Congratulations on your move! You’ve chosen the smart and speedy path to getting online: the self-installation kit. While the term might sound technical, setting up your own internet is a straightforward process that can save you time and money on a technician visit.
Consider this your step-by-step guide from the team at Cable Movers. Let’s get you from unboxing to online in under 30 minutes.
What’s in the Box? Understanding Your Kit
Before you start, familiarize yourself with the components. Your kit should contain:
- Modem/Router Combo (Gateway): This is the heart of your internet. It’s one or two devices that bring the internet into your home and broadcast the Wi-Fi signal.
- Power Adapter: The cord that brings life to your equipment.
- Coaxial Cable: A thick cable with a threaded metal pin on each end. This connects your modem to the wall outlet.
- Ethernet Cable: A thinner, often blue or yellow, cable with a wide plug. This is for a direct, wired connection.
- Quick-Start Guide & Support Information: Keep this handy!
Pro Tip: If you’re using your own equipment instead of the ISP’s rented gear, ensure it’s compatible with your provider. For a vetted list of recommended modems and routers, check out our guide at https://cablemover.net/.
Pre-Installation Checklist: Don’t Skip This!
A little prep prevents major headaches. Before you plug anything in, confirm these three things:
- ✅ Your Service is Active: Your internet provider must have activated service for your new address. You should have received a confirmation email or text with your activation date.
- ✅ You’ve Located the Coaxial Wall Outlet: Find the cable jack in your new home. It looks like a small metal port with a single hole in the center. Try to use the one in the most central location for the best Wi-Fi coverage.
- ✅ You Have Your Account Information: Keep your account number or the phone number associated with your account nearby in case you need to call support.
The 5-Step Setup Process
Follow these steps in order. Do not connect all the cables at once.
Step 1: Connect to the Wall Outlet
Screw the Coaxial Cable firmly into the Coaxial Wall Outlet. Then, connect the other end to the port on your Modem labeled “CABLE” or “COAX.” Screw it on hand-tight—no tools needed!
Step 2: Plug In the Modem
Connect the Power Adapter to your modem and then plug it into a wall outlet. Press the power button if there is one.
Step 3: Wait for the Lights (The Most Important Step)
This is a test of patience! The lights on your modem will blink and cycle as it talks to your provider’s network. This can take 5 to 20 minutes. You are waiting for the “Online,” “Internet,” or “Broadband” light to turn a solid color (usually white or green), not blinking. Do not proceed until this light is solid.
Step 4: Connect Your Devices
- For Wired Connection: Plug one end of the Ethernet Cable into your computer and the other end into a port labeled “ETHERNET” or “LAN” on your modem.
- For Wi-Fi Connection (Wireless): Once the internet light is solid, look on a sticker on your modem/router for your Network Name (SSID) and Password. On your phone, laptop, or tablet, go to Wi-Fi settings, select your network name, and enter the password.
Step 5: Activate Your Service
Sometimes activation is automatic. If you connect to the Wi-Fi but your browser is redirected to a provider’s activation page, follow the on-screen instructions. You may need to create an account or enter your customer information.
Troubleshooting Common Hurdles
- The “Online” light won’t stop blinking.
- Solution: Double-check that all coaxial connections are tight. Unplug your modem for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. If it’s still blinking after 30 minutes, the outlet may not be active, and you’ll need to call your provider.
- I can’t find the Wi-Fi network name (SSID).
- Solution: The sticker on your modem/router has all the info. If you can’t find it, try using the Ethernet cable for a direct connection to complete activation, which may make the Wi-Fi appear.
- I’m connected to Wi-Fi, but I have “No Internet.”
- Solution: This usually means the modem hasn’t fully synced or the service isn’t active yet. Restart the modem and ensure the “Online” light is solid. If the problem persists, it’s time to call customer support.
You’re All Set!
You’ve done it! By following this guide, you’ve successfully installed your own internet, saving time and taking control of your home network. Now you can enjoy all the benefits of your new home with a fast, reliable connection.
