Network connection drops then modem resets

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mrbusto71

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Dec 12, 2013
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Howdy! I have an issue that I've only experienced after getting a new computer. I recently upgraded my box after a few years, and it runs great. Problem is, with the new pc, every time I get online and do too much, I'll get the little yellow triangle at the bottom right of my screen telling me I'm not connected to a network, and then the modem will reset (turns off, then goes through the blinking light routine). This happens daily, but usually only once a day (sometimes twice). I've made sure that my ethernet firmware is up to date, so I'm not sure what's causing this. There are only 3 devices active on the router (roomie's PC, my PC and my cell phone, which I don't actively use at home). Router is a newer Linksys WRT54G and Modem is a Motorola SB5101U.

The disconnect almost always happens if I'm online and my roomie is online too, so I'm not sure if it's the router getting overloaded or the modem causing issues. Any insight or suggestions would be much appreciated!

Side note: I"m not the most tech savvy guy, so any explanation that's heavy on technical terms may go over my head.
 
Solution
aford10
Here's how you test whether it's the modem or router. You put a small switch between the modem and the router. Then you plug a computer into the switch, while the rest of the devices work off the wireless. The next time it goes down, check the computer plugged into that switch. If it's also down, it's a modem issue. If it's not, the problem lies with the router.

Your router isn't dual band, so it's not ideal for multiple devices, but it should still be able to do the job.
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SirSub42

SirSub42

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Aug 31, 2013
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I do not believe the new computer has anything to do with the problem, but rather a coincidence. I have heard of similar problems before where the modem shuts down or restarts under a heavy load. I believe the result was a modem that was nearing the end of it's lifecycle. Give your ISP a call, see if you can sweet talk your way into a free replacement.
 
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mrbusto71

Honorable
Dec 12, 2013
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10,510


Thanks for the input! It's actually a modem I bought (I opted not to lease the cable company's) and apparently I'm outside of my mfg warranty date. I went out and bought a new modem, and we'll see how it goes. Thanks for the input.

Random question: for basic movie streaming and light online gaming, is a Linksys WRT54G out of its depth or should it be just fine? At most there's 4 devices connected at once. Just thought I'd see if a new router is a good idea while I have holiday money to burn :p
 
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aford10

aford10

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Oct 2, 2008
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Here's how you test whether it's the modem or router. You put a small switch between the modem and the router. Then you plug a computer into the switch, while the rest of the devices work off the wireless. The next time it goes down, check the computer plugged into that switch. If it's also down, it's a modem issue. If it's not, the problem lies with the router.

Your router isn't dual band, so it's not ideal for multiple devices, but it should still be able to do the job.
 
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