I don't want to keep carrying an iPAQ and a cell phone around - cluttered. If there are hackers who can break open an iPhone, it seems there should be somebody who can make this work? It seems like I'm almost there. Does anybody have any advice?

Recommend a DSL modem

SECONDHANDSMOTE — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 09:43:29 -0800

Recommend a Speakeasy compatible DSL modem (in Portland, if that helps.) I need recommendations for a DSL modem that will work with Speakeasy's service in Portland, OR. I am getting service in a few days, but they're cutting me a deal and starting service almost right away because I 'own' my own hardware 'already'. They are using the "Broadxent 8012-V" Link and I'd like to purchase my own modem that is compatible with the same services.