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Internet Not Working with Store Bought Modem but Works with Leased Modem

Tags:
  • Motorola
  • Networking
  • Netgear
  • Internet
  • Modem
  • RCA
August 20, 2014 7:48:20 AM

I've been trying to set up a new modem at my parent's house because they have been leasing a modem from Comcast for the past few years and want to save a little money and improve their internet stability. Currently they have a RCA DCM425 modem provided to them by Comcast.

Two nights ago I bought a Netgear CMD31T modem to replace the RCA modem. I called Comcast and registered the MAC address with them and then plugged it in replacing the RCA. All of the lights came on and were either blue or green except for the data stream light which blinked orange. My parents modem is set up in the basement and then they have a router which broadcasts wireless upstairs from one of the Ethernet jacks.

They have a Belkin N600 Dual Band Wireless router. After setting up the new modem I was still able to connect to the wireless however I got new internet signal. Likewise when I connected directly to the router I got no internet. I also tried to connect directly into the Ethernet jack in the wall and was unable to get any internet.

After power cycling both the modem and the router numerous times I was advised to let the modem sit overnight and call back in the morning because it was possible that the modem just wasn't activated yet. The next day I called Comcast again and was still unable to get any internet. I decided to plug the old RCA modem back in. When I did that the internet came back on and I was able to connect through the wireless and any of the Ethernet ports in our house.

Last night I bought a different modem thinking it was the Netgear's issue. Now I bought a Motorola Surfboard SB6141 white retail edition. I called Comcast again and registered the new MAC address and set up the modem. I'm getting the same issue where there is no internet when I plug in the new modem. This time however I was able to get internet when I directly connected my laptop to the modem. But when I plugged the Ethernet back into our Ethernet gateway that feeds all the Ethernet plugs in the house the internet no longer worked. Finally I gave up and plugged the old RCA modem back in and of course the internet works with that modem.

I did however get stuck on the Comcast activation page which required two more phone calls with Comcast to bypass. Our internet is now really slow on the old RCA modem.

So basically I'd like to get this Motorola Surfboard modem working and I'd appreciate any help or insight anyone can offer. Comcast has suggested they send out a new modem which my parents would continue to lease. I believe they are sending one out but I'd still like to get a purchased modem working so they no longer have to pay that fee. Thank you.

More about : internet working store bought modem works leased modem

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