How to Troubleshoot a Linksys Router and a Motorola SB5101 Modem

Computer modems connect to the Internet.

A Motorola SB5101 computer modem will transfer signals from the Internet to your Linksys router, which will in turn broadcast those signals for your computer to receive and use. If you're experiencing a problem with your connection, you can be sure that it lies with one of the two aforementioned devices. Troubleshooting these devices is easy, luckily, and can be done with your computer.

Instructions

1. Unplug the power cable from your Linksys router. Leave it unplugged for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This will clear the Linksys router's internal memory. Any network connection problems that were a result of an error being stored in the memory will now be cleared, and the device will be able to function properly.

2. Unplug the power cable from your Motorola modem. Leave it unplugged for 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This will clear the Motorola modem's internal memory. Any network connection problems that were a result of an error being stored in the memory will now be cleared, and the device will be able to function properly.

3. Make sure all cables are secured correctly in their devices. An Ethernet cable will not be able to transfer network data to and from devices if the cables are not connected properly. Make sure all Ethernet cables are plugged in correctly to the Motorola modem, the Linksys router and the computers in your network.

4. Repair your network adapter software. Right click on the icon for your computer's internal network adapter and click "Repair." This will disable the internal network adapter, analyze it for problems and then enable it. If either your modem or your router were having difficulties communicating with the internal adapter, these problems will be fixed once the repair procedure has taken place.

5. Make sure the coaxial Internet cable is screwed on securely to the back of your Motorola modem. If this cable is not screwed on securely, the modem will not be able to receive Internet communications, which will cause problems for the modem, your router and your computers.

References

• Microsoft: Troubleshooting Network Connection Problems