Why Is My Modem Flashing Continuously?
A continuously flashing modem is nothing to be concerned about. In fact, it’s an indication that the device is working properly. As long as the modem is receiving power and is connected to a cable or phone line, it is filtering data transmissions that are required for it and its connected devices to remain in contact.
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Technology
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Any device linked to a modem through a wire is part of the modem’s Ethernet local area network. The modem is constantly filtering small data packets that contain 32-bit Internet Provider addresses, converting them into 48-bit Ethernet addresses required by connected devices, such as wireless routers and personal computers. Even while devices connected to the modem are not using the network, the modem continues filtering the data packets using a process known as the Address Resolution Protocol.
Connections
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Although a wireless router provides you with the option of connecting to the Internet wirelessly, the router itself relies on a connection to a modem to provide wireless access to the Web. If your router is the only device connected to the modem, the modem will continue to flash as it applies the ARP process. Typically, when a device that is linked to a modem is accessing the Internet, the flashing occurs more frequently or may appear as a constantly lit light. If the modem has nothing connected to it, the flashing lights occur less frequently or may cease altogether. As more devices access the modem through a router, the flashing lights increase in frequency.
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Multicast Packets
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Many older modems produce flashing lights while filtering multicast packets of data. These types of data transmissions were used to provide multiple devices with access to the modem but are largely not used anymore because of the advent of wireless routers. If your modem is an older model, the constantly flashing lights may also occur when the device filters multicast transmissions. Most new modems automatically filter these types of transmissions but may still flash before the filtering takes place.
Security
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As long as any devices connected to your modem’s Ethernet are virus free, there is nothing to worry about when the modem is constantly flashing. Enabling the computer’s firewall and installing anti-virus software can help you protect your computer against any harm that can be produced by the ARP. You can ensure your computer remains virus free by conducting a scan using the anti-virus application, which identifies and eliminates any potential threats to the computer.
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References
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