5 Warning Signs Your Cable Modem is Dying - Hitron Americas (2024)

February 9, 2021

If you are renting your cable modem, you shouldn’t have to deal with your cable modem dying. But if it does, you can reach out to your Internet service provider (ISP) for a replacement. But if you bought and own your cable modem, that’s another story.

There are 5 signs to look out for to know if your cable modem is dying, failing, or “going bad.”

  1. Connection indicator lights have turned off even if you can still surf the web.
  2. Data transfers/downloads are slow.
  3. The connection speeds are slow.
  4. The modem is making a lot of loud or weird noises.
  5. The modem turns off or stops functioning.

It’s important to note that some of these problems are a result of other things. For example, weak power sources, low bandwidth, or ISP issues.

You can learn more about how to easily test your Internet connection with a Coax Testing Tool that will tell you if there is an issue with your modem, coax connection or with your Internet Service Provider.

If your cable modem is showing any of these warning signs, it is likelytime to upgrade. We have covered the “must-have” features of a cable modem and created a checklist for you to help you when choosing the right cable modem since it can depend on your home network set up and your needs.

You can try troubleshooting, but sometimes trying to fix a modem that is on its way out isn’t cost effective. Cable modems have life spans and you are better off replacing your old one. Above all else, you must ensure your cable modem is compatible with your Internet Service Provider before purchasing.

Cable modems with DOCSIS 3.1 technology have the latest features and fastest speeds available from your Internet Service Provider. In fact, a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem can “future-proof” your connection by always delivering the fastest possible speeds.

The Hitron CODADOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem is available for purchase on Amazon.Need more information about cable modems, cable routers, or other home networking solutions? Check out Hitron’sLearn Page.

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5 Warning Signs Your Cable Modem is Dying - Hitron Americas (2024)

FAQs

5 Warning Signs Your Cable Modem is Dying - Hitron Americas? ›

Reduced Internet Speeds and Performance

As mentioned before, reduced connection speeds and poor performance are key signs that your modem is starting to have problems. This can be your first warning sign that you need to get a new modem before you are left without internet connectivity due to your modem failing.

How do I know if my cable modem is dying? ›

Reduced Internet Speeds and Performance

As mentioned before, reduced connection speeds and poor performance are key signs that your modem is starting to have problems. This can be your first warning sign that you need to get a new modem before you are left without internet connectivity due to your modem failing.

How do I know if my cable modem needs to be replaced? ›

Here's a checklist to determine if your cable modem might be the issue:
  1. You can't connect to the internet.
  2. Your Internet connection randomly drops out.
  3. You frequently have to reset or restart your modem.
  4. Your streaming is lagging.
  5. Your internet speeds are inconsistent.
  6. Your modem's indicator light remains unlit.
Nov 30, 2021

How long do Hitron modems last? ›

When you compare DOCSIS 3.0 vs DOCSIS 3.1 technology, your older DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem is only capable of delivering speeds from your ISP up to 1 Gbps, while a DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem is capable of delivering speeds up to 10 Gbps! Most modems last between 2-5 years, depending on Internet usage and needs.

How do I know when it's time for a new modem? ›

Frequent internet disconnects – If you frequently lose your internet connection, it may be a modem issue. Check first to be sure your cable connection is secure. Lag time – Buffering during video conferencing or when you are streaming HD video content.

What is the life expectancy of a cable modem? ›

On average, a modem can last between 2 to 5 years. However, the actual lifespan can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the modem, usage patterns, and technological advancements. Remember, some of the best modems come with a warranty, which you might want to consider.

How do you tell if you need a new modem or router? ›

7 Signs You Should Upgrade Your Router
  1. You Have a Very Old Router. ...
  2. Your Connection Keeps Dropping. ...
  3. It Feels Slower Than Normal. ...
  4. Your Router Is Overheating. ...
  5. You Have Inadequate Coverage for Your Space. ...
  6. Your Router Can't Keep Up With Newer Devices. ...
  7. It's Incompatibile With Newer Devices.
Jan 18, 2024

Do cable modems wear out? ›

Most cable modems last about 4 to 5 years, depending upon hardware quality. However, like any electronic device, it can go bad anytime. That's why I recommend choosing a modem or modem/router combo with a longer warranty. Furthermore, various factors determine the lifespan of a modem.

How to tell if a modem or router is bad? ›

5 Signs You Need a New Router
  1. Slow Speeds. Slow internet speeds are hard to miss. ...
  2. Weak Connection. Your Wi-Fi signal keeps dropping, and it's getting in the way of you getting anything done while you're working from home. ...
  3. Malfunctioning Equipment. ...
  4. Incompatibility With Newer Devices. ...
  5. Overheating.

Is hitron a modem or a router? ›

The Hitron modem replaces your existing router to handle your primary network.

How to check modem health? ›

5 Quick Things to Check
  1. Check the Status lights. This might seem too simple, but the lights on your cable modem indicate the status of your modem and can tell you if there are any issues. ...
  2. Check the power supply. ...
  3. Reboot/Restart your router and modem. ...
  4. Check your Ethernet cables. ...
  5. Disconnect unused devices.
Mar 22, 2022

How much does a new modem cost? ›

Buying a new DSL or cable modem and router can cost anywhere from $50-$350 each.

When should you replace your modem? ›

If you are unsure if it's time to upgrade your cable modem, or if it's simply some troubleshooting you need, look for these signs:
  1. Troubles connecting to the Internet.
  2. Internet connection randomly dropping out.
  3. Having to reset or restart your modem.
  4. Video streaming or gaming lags often.
  5. Internet speeds are inconsistent.
Jul 14, 2022

How can I test to see if my modem is bad? ›

Turn off Wi-Fi on your computer to ensure you're connecting to the internet via ethernet. Open Google Search and type "internet speed test," and select Run Speed Test. If the resulting download and upload speeds are far below what you should be getting, this may indicate a failing modem.

How often do cable modems go bad? ›

Most cable modems last about 4 to 5 years, depending upon hardware quality. However, like any electronic device, it can go bad anytime. That's why I recommend choosing a modem or modem/router combo with a longer warranty. Furthermore, various factors determine the lifespan of a modem.

How do I check my cable modem? ›

Things You Should Know
  1. Log into your modem. Check your modem's stages, power levels, and SNR values. ...
  2. Look through the event log. Look fo anything that lists a status code of "Critical" or similar. ...
  3. Unplug and replug the modem to reset your internet connection.

How to know if a modem is not working? ›

This might seem too simple, but the lights on your cable modem indicate the status of your modem and can tell you if there are any issues. Check the status of the power lights first, if it's off, you have lost your connection (or power).

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