Resolved A Question about ethernet cables

Is it possible for my ethernet cable, that goes from my computer to the router, could go bad?

I have noticed over the past month or more, that every time I go onto my computer and open my browser, or try to download e-mails, I suddenly lose my Internet connection. Sometimes when that happens, my computer automatically connect via wi-fi, and then when the regular connection goes through, it goes back to that. There is a different icon on my taskbar when it goes from wi-fi to direct Internet connection.

It drives me nuts because it happens so erratically but it does happen every day, and often several times a day. I am wondering if maybe the cable from the computer to the router might be the problem. I am thinking my problem is likely something other than my Internet connection, in general, because my son has a tablet on which he streams Netflix movies and he has not complained about any problems.

Any suggestions?

Thank you,
Sandie

 

Absolutely! While they typically do not go bad just sitting there, they are easily damaged. A simple tug or trip-over can damage the wire's crimp connection inside the connector. The cable itself can be pinched (or chewed on by critters).I have even had brand new cables be bad (which is why I now make my own).

Fortunately, these very low tech but critical network devices are very affordable and can be purchased at Wal-mart, Best Buy or any computer store.

By chance is it when he is streaming when you lose your connection? He may be hogging your bandwidth. Note you can set device priorities in your router's admin menu to make sure your computer takes precedence over his Netflix connection. Because of the way Netflix buffers data, it should not affect his streaming.

 

Thank you Bill,

I will purchase another cable then and see if that solves the problem. As to my son, no it does not only happen when he is using his tablet. Often it happens when he is not using the tablet at all. Sometimes the router does lose the Internet connection too, but I have called and reported that problem and I was told there were no issues on my line. In other words, deal with it. If replacing the cable does not fix the problem my service supplier is going to wish they had listened to me in the beginning............

Thank you very much for your quick reply. I

 

And there may not have been at that moment when they checked.

It sounds like you have an integrated "residential gateway device". This is a network device that integrates the router, modem, 4-port Ethernet switch, and WAP (wireless access point) into a single box. It is important to understand these are really 4 discrete network devices that just happen to share the same case, PCB (printed circuit board) and power supply. If you had a separate router and modem like I do, I would suggest you swap out the cable between the router and modem too - even though it sounds like your modem is fine (since you son's connection is not affected).

When you get your new cable, I suggest you try a different Ethernet port on the back of your router. Those ports can go bad too.

Good luck and please keep us posted.

 

Yes, I do have what you said, a single device that works as modem and router, issued by Verizon. They would not allow me to use my own router. I originally had one of my own, and they made me disconnect it and told me I had to use their device. I will do as you suggest though if I have any problems using the same connection after I get the new ethernet cable. Thank you again for the advice. I appreciate it because I would never have thought of that myself.

Sandie

 

For the record, you can use your own router. Sadly, because of poor marketing tactics and terminologies, consumers confuse the terms of many networking devices these days and often call the modem or gateway device "router" too. Verizon may require you use their modem or ONT (optical network terminal for fiber networks), but you can use your own router too. That said, there is probably no advantage for you to do so if you must use their modem as it has an integrated router (and WAP and 4-port Ethernet switch) already.

Many prefer to own their own devices because you typically save money in the long run by not having to pay rental fees month after month. But the advantage to renting their supplied devices is it is their responsibility to make sure they work.

Hopefully, the new cable or different Ethernet port will resolve your problem. If it doesn't, then it may be a problem with your computer.

 

Hi Bill,

This is not necessarily so, at least not with Verizon. They told me if I require a new router, or whatever it is, I have to pay $50 for it. As far as I know I do not pay a monthly rental fee because I think the cost might have been in the original fee when it was originally installed. They did check my router and it is still under warranty, which is why I would have to pay $50 if I insist they replace it. And as they found no problems with my service, I am trying to find anything else that could be affecting my connection, and that was why I asked about the Ethernet cable. If a new cable does not fix the problem I will have to have Verizon send someone out to find out what is causing the problem and if it should end up being the "integrated" device, then I will just have to fork over the cost to replace it. They sort of have the final say on these matters. There is no other provider in my area, other than satellite, and I simply can't afford that, and I don't think satellite is more reliable and DSL anyway. I have satellite TV service, and get a little snow on the dish or ice, and that goes out quickly enough, but my Verizon DSL keeps working unless all power is gone.

Sandie

 

Then that suggests you bought the device from them instead of renting it. And that's certainly possible.

But again, in this country (and I see you live in the US), they cannot force us to buy or rent from them. It is necessary to get compatible modems, however. And your local Verizon website should have a list of compatible devices, should you decide to buy your own from someone else. I suspect your local Best Buy or other consumer electronics store will know too.

Many don't realize they are renting because the fee is rolled into their monthly payment, along with several other fees, surcharges and taxes for this and that.

I sure would not pick satellite over DSL either - especially if your son does a lot of streaming.

 

Hi Bill,
I appreciate you leaving that last remark. Now I feel better about sticking with my DSL. I also do not use a cell phone but a landline only. As I said, too remote, no cell reception where I live.
As for my local friendly Best Buy, that is about 50 miles away, so not so local for me. LOL
It is very possible I bought the modem/router and never knew it. As I said, I had a very nice router I had been using, and had just purchased a newer updated router, when Verizon arrived to say they were upgrading the system, and removed my router, and told me I was required to use theirs. So my other brand-new router is still here, never having been hooked up. LOL I should have returned it, but never bothered.