Is your internet connection unstable? That’s why your modem or router’s red light is on or flashing.
Having an unstable internet connection can be frustrating. You may have to spend more time getting simple things done.
Poor internet service means you can’t video-call friends, check your emails, surf the web and do things you normally do.
If you can’t access the internet, checking your router’s light is one way to know something is wrong. You may discover that the device’s light has turned red.
The question now is, what does the red light mean? This post will answer the questions on the broadband red light.
Why is my broadband light red?
There are several reasons why your broadband light has turned red. Check them out below.
The first reason could be the gateway. There’s a chance it is not functioning properly.
Is DSL or broadband signal detected? If not, that’s the likely culprit.
Finally, there’s a chance the gateway isn’t connecting to your internet service provider.
All three cases can make your broadband light red. When it turns red, or the red color starts flashing, your router doesn’t have an internet connection.
When there’s no internet connection, you know what that means. You’ll have difficulty surfing the web, interacting with friends on social media, or doing other things that require an internet connection.
So, has your broad light turned red? Continue reading to discover how to fix the problem.
What Different Broadband Light Represents
Router makers understand users may want to know the strength and status of their broadband when trying to connect to the internet.
For this reason, routers and modems have varied lights. We explained earlier that red light means several things. There is no internet connectivity when this light displays.
Besides red lights, broadband also displays green lights. And the light could be flashing or be on standby.
Briefly, here’s what each light on a modem or router represents.
#1: Broadband red light flashing:
When you see your broadband red light flashing, don’t panic! Your router or modem may have likely not developed a fault. Yes, there’s a high possibility that the router or modem is still in good shape.
Now, why’s the red light flashing? The flashing indicates that the signal had already been detected, but the connection wasn’t established.
In other words, there’s no internet connection. Thus, you can’t surf the web, interact, stream content or do things online.
#2: Broadband displays solid red light:
Again, this light doesn’t mean your modem is faulty. Something else is wrong. It means no signal, and thus, you cannot connect to the internet.
You cannot browse the internet unless you address the problem. That’s what happens when the red light is on standby.
#3: Broadband green light flashing:
Something good is about to take place when the green light starts flashing. This light indicates that you’re about to get a broadband connection or the device is trying to power up.
#4: Broadband green light is solid:
Is your router or modem displaying solid green light? It is a good thing. This light means the broadband signal is available and strong.
Know that you can browse the internet comfortably when the solid green light displays. The green light is what every internet user wants to see their modem or router display.
#5: Flashing yellow light:
What message is this light trying to pass? It’s trying to inform you that the LTE device is where it is supposed to be, but it’s not functioning appropriately.
A Handy Tip: The meaning of some lights could vary in some modems and routers. So, check the manufacturer manual to know each device’s colors, including what they signify.
How To Repair Broadband Red Light Issues
Is your gateway, router, or modem displaying red light? You can fix the problem in several ways.
You can do it without technical experience, and you don’t need professional help. Follow the tips below to troubleshoot or fix the broadband red light problem straightaway.
#1: Update router firmware:
When was the last time you updated your router firmer? Well, it’s not your fault. You might have been super busy and forgot to update the firmware.
There’s a chance the red flashing globe displayed by your router is because of the outdated firmware. You have to update it. Otherwise, that red light you’re seeing won’t go away.
Here are the simple steps to take.
- Supply your router’s IP address in the browser
- Provide your password and username to gain access to your account
- Download firmware that’s “up-to-date.” It would be available in your account if an update were necessary.
- Upload the downloaded firmware to complete the process.
That’s it. You have updated your router’s firmware. Check if the red flashing globe has turned to bright white light. Well, it should if a firmware update was the issue.
#2: Device overheating:
Have you been using your router or modem for several hours? If yes, chances are they have started overheating.
Overheating can affect the normal operations of modems or routers. It can prevent them from producing enough signals.
How can you determine if your router or modem is overheating? It is simple.
You can determine this by feeling the device with your bare hands.
How do you solve such problems? Well, your router or modem is still in good shape. Just disconnect the router or modem and give them time to cool down.
You can start using the router or modem after 20 seconds.
A Handy Tip: You can prevent overheating by disconnecting your router or modem whenever they’re not in use.
So, if overheating is the issue, restart the gateway, and everything will be back to normal.
#3: Initiate modem reset:
If your modem is displaying a red light, try resetting it. This simple action can help fix the red light problem and get your modem to start working properly again.
How can you reset the AT&T modem?
You can do this in two ways.
The first step:
- Locate the reset button. You’ll find it at the modem’s rear end.
- Press and hold the modem’s reset button for 30 seconds.
- Release the reset button.
That’s it. You have succeeded in resetting your modem.
The second step:
This step also involves resetting your modem. But here, you have to login into your modem to initiate the reset.
A Handy Tip: Please remember that resetting your modem will return its settings to default.
What does this imply? You’ll lose your Wi-Fi usernames, SSID, and passwords, including static IP. The only good thing is your modem might start working well again.
#4: Check for interferences:
Is there any device disturbing or interfering with your router, making it difficult for the router to generate a strong signal? If there is, you’ll find the red light flashing.
Several objects can interfere with your router’s signal. Check them out below.
A list of signal interference and disturbances
- The TV
- Bluetooth
- Microwave oven
- Walkie-talkies
- Baby monitors
- Washing machine
- Thick timber walls
- Cordless mobile device
- Your neighbor’s network
- Separate wireless network present in your home
#5: Reposition your router:
Have you thought about the possibility of your router’s position being the reason for the red light displayed?
There’s a chance that the router is receiving a poor signal where you stationed it. So, try to change its position and see if that helps.
#6: Check for internet outage:
Your internet service provider could be experiencing an internet outage that you’re not aware of. If that’s the case, you’re not the only one affected.
How can you find out if an internet outage is an issue? You can contact other persons using the same internet service provider as you.
Another quick way to know if your ISP is having issues is by checking their official website for recent updates.
#7: Inform your internet service provider:
If you have tried all you could and couldn’t get positive results, contact your ISP customer service agents.
However, let this be your last option to resolve the issue. And be polite, even though the poor internet service is frustrating. Your ISP (internet service provider) is probably not happy a customer has challenges using their service.
Conclusion
Why is my broadband light red? The light indicates that something is wrong with the router, modem, or gateway you’re using. The device is generating little or no signal. Therefore, you can’t connect to the internet.
Try to identify the issue and fix it. You can try one or all the tips shared here and see which one of them can help you solve the problem.
