How To Reboot Centurylink Modem?

Posted on: 30 Aug 2024
How To Reboot Centurylink Modem?

Resetting the modem that has been provided to you by CenturyLink can resolve many issues that are related to connectivity and internet speed. When you reboot the modem it removes some of the bugs in the system hence providing a fresh start. This process only takes several minutes. Here is a detailed guide on how to reboot your CenturyLink modem so that you can achieve the best results.

Why You Should Reboot Your Modem There are a few reasons why rebooting your CenturyLink modem can help with problems you may be experiencing.

  • Erases transient issues - rebooting helps to erase any transitory issues that may be spelling troubles for the modem either in its software or connectivity. This has the advantage of resetting the modem.
  • IP address refresh – The modem will be assigned a new IP address from the network provided by CenturyLink after it restarts. This can help clear problems that arise from having wrong information in the IP address list.
  • DNS flush – The modem’s DNS cache is cleared before it is restarted. This will cause the modem to refresh and connect to CenturyLink’s DNS which may enhance internet browsing.
  • Boosts connectivity – Modem connectivity can deteriorate over time. Disconnecting and reconnecting rejuvenates all the connections and this makes the connection faster and more reliable.

If you are experiencing any problem with your internet connection, whether slow speeds, constant disconnection, or inability to access specific sites, the first step towards fixing the problem should be re-starting the modem.

When should I reboot my modem? Some common situations when you want to reboot your CenturyLink modem include.

  • You changed your CenturyLink internet plan speed - Restarting the modem enables it to provision and get connected with the new high speed.
  • You are connecting the modem for the first time – After plugging the cables and switching it on, start it again to improve the connection.
  • I can’t even remember the last time it was rebooted – It is recommended to reboot your modem at least once a month to get rid of any bugs.
  • The Internet connection seems slow or is behaving strangely – A sluggish or strange Internet connection is another sign that rebooting might help.
  • You have to restart your modem – This is helpful in instances where the modem ceases to function or does not respond at all.

Restarting your modem only takes about five minutes but can save you hours of problems with your Internet connection. Start practicing the habit of rebooting your devices often.

Find Your CenturyLink Modernist. Start by following the ethernet connection linking your PC to the CenturyLink modem if you cannot locate your modem. Follow the cable to the modem box, which should be kept near a power source on a desk or shelf.

Common CenturyLink modem models include.

  • ZyXEL C1100Z
  • Actiontec C1000A
  • Greenwave C4000BG
  • Technicolor C2100T
  • ZyXEL C3000Z

Your model may vary. When identified, go ahead and reboot the modem through the following steps.

How To Reset Your CenturyLink Modem – A Step-by-Step Guide Follow these simple steps to safely reboot your CenturyLink modem.

  • It is advisable to back up your work on all the devices that are connected to the internet before starting. Restarting means that you will be disconnected from the internet for some time.
  • Check the back or side of the CenturyLink modem for the power button or switch.
  • First, disconnect any backup battery if there is one.
  • Switch off the modem by turning its power button and holding it for 10 full seconds.
  • Wait until all the modem lights go off. Let go of the power button.
  • Wait for 30 seconds as the modem restarts. It is crucial not to power back on yet.
  • Check whether the AC power cord got disconnected from the modem and plug it into the power port if it was disconnected.
  • Finally, briefly press the power button again to boot up your CenturyLink modem.
  • After rebooting wait 2 minutes for all the lights on the modem to stop blinking. When the icons turn solid, it means that it is ready.
  • If necessary, reconnect the backup battery to the Circuit Board Assembly. The modem reboot is now complete!
  • If a computer is no longer connected to the internet, try to reset that specific computer to join the network again.
  • Check your internet connection by starting an internet browser and loading any web page.

All should now function as expected. After rebooting, all the glitches have been rectified.

What we should expect during the modem reboot process As you reboot your CenturyLink modem, here is the sequence of events to expect.

  • All status lights off - When the power button is pressed for ten seconds, all the lights will go off showing that the modem has shut down completely.
  • Lack of internet connection – All wired and wireless devices connected to the router will be unable to access the internet for roughly 1-2 minutes as the device reboots. This is normal.
  • Power light goes first and off – When power is reintroduced into the circuit, the first indicator to come on is the power light. The others will still be cycling.
  • Lights cycle and settle – downstream, upstream, and internet lights will blink in random patterns as the modem re-establishes its connection.
  • Internet connectivity – Once all lights stop blinking and become steady, internet connectivity will be back.

The whole process takes just 1-2 minutes. Again, it should not be more than five minutes, anything more could be a sign that there is an issue.

Troubleshooting Tips Here are some tips if you have any trouble getting your CenturyLink modem to reboot properly.

  • If the power button does not turn on, unplug the power cord and plug it back.
  • Sometimes the reboot process might take as long as 5 minutes to complete fully.
  • If the lights are blinking continuously, power cycle the modem one more time.
  • Verify all cables are connected properly to minimize the chances of them coming off during a race.
  • Perhaps, relocating the modem near the source jack could help enhance the signal quality.
  • If you are continuously experiencing issues, you should get in touch with CenturyLink support.

Resetting Your Home Network After Reboot Turning off and on the modem is NOT sufficient to reset your WiFi router or the mesh network if you have one. After successfully rebooting just the CenturyLink modem.

  • Plug any devices that were disconnected by the act of pulling/plugging their ethernet cables back into their respective ports.
  • If you also wish to reset your home wireless network, power cycle your WiFi routers.
  • Forcefully shut down computers and smartphones that depend on WiFi to effectively re-establish their connection.

This will ensure that all devices cleanly reconnect at maximum throughput.

Try to get in the habit of resetting your CenturyLink modem at least once monthly or any time you feel the connection is slow. This usually resolves internet problems resulting from momentary hitches, as highlighted above. Find the power button, press it, and hold for about 10 seconds until all lights are out, then wait for some time, and turn it on again. It is recommended to go through the steps highlighted in this article and maintain the proper Internet connection.


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