DSL Router Troubleshooting

Is it time to upgrade? Use our Sales Inquiry form to contact an Allstream sales representative.


If you are experiencing connectivity issues with your DSL internet service, we suggest you try some of the following options to restore your connection.

Power-cycle the DSL modem

Turning the modem off and back on causes it to re-synchronize the DSL signal and the network connection to your computer. Often, this by itself is enough to fix a DSL connection problem. To do this, unplug the power cord from the DSL modem, wait about 30 seconds, then plug it back in. If you are using an external router, power-cycle it as well.

If you are having to power-cycle the modem more than once a week, please call our repair department at 800‑360‑4467 to open a repair ticket.

Check the ADSL modem lights

The ADSL or link light on the modem should be lit solid, not blinking. This light will flash when the modem is trying to connect to your DSL service. It should take about 30 seconds for your DSL modem to connect and display a solid light. If the DSL Sync light is solid, try the following:

Reboot the computer
It seems trivial, but you should always begin troubleshooting computer problems by rebooting your computer. This is particularly important if your computer has worked fine in the past and has only just begun to exhibit problems.

Check the “LAN” light
The LAN light (labeled “LAN” or “ETHERNET”) should be lit solid or blinking rapidly. The LAN link light will blink when your computer is sending or receiving data. If the link light is not lit, try the following:

  • Make sure the Ethernet cable connecting your DSL modem with your computer is plugged securely into the back of the DSL modem. We suggest you remove and re-plug the cable into the DSL modem and your computer to ensure the cable is plugged in securely. The cable should ‘click’ when it is pushed into place.
  • If you have not done so already, try bypassing the router and running a cable from your computer directly into the DSL modem. This will help you eliminate the possibility that one of these devices may be causing your problem.
  • The cable that connects your DSL modem with your computer may be bad. Try a different cable if possible.

Was this article helpful?

Related Articles