Your cable modem shows all the right lights — power, online, and activity indicators are glowing green — but your devices still can’t reach the internet. This frustrating situation typically means your modem is connected to your ISP but something downstream is blocking your actual internet access.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Step 1: Power Cycle Everything (2 minutes)
Turn off your cable modem by unplugging its power cord. Wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. While the modem boots up (takes about 2 minutes), also restart your router if you have a separate one. This simple reset clears temporary glitches and forces fresh connections between all devices.
Step 2: Check Your Router Connection (1 minute)
Look at the Ethernet cable running from your modem to your router. The cable should click firmly into both ports. If you see a damaged cable or loose connection, replace it with a Cat5e or Cat6 cable. Many internet outages happen because pets, vacuum cleaners, or furniture accidentally disconnect this crucial cable.
Step 3: Test Direct Modem Connection (5 minutes)
Bypass your router completely. Connect your computer directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable. On Windows 11, go to Settings > Network & Internet to check your connection status. Mac users should check System Settings > Network. If internet works with this direct connection, your router is the problem.
Step 4: Reset Network Settings on Your Device (3 minutes)
Your computer might have corrupted network settings. On Windows, open Command Prompt as administrator and type these commands one by one:
“`
ipconfig /release
ipconfig /renew
ipconfig /flushdns
“`
Mac users should go to System Settings > Network, select your connection, click Advanced, then Renew DHCP Lease.
Step 5: Factory Reset Your Router (10 minutes)
Find the small reset button on your router (usually on the back). Hold it down with a paperclip for 10-15 seconds while the router is powered on. This erases all settings, so you’ll need to reconfigure your WiFi name and password afterward. Check your router’s label for the default login credentials.
Step 6: Check ISP Account Status (5 minutes)
Log into your internet provider’s website or mobile app. Verify your account is active and payments are current. Even with all modem lights on, ISPs can suspend service for overdue bills or maintenance issues. Look for any service alerts specific to your area code in 2025.
Likely Causes
Cause #1: Router Configuration Issues
Your router might have incorrect settings blocking internet traffic. This often happens after firmware updates or power outages. Check your router’s admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and verify the WAN settings match your ISP’s requirements. Most cable internet uses automatic DHCP configuration, but some providers require specific settings.
Cause #2: DNS Server Problems
Your devices might struggle to translate website names into IP addresses. Test this by trying to visit 8.8.8.8 in your browser. If that loads Google’s DNS page but regular websites don’t work, you have a DNS issue. Change your DNS servers to Google (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) in your router settings or device network configuration.
Cause #3: IP Address Conflicts
Multiple devices trying to use the same IP address will block internet access. This typically occurs when you have two routers on the same network or after adding new smart home devices. Check if your modem has built-in router functionality (many 2025 models do). If yes, either use it as your only router or enable bridge mode to prevent conflicts.
When to Call Expert Help
Contact your ISP’s technical support when direct modem connection fails after trying all steps above. Have your account number and modem’s MAC address ready (found on the device label). Call during off-peak hours like mid-morning weekdays for shorter wait times.
Request a technician visit if the representative confirms your modem is online but can’t restore service remotely. Physical line issues, damaged splitters, or regional outages require professional equipment to diagnose and fix. Most ISPs in 2025 offer same-day or next-day appointments for complete service failures.
Copy-Paste Prompt for AI Help
Use this prompt for additional troubleshooting assistance:
“My cable modem shows all lights are on and green, but I have no internet access on any device. I’ve already power cycled the modem and router. My ISP is [provider name], modem model is [model number], and router is [router model]. I’m using [Windows/Mac/Linux] on my computer. What specific troubleshooting steps should I try next? Please provide commands or settings ideal for my exact setup.”
Remember that stable modem lights indicate your connection to the ISP works properly. The issue lies somewhere between your modem and your devices. Stay patient, work through each step methodically, and you’ll likely restore your internet connection without needing a service call.