I have several loose coaxial and Ethernet cables in my basement. My Xfinity Wi-Fi router was originally installed there, and everything worked until I moved the setup into the living room so the signal would reach the top floor better. Since moving it, I have not been able to get the Wi-Fi working. I am not sure which cables belong where or whether every device and power adapter is connected correctly. I would prefer to keep the router in the living room, but I am willing to use another arrangement if necessary. What should I check, and does the AC/DC power supply shown need to be connected too?
3 Answers
With several unlabeled cables, the main challenge is identifying which coax line comes from the cable provider and which Ethernet cable runs to the living room. The modem or gateway needs the incoming coax connection, power, and an active Ethernet connection if the router is separate. You may need to test the cables one at a time or have the provider verify which wall jack is active.
Yes, any AC/DC adapter that belongs to the modem, router, or another networking device needs to be plugged into both the device and a working outlet. Make sure the adapter’s voltage and connector match the device rather than using it interchangeably with another one. If the gateway has no lights, start with power; if it has lights but no internet, check the coax connection and the service status.
The easiest reliable setup is usually the provider’s gateway connected directly to the active coax outlet, with the router connected to the gateway by Ethernet if they are separate. If the living-room coax jack is not connected to the incoming line, the router will not work there without rerouting or activating that cable. An internet provider technician or a cable tester can identify the correct line and reconnect the basement wiring.
That makes sense. I no longer have access to the person who installed it, so I may need to trace or test each cable myself.