How do I set up a cable modem?

I have a Motorola SURFboard SB5101 modem which I'm trying to set up as a backup internet connection. When I plug it into the cable and the computer, the LEDs indicate that it's connected to the internet and communicating with the computer, but I can't figure out how to get the computer to connect through the modem. Every option I try in the "Setup a new connection or network" part of Control Panel seems to be the wrong one. Can someone tell me what to do?

I'm pretty sure, based on the LEDs, that the modem connects to the internet, but I can't get Windows to acknowledge the modem and go online.

gregyurkon said:

I have a Motorola SURFboard SB5101 modem which I'm trying to set up as a backup internet connection. When I plug it into the cable and the computer, the LEDs indicate that it's connected to the internet and communicating with the computer, but I can't figure out how to get the computer to connect through the modem. Every option I try in the "Setup a new connection or network" part of Control Panel seems to be the wrong one. Can someone tell me what to do?

Most ISPs limit the models they allow to connect to their cable network. Even if you have a model that is allowed by the ISP, you still have to contact them to provision the device on their network.

Contect your ISP and have them walk you though the process, they will confirm that the settings are correct and then make the necessary changes on their side to allow the device (modem) to connect. This is the way ISPs protect their network resources - a rogue modem might wreak havoc.

Good luck.

As NavyLCDR stated above. You cannot hook up another Cable Modem and expect it to work since each modem has its own MAC Address on the bottom. You must call your ISP and give them the MAC ID of the modem so they can register it in your account database, set up the speed which you subscribe for.

If the modem given to you from your ISP, for example: Comcast, there's a monthly fee of ~$7 + tax as long as you have the service, call them up and give them the MAC ID of your SB5101 (DOCSIS2.0) so they can activate it, return the modem to them so you would not have to pay the extra fee. All brand modems will either have DOCSIS 2.0 or DOCSIS 3.0 (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) depending on what kind of speed you subscribe for.

DOCSIS 2.0 (1 Channel) – 38 Down; 27 Up (Might have IPv6 support)
DOCSIS 3.0 (1 Channel) – 38 Down; 27 Up (Must support IPv6)
DOCSIS 3.0 (4/4 Channels) – 152 Down; 108 Up (38 x 4 and 27 x 4)

Thanks for the info. (I should have responded sooner.)