5 mistakes to avoid when setting up your cable modem router

January 4, 2022

When you set up your cable modem router, there are a few things to make sure of so that get the best WiFi and Internet connection. These things have to do with properly placing the device, testing it, protecting it and more.

Before and after setting up your cable modem router, refer to this checklist of 5 mistakes to avoid.

 

5 common mistakes while setting up your router, why, and how to fix them

Use this checklist to avoid issues with your cable modem router connection:

1) Cable modem router placement

Mistake: Don’t put the device in tucked away places like back rooms, basements, cabinets, or on the floor. This hurts your signal connection.
Why: Many objects can become obstacles for your WiFi signal if it’s not placed in a central location, creating interference, and impeding your WiFi performance.
How to fix: Placing your cable modem router in a central location in your home will ensure your devices and WiFi access points are able to stay connected with a signal.

 

2) Avoid signal interferences

Mistake: This one is related to the placement as well. Also try to avoid signal interference. Interferences include large, metal objects (like a fridge or microwave), concrete and brick walls, Bluetooth devices, in-floor heating and other items that run on radio frequency.
Why: By avoiding signal interferences, you will have less dropped calls and connectivity issues.
How to fix: Place your cable modem router in a cleared area away from interferences. Up off the floor is best.

 

3) Check which frequency band you’re connected to

Mistake: Leaving your device automatically connected to 2.4GHz band.
Why: The 2.4GHz band isn’t all bad, but the 5GHz band is way better. It is less busy and therefore reduces congestion and makes your connection better.
How to fix: Try changing your frequency from 2.4GHz to 5GHz, since it is a less busy channel.

 

4) Make sure your Coax TV Outlet is Working

Mistake: Not testing your Coax TV outlet before plugging in your cable modem router and dealing with the frustration and time of troubleshooting connectivity issues.
Why: Testing the coax outlet helps you find a valid cable Internet signal. It helps you answer questions like: What if your Internet isn’t working? Are you even receiving a signal from your Cable Internet provider? Is it just an issue with your coax outlet? Testing your coaxial cable for Internet can help you quickly and accurately pin-point an issue if there is any.
How to fix: Using the DSS-01 Coax Cable Tester is an accurate and easy way to find a signal from your Cable Internet provider. It’s easier than using other types of testers that only detect voltage.

 

5) Update your cable modem router’s firmware

Mistake: Trusting everything right out of the box.
Why: Just because your device is brand new doesn’t mean it is inherently protected.
How to fix: Simply make sure your firmware is up to date on the device and keep your cable modem router updated as often as possible. This protects again any malware attacks, which can take up your bandwidth and spread across your network. This can become both a safety issue and a slow WiFi issue.

 

Each of these mistakes aren’t going to cost you big, but with the knowledge on how to avoid them and putting in the low effort to avoid them will have a big pay off in the end for your good WiFi and Internet connections.

To test your Coax TV outlets and wiring, get Hitron’s DSS-01 Coax Cable Tester on Amazon so you can always test, troubleshoot and adjust when needed. For more set up tips like this check out Hitron’s Learn Page and blog.

 

Recent Posts

What is the difference between 1G and 2.5G Ethernet?

The quick answer to this question is that 2.5G Ethernet is 2.5x faster than 1G Ethernet. But there’s a bit more to know about it than that. Here’s what you need to know: 1G and 2.5G are what is called Multi-Gig Ethernet speeds. Multi-Gig Ethernet ranges from 1Gbps to...

How do you check if a cable is live without a multimeter?

Multimeters measure the electric current and voltage of wires in your walls. But existing voltage doesn’t always mean that your Cable Internet is active on that coax wiring or outlet. Voltage detection is not always the most reliable way to know if your Internet set...

What is the best cable modem for Gigabit Internet?

The best cable modem for Gigabit speed plans is an approved DOCSIS 3.1 modem. These guarantee gigabit speeds from most cable Internet service providers (ISPs). While there are many “top” and “best-of lists” out there for “the best modem for gigabit speed”, keep in...

What cable do I need for 2.5G Ethernet?

If you’re looking to upgrade your home or office network to the faster speeds of 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, you’ll need the right cable to get it done. Having the right cable is essential in order to take advantage of these higher speeds, so let’s take a look at what kind...

Do modems get slower over time?

Your modem is arguably the most important piece of technology in your home.  This is because it is what sits between you and your ISP to transmit and transfer Internet speeds and data.  Keeping your modem up-to-date as well as updated, will affect your Internet...

These Hitron products are now available on Amazon!

You can own high-quality, Carrier-grade products!

Coax Cable Tester

DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem

MoCA 2.5 Coax to Ethernet Adapter

Let me know when the OS2210 is available?