How Do I Install a Wireless Cable Modem?
A cable modem acts as the bridge between your incoming cable connection and your computer network. Most cable modems are connected to a router, which provides wireless or wireless connections to multiple computers. A wireless cable modem includes a router within the same hardware. Purchasing a wireless cable modem can save money over time vs. the monthly service fee for a rental modem from your provider.
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Instructions
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Contact your cable Internet service provider to determine if the cable modem you have purchased, or which you intend to buy, is compatible with their service. Most cable modems are interchangeable, but it is preferable to use a brand and model which is verified by your provider, and which they will support if you have customer service issues later.
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Power down the cable modem, and connect a coaxial cable from the wall cable jack to the back of the cable modem. Coaxial cable has a threaded screw end; hand-tighten each end of the cable to ensure that the connection is secure and will not slip.
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Power up the cable modem. The modem will recognize the incoming cable connection, and will begin negotiating an Internet connection with your service provider. This process is called "handshaking." When handshaking is complete, the status lights on the modem will display a successful result; typically, this is indicated by three or four solid green LED lights. If you see a different result, consult your cable modem's manual for troubleshooting specific to that model.
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Connect your computer to the wireless network created by the cable modem. Most models default to an open network without a password. Check the manual for the default name of this network. You can change this in the cable modem administration panel, which is usually accessed with a web browser, by changing the "SSID" of the wireless network. You may also wish to turn on wireless encryption, and set a password for wireless connections; these are typically on a "security" page of the administration panel.
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References
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