Identify the modem
- It connects to the provider line, such as coax, fiber equipment, or a phone-style cable.
- Its service lights show whether the provider connection is online.
- Restart it first when every device loses internet.
Identify the router
- It broadcasts the Wi-Fi name and usually has several Ethernet ports.
- It controls local addresses, guest networks, and many security settings.
- A router can show Wi-Fi as connected even when the modem has no internet.
Recognize combined gateways
- One provider box may act as both modem and router.
- Adding another router without planning can create double-networking problems.
- Take photos of labels and cables before changing or replacing equipment.
Stop guessing when the problem keeps coming back
Ask for help if you cannot identify the equipment, have two routers competing, or need to replace provider hardware without losing business settings.