Different LEDs for DSL Modems

by Patrick Nelson, Demand Media

With DSL, voice and Internet functions use most of the existing infrastructure.

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DSL Internet provides Internet service over regular copper telephone wires. It's faster than dial-up and allows for voice and Internet to use much of the same existing infrastructure by provisioning each service at different frequencies along the wire and then filtering. DSL requires a modem, much like a dial-up account. You can troubleshoot and identify the status of the modem and Internet service by identifying the different LED lights on the modem.

Step 1

Shut down your computer and unplug the power cable from the back of the DSL modem. Wait 15 seconds and then plug the modem into the power outlet again. Turn the computer back on.

Step 2

Take a look at the DSL modem panel and verify that the "Power" light has illuminated solid. If it hasn't, there's a problem with the power supply. You could try a different outlet.

Step 3

Allow the modem to power up. This can take up to 15 minutes. As the modem powers up, in addition to the solid "Power" light, the "Activity" light will flicker, which is normal. Wait for the "Internet," "DSL" and "Ethernet" lights to turn solid green. Solid "Internet" and "DSL" LEDs indicate that the external connection is in-place and that Internet is being provided. A solid "Ethernet" LED indicates the internal network --- between the modem and router, or computer --- is functioning correctly.

Tips & Warnings

  • If an LED turns red, it indicates a problem with that particular function. A red "Internet" light means there's no Internet service, for example. If the "Ethernet" light isn't green, check for disconnected network cables. LED color schemes vary, but typically cool colors like green or blue indicate good, while orange, yellow or red indicate problems.

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References

  • AT&T;: U-verse High Speed Internet Modem 2210 User Guide

About the Author

Patrick Nelson has been a professional writer since 1992. He was editor and publisher of the music industry trade publication "Producer Report" and has written for a number of technology blogs. Nelson studied design at Hornsey Art School.

Photo Credits

  • Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images