This article shows you how to restart a network modem without physically disconnecting it from the electrical network. Unfortunately, while restarting a normal router can be performed directly remotely, using a computer connected to the LAN, restarting a modem with the same mode is normally not possible, unless it is a device that integrates inside even a network router. If the ISP managing your internet connection only provided you with the modem when you subscribed to the service, you should be able to call technical support or customer service to request a remote restart of the device.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Restart a Modem Router
Step 1. Make sure you have a modem router
It is a network device that integrates both the modem that manages the internet connection, and the router that manages the local LAN. In this scenario, there is only one network device to which the telephone or fiber optic line is connected. If you have a modem router, you should be able to reboot the device remotely.
If the modem that manages the internet connection has been given to you on loan for use by the line manager (Telecom, Vodafone, Fastweb, etc.) and is separate from the network router, refer to this method of the article
Step 2. Make sure you are connected to the LAN managed by the modem router you want to restart
In this case the restart will take place remotely, so you will not need to physically approach the device, but the computer you will use must be connected to the LAN managed by the modem.
Step 3. Find the IP address of the router
You can use both a Windows computer and a Mac.
Step 4. Launch your computer's internet browser
To be able to remotely access the modem router management web interface, you must use an internet browser.
Step 5. Enter the IP address of the network device
Select the browser address bar, type the IP address of the router and press the Enter key. You will be redirected to the modem router configuration and management web page.
Step 6. Log in
If prompted, provide your username and password to log into the device.
If you have not changed the default login credentials to the modem router's web interface, you will find them indicated in the user manual or on an adhesive label on the underside of the device
Step 7. Find the option to reboot the device
Since each device adopts a different web interface, it is very likely that you will have to go through the various administration sections of the router to find the button to remotely reboot. Try examining the following sections of the interface:
- Advanced or Advanced settings;
- Settings or Settings;
- Configuration or Configuration;
- Help or Help or Support;
- Utilities or Administrative tools.
Step 8. Click on the Restart or Restart button
Again, the appearance and label of this button will vary based on the make and model of the network device, so focus your attention on anything related to the items. Restart, Power Cycle or Restart. By clicking the indicated button, the network modem router will automatically restart.
Step 9. Wait for the reboot procedure to complete
The time required to complete this step varies from a few seconds to a few minutes. During the restart phase the computer is disconnected from the network, but once the device is functional again the connection will be restored automatically.
Method 2 of 2: Restart an ISP-Provided Modem
Step 1. Make sure you can perform this procedure
If the modem that manages the internet connection of your home network has been given to you on loan for use by the line manager (Telecom, Vodafone, Fastweb, etc.), you can try calling customer service or technical assistance to ask to restart it remotely. Remember that not all carriers provide this type of service, but this is the only solution available if you cannot physically access the device.
Normally, if the modem is owned by you or not provided to you by your ISP, you will not be able to make this request
Step 2. Determine who is the manager of your internet connection
If you know the company that provided you with the web connection and you do not have the possibility to physically access the modem, you can trace this information by checking the invoices that are sent to you by e-mail or by examining your credit card statement or of debt on your bank's website
Step 3. Look for your ISP's customer service or technical support number
Perform a Google search by entering the name of your internet line operator and the keywords "customer service number", then make a note of the number to call that will appear in the list of results.
For example, if you want to find the Fastweb customer service number, you will need to type the following search string fastweb customer service number into the Google bar and press the Enter key. The required number should appear at the top of the hit list
Step 4. Call your ISP's technical support
Dial the number and wait online. Normally, you will be greeted by an auto responder who will direct you to the correct department based on your needs.
Step 5. Choose the correct options
You will need to select options that allow you to speak to a live operator. The procedure to follow varies from ISP to ISP, so listen carefully to the voice of the answering machine to be able to select the right keys to speak to a customer service agent.
Step 6. Provide the information you will be asked for in order to confirm your identity
When you are greeted by the operator, provide your details: line number, customer number, name, surname and address, so that he knows it's really you.
You may not always have to provide all of the information listed, but in other cases you will need to provide other personal details, such as your date of birth, in order to confirm your identity
Step 7. Ask the operator to restart your home LAN modem
If the operator is able to accommodate and execute your request, they will do so immediately, although in some cases they may first ask you questions about your subscription for further confirmation of your identity.
