Now that you have purchased a modem for an internet connection, it’s time for you to set it up! It may seem intimidating at first, but, setting up your modem is a simple and easy process. You don’t need to be a technician to do that. We are here to help you learn the step-by-step method and do it yourself without needing any external help.
How Do I Setup and Activate a Modem?
You can follow these instructions to set up and activate your modem at home. But, before getting started, you need to check whether your Wi-Fi is built into your modem or not. If not, you need to set up your router before following these instructions:
Step 1-Prepare Your Modem Info
First, you need to compile all the information required by your internet service provider (ISP) to set up and activate your new modem:
1. Your Internet Provider’s Account ID
An account ID helps the internet provider to identify its users. Check your last billing statement to know your account ID. Sometimes, your ISP may check your account details using your name, residential address, or the last few digits of your social.
2. Serial Number (S/N)
Although most cable providers ask you to provide your MAC address only, some ISPs may also require the serial number of your device. You can look up your serial number under the MAC address, labeled as “serial”, “SN”, or “S/N.”
3. MAC Address
Your MAC address is a 12-character string that helps you and your ISP to identify your modem. Every modem is assigned a unique MAC ID. Therefore, most ISPs ask for your MAC address while resolving an issue or setting up your connection. You can find your MAC address on a sticker at the back of your modem device.
You may notice that there are many instances of MAC addresses on your device. For example, a Wi-Fi modem is assigned with a WLAN MAC address. Similarly, a telephony modem has an eMTA MAC address. To set up and activate your modem, you will need to use your MAC or CMAC (cable) address.
Step 2-Disconnect Your Old Modem Before Connecting Your New Modem
Now, you need to get rid of your old modem by disconnecting its Ethernet and coaxial cables and using them for your new modem.
Step 3-Confirm Internet Access
Most modems come with five different status lights labeled as “Link/Activity”, “Online/Internet”, “Upload/Send”, “Download/Receive”, and “Power”. After connecting your device for the first time, you will notice that the lights on your modem have started blinking. After a few seconds, these lights will go dark except for the “Power” light. With time, these lights will become solid.
Once the “Online/Internet” light stays on, it indicates that your internet connection is stable now.
Step 4-Activate Your New Modem
For activating your new modem, you need to gather all the information you compiled in step 1. Some ISPs may activate your modem if you give them a call. On the other hand, some providers may require you to visit an online activation page.
If you have a modem with built-in Wi-Fi, it will be easier for you to connect to the network with the default login credentials written on the sticker at the back of your modem. You can also lookup for this information in the instruction booklet that comes with a modem.
Step 5-Return Your Old Modem Equipment
Once you have activated your new modem, now you need to return your old rental equipment. You can return it to your ISP’s office by dropping it off or delivering it through a courier service. If you are returning it in person, you will instantly get a receipt as proof of return. This way, you don’t need to wait for the receipt as it will help you avoid issues that may occur if the equipment gets lost along the way.
Step 6-Check Your Next Billing Statement for a Discount
Although you are done with the setup and activation of your new modem, but there are a few things you need to consider. There is a slim chance that your internet provider may not remove your rental fee from your monthly bill. As a result, you will have another unpaid bill in your name. Therefore, you need to recheck your next few billing statements to ensure that you don’t get rental charges anymore.
If you get a bill with the fee in it, get in touch with your internet provider and ask them to resolve this issue. They may ask you to provide proof of return.
Conclusion
The above mentioned steps will make it easier for you to set up and activate your new modem. Once your new connection is ready, you can surf or stream as much as you want. But, if you are experiencing issues, such as unexpected internet slowdowns or data caps, you need to switch to AT&T Internet packages. The provider offers a wide range of internet plans for users who like to stream movies, play online games, or carry out any data-intensive online activity. Contact BuyTVInternetPhone to get the best internet plans in the US.