How to self-install RCN internet

When you first purchase RCN, you elect to either self-install or have a technician visit your home. If you choose the former, the equipment will be sent to your home, or you can pick it up at a local payment center.

1. Check the equipment

When you receive your RCN equipment, you should double-check it—just as you would when receiving your food at the Arby’s drive-through window. Make sure the RCN package contains all the requested items, including a modem, a router (or modem and router Wi-Fi gateway), a self-installation guide, and all the necessary cords and adapters. Also, find the packing slip and never let it go—you’ll need it while activating your account for the first time.

2. Find the sweet spot

Before you pull everything out of the box, figure out where you want to plug in the modem. You should look for a centralized location; it will help transmit the Wi-Fi signal throughout the home.

3. Connect the power cord

Connect the power cord to the modem and plug the power cord into a wall socket.

4. Turn off the computer

Turn off the computer or laptop you’ll be using to set up the internet. This is simply a precaution to avoid complications with the initial installation and account activation.

5. Connect the Ethernet cable

With the computer still off, plug the Ethernet cable into the modem’s Ethernet port. The port will either be labeled “Ethernet” or color-coded to match the cable. Now connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to the computer’s Ethernet port.

6. Turn on the computer

Turn on the computer to initiate the modem’s search for the RCN network. Be patient as the search can take a few minutes.

7. Wait for the lights

Before attempting to activate your RCN account, you should wait for the lights to turn a steady color. This will prevent hiccups in the activation process later on.

How to activate your RCN account

If the lights on the modem or router turn on, you can now activate RCN internet service. Follow these steps to successfully activate your account.

1. Open your favorite web browser. The browser will automatically redirect you to the RCN setup page.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions and prompts. Most of the information you’ll need to enter can be found on the RCN packing slip.
3. Save your changes. If you make any changes to the network name or password, save them before closing out of the browser.
4. Reboot the modem. To reboot it, turn off the computer and unplug the modem’s power supply. Next, reconnect the power cord and turn on the computer.
5. Open a browser to confirm the internet works as promised and expected.

How to change your modem’s settings

The RCN-supplied modem or router is typically a Linksys model, so RCN has provided its own instructions for updating the router’s settings. If you use your own modem, you will want to find its instruction manual. While the steps usually follow a similar pattern, the starting point often differs. Some modems use a web interface while others, like the Linksys, recommend using the Cisco Connect software to simplify setup and management.

1. Install the Cisco Connect software provided with your RCN modem or router.
2. Open Cisco Connect.
3. Click “change” underneath Router Settings.
4. Next, click “change” in the Personalize section.
5. A warning appears on the screen. Accept it to continue onward.
6. Enter the new router name (SSID) and password.
7. Click “change” to save the new settings.
8. Update devices with the new router name and password.

In some instances, you will want to use the browser interface. It houses a couple of advanced features not available in Cisco Connect. You also can use the interface to make simple changes, but the Linksys manual warns that using it might interfere with running Cisco Connect later on. To use the web interface, follow these seven steps.

1. Open a web browser.
2. Input 192.168.1.1.
3. If the numerical address doesn’t go anywhere, try myrouter.local.
4. You will be asked to enter a username and password. If you didn’t change these when first using Cisco Connect, the username and password are “admin.”
5. The main menu opens. Once here, you can change the username, password, and other settings, including guest networks and security protocols.
6. Save any changes you make and close out the browser.
7. If you change the username and password, update your wireless devices with the new information.

How to solve common self-installation challenges

Self-installing internet service can fell even the mightiest of technophiles. Fortunately, help is available with this short list of common issues and solutions. If these solutions fail to solve your problem, contact RCN Customer Support at 1-800-746-4726 or use the online chat. The ISP is relatively good about answering customer questions on social media, too.

Problem: The modem’s indicator lights never turned on.

1. You likely have a loose cable or power issue.
2. Check the wall outlet. It could be one with an “on/off” switch. If it is, confirm the switch is “on.” If the power still doesn’t kick in, try plugging the cord into a different electrical socket.
3. Check the Ethernet cable. It could have jiggled loose during setup or during a cat’s jaunt behind the desk or shelf.

Problem: The internet is sluggish.

1. You should first run a speed test. You’ll want to hardwire the internet connection in for this step because RCN’s demonstrated speeds are based on wired connections, not wireless.
2. If you pass the speed test, the issue could be the modem’s location or the number of devices connected to the network.
3. Try moving the modem or router to a more centralized location, such as one where the majority of your devices live.
4. Hardwire a couple of your devices to reduce the load on the Wi-Fi. Some options include a DVR or gaming system, which typically run better when plugged into a dedicated Ethernet port anyway. And as they perform better, so will your other devices.

Problem: My streaming videos are choppy.

1. Your problem could be the equipment or bandwidth.
2. Check your computers and devices to see if they can handle the internet speeds provided by RCN.
3. Check the modem or router. If it isn’t using DOCSIS 3.0 or higher, you will experience latency and other performance issues.
4. If you own the latest equipment, the issue likely is bandwidth related. You should find the device that’s hogging the internet and hardwire it in. This should deliver a clear, smooth stream.

Problem: I can’t connect to the internet.

1. Your best bet is to power-cycle the modem or router. Rebooting it flushes out the system and resets connection settings.
2. If the reboot doesn’t work, contact Customer Support.

Choosing the best RCN-compatible modem

If you want to save money on rental fees, you will want to “bring your own modem.” The challenge, however, arises in selecting one that’s compatible. RCN’s 1 Gigabit internet requires the use of its DOCSIS 3.1 modem alone. RCN’s other internet packages demonstrate more leeway. They only demand that the modem or router be DOCSIS 3.0 certified and feature at least twenty-four downstream channels and eight upstream channels.

How to set up an appointment with a RCN

Setting up an installation appointment with RCN is easy, thanks to its 24/7 customer service. To reach the department, call 1-800-746-4726. Questions specific to your installation should be directed to 1-866-832-4726.

Step by step guide to Suddenlink self-installation

When you place your initial order with Suddenlink Communications, you can choose to either have a technician come to your home to set up the equipment or to install it yourself. If you choose to install it yourself, follow the directions below.

1. Note your activation date

Even if your box of Suddenlink equipment arrives twenty-four hours after placing an order, you should wait until your activation date to connect the equipment. You won’t be able to test the service or set up your account before your activation date.

2. Check the Suddenlink equipment

Your box of Suddenlink equipment should contain six items: cable modem, power adapter, coaxial cable, Ethernet cable, two-way cable splitter, and instructions. If anything’s missing from your box, contact Suddenlink Customer Support at 1-877-794-2724.

3. Choose a location

Scout your home for a centralized location with access to both cable and power outlets. Finding a good spot will help transmit the internet signal throughout your home.

4. Turn off the computer

Whether you’re using a desktop or laptop, power it down before continuing. Doing this can help prevent signal confusion and interference during the installation and activation phases.

5. Connect the modem

Connect the coaxial cable to the cable wall outlet and the port labeled “Cable In” on the back of the modem. Plug the power cord into a wall outlet and connect it to the modem.

6. Plug in the Ethernet cable

With the modem connected to the cable line and receiving power, plug in the Ethernet cable and connect it to either your computer or router.

7. Look for the LED light

If all the connections are secure and working properly, the “Online” LED light on the front of the modem will turn a solid color.

8. Turn on the computer

Once you turn on the computer, you will need to run through either the Internet Connection Wizard (Windows) or System Preferences (Mac OS).

9a. Run the internet connection wizard (Windows only)

1. Click the “Start” button. It’s usually in the lower left-hand area of the screen.
2. Click “Run.”
3. When the window opens, type “INETWIZ” and click “OK.”
4. The Internet Connection Wizard will open. When it does, select “Connect using my local area network (LAN)” and click “Next.”
5. On the next screen, uncheck any checked boxes before clicking “Next.”
6. The following screen asks if you would like to set up your email. You can skip this step if you plan to set up your email through the Suddenlink web portal or another email client such as Outlook or Mail. Click “Next” to continue forward.
7. Click “Finish” to save your settings and to close out the wizard.

9b. Set your system preferences (Mac OS only)

1. Click the Apple icon (upper left-hand corner) and navigate to “System Preferences.”
2. Select the “Network” icon.
3. When it opens, click on “Advanced.”
4. A new pane opens. When it does, click on “TCP/IP.”
5. Look at the “Configure” dropdown and choose “Using DHCP.” Click “OK.”
6. You will return to the basic “Networks” pane. If “Apply” lights up, click it to save your settings.
7. Close “System Preferences.”

Once you complete the steps above, you are ready to activate your account.

How to activate your Suddenlink account

With the LED light on the modem turned on and the computer powered up, you can now activate your Suddenlink account. The setup shouldn’t take more than thirty minutes.

1. Open your web browser.
2. This will automatically direct you to the Suddenlink welcome page, which will prompt you for your sixteen-digit account number.
3. Enter your account number and click “Continue.”
4. Confirm your other contact information. If correct, click “Yes.”
5. Suddenlink will run a test on your cable lines to assess signal strength.
6. Once it finishes, a “Terms of Service” page appears. Click “Agree” to continue.
7. The next screen shows a transaction number. Save it for your records.
8. Wait five minutes, then restart the computer, the modem, and the router. You may hear this process referred to as “powercycling.” Its purpose is to make sure the internet connection is steady and to clean up any rogue signals.

How to change your Suddenlink modem’s settings

Suddenlink makes it easy to update your modem’s settings. To change them, log in to the modem.

1. Open a web browser.
2. Type 192.168.0.1 in the address bar. Hit “Enter.”
3. A login screen will appear. If accessing the modem for the first time, use your default login information.
   1. Username: cusadmin
   2. Password: password
4. Click “Apply” to enter the modem’s interface.
5. The home screen summarizes a number of settings. Look at them carefully to ensure they’re correct.
   1. Your SSID is “suddenlink.net-xxxx,” with the four x’s being the last four digits of the RF Cable Mac address (found on modem’s label).
   2. The channel should be set to “Auto.”
   3. The security mode should be WPA/WPA2-PSK.
   4. The encryption algorithm should show TKIP/AES.
   5. The pre-shared key generates automatically. You can also find the information below the SSID name on the modem’s label.
6. Click on “Change Password.”
   1. Enter your old password.
   2. Enter your new password twice, once to set it and once to confirm it.
   3. Click “Set” to store your settings.
7. Confirm any changed settings and close out the browser.

How to solve common self-installation issues

Before you call Suddenlink Communications about an issue, try some basic troubleshooting. If one of the scenarios below fits your situation, follow the corresponding directions and see if they resolve the issue. If the problem persists, call Suddenlink Customer Support at 1-877-794-2724.

Problem: The “online” LED light never turned on.

1. A power cord could be loose.
2. If the cord seems secure, try a different outlet.
3. Check the coaxial cable—the connector can sometimes get bent.
4. If the cable is bent, replace it with a new one.
5. If none of those steps work, contact Suddenlink Customer Support.

Problem: The internet speed is really slow.

1. Assess the number of wireless devices accessing the internet. They could be dragging down your speed. You can solve this problem by hardwiring certain devices, such as a DVR or TV.
2. Run a speed test from a hardwired computer. The hardwiring is essential; Suddenlink bases its download and upload speeds on wired equipment.
3. Check the age of your devices—it could be time for an upgrade. An older modem, computer, or laptop sometimes runs at slower speeds. Suddenlink recommends using a DOCSIS 3.0 modem for speeds of 20 Mbps or higher.
4. Consider traffic congestion. Speeds will slow depending on the time of day or number of people in your home.
5. If none of those options solve the problem, it could indicate a network problem or the need for more speed. Contact Customer Support to troubleshoot your account and to discuss options.

Problem: The internet connection seems choppy.

1. Signal interference is likely to blame.
2. Reboot the modem and computer. The reboot shuffles the devices through their settings and clears out the gunk signals.
3. If the reboot doesn’t fulfill your expectations, check the cable and see if internet and TV share the cable connection.
4. If they do, you should install the two-way cable splitter provided by Suddenlink. The cable splitter separates the frequencies in order to avoid mixed signals.

Self-installation vs. professional installation

While you can let the Suddenlink professionals install the modem and set up your internet service, it’s not too much work to do it yourself. However, deciding between the two options involves a few considerations.

It might be time for a new modem…here are our top picks

Suddenlink provides the ARRIS/Motorola model, which is a powerful modem. However, you shouldn’t feel obligated to use it. You can use a different modem as long as it meets Suddenlink’s compatibility requirements. The two modems below are not only compatible with the ISP, but also crowd-pleasers on Amazon.

How to contact Suddenlink Communications

Suddenlink Communications offers multiple avenues to get in touch with its support team. You can participate in an online chat, email, visit a local office, or call 1-877-794-2724 to speak with an agent. You also can use its online tool to track your technician’s status and estimated time of arrival.

How to self-install Windstream internet

Installing your Windstream internet is nothing like building IKEA furniture—the process won’t take hours, nor will it leave you with a bruised thumb and sore calf muscles. Windstream estimates that a self-installation should take between thirty minutes and an hour.

1. Wait for your activation date

Even if your modem and equipment arrive in the mail prior to the activation date, wait to install everything until that day. Your service won’t be available until the specified date, making it impossible to check connections and connectivity until then.

2. Check the equipment

While you wait for your activation date, check the equipment you’ve received. You should have received a Windstream wireless modem, cables, power cords, DSL filters, and instructions.

3. Choose a location

On your activation date, choose a spot to set up the modem. You’ll want a centralized location, free from obstructions. The open, central space will help “spread” wireless coverage throughout the home.

4. Connect the DSL filter

If you don’t have home phone service, skip this step. Using the DSL filter will prevent signal interference, an issue that commonly occurs when installing DSL internet in a home with home phone service. If you do have home phone service, plug the filter (sometimes called a splitter) into the phone jack. Next, connect the gray phone line to the DSL port on the filter. Finish the work in this step by connecting the home phone cord to the other port on the filter.

5. Connect the phone line

Windstream includes a gray phone cord in the box of equipment. Once your activation date has arrived, connect the cord to the labeled DSL port on the modem.

6. Power up the modem

Next, connect the power adapter to the modem. When that’s done, connect the adapter to an electrical outlet.

7. Connect the Ethernet cable

While you can use your Windstream internet to create a wireless network, this initial hardwired setup will ensure a reliable connection during your account activation. To get started, plug the yellow Ethernet cable into the modem’s Ethernet port. Then connect the other end of the cable to your computer.

8. Watch the lights

The DSL and internet lights will flash green. Wait one to two minutes for them to turn a solid green before continuing in the setup process. Note that the internet light will flash intermittently while you’re using the internet.

If both lights turn a solid green, you can move on to activating your account. If the lights still flash after three minutes or so, revisit the directions and make sure you followed them exactly. You can also check the connections; cables sometimes wiggle loose. If none of those steps correct the problem, call technical support at 1-800-347-1991.

How to activate your Windstream internet service

Once all of the lights turn a solid green, you can begin activating your Windstream account. These final steps should take you about fifteen minutes to complete.

1. Open your internet browser

When you open your internet browser, the window will automatically redirect you to the Windstream Internet Service Setup page.

2. Accept the Terms of Service

The initial screen will ask you to accept Windstream’s terms and conditions. You must accept them to continue onward with the installation process.

3. Enter your information

The next page will ask for your account information. You should have received this information in a mailed letter or other form of communication.

4. Finish setting up your Windstream account

If you’re planning to connect wirelessly, enter your wireless information, which is the SSID and key. You can find that information either in your service agreement or on the bottom of the modem provided by Windstream.

5. Finalize your setup

Once you complete the first four steps, finish by clicking the button to finalize your setup. It saves the data entered and enables internet access.

6. Connect your wireless devices

Wireless devices, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop, will still need to be connected to the wireless network. Use the default SSID and key provided with the modem, unless you changed them during the setup phase. You’re finished! To test your work, close the browser, reopen it, and connect to one of your favorite websites.

How to upgrade your modem’s settings

Your modem comes with default login settings, which should be changed to protect your home network’s privacy and security. The steps are slightly different depending on the modem in use, but the process will generally follow a similar pathway.

1. Open a browser

The first step is the easiest: simply open your favorite web browser from home. Being home is necessary; Windstream explicitly states you can’t update your wireless network and key remotely.

2. Access the modem’s settings panel

Things can get tricky with this step, particularly if you’re using a preferred modem rather than the one provided by Windstream. With a Windstream modem, you type in http://192.168.254.254/wlcfg.html to change the name of your network, or SSID. To change the default password, or key, head to http://192.168.254.254/wlsecurity.html. Other modems use different addresses, but they usually always contain http:// and a series of numbers.

3. Update your wireless network name

With the network settings panel open, scroll down to “Wireless – Guest/Virtual Access Points.” Select the default SSID name by checking “enabled,” and type in a new name in lieu of the default one. Click “Apply/Save” to finalize the new settings.

4. Change your wireless network password

Next, visit http://192.168.254.254/wlsecurity.html to change your password. Scroll down to the section “Manual Setup AP” and select your SSID from the drop-down menu. Enter your preferred password in the “WPA/WAPI Passphrase” box. You can click “Click here to display” so that you can see the letters, numbers, and symbols being inputted. Finally, click “Apply/Save” to store your settings.

5. Reconnect your wireless devices

If you initially connected your wireless devices to the internet via the default SSID and key, you will need to update their settings in order to access the internet again.

How to resolve common self-installation challenges

The self-installation process sometimes proves challenging, but you can usually resolve the issues yourself. If you can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong, Windstream is standing by to help. The company offers a plethora of support options, from its virtual assistant “Wendy” to remote-desktop troubleshooting. You can also take the easiest route by calling tech support directly at 1-800-347-1991.

Problem: I can’t connect to the internet.

1. Before you call tech support, try rebooting the modem. The problem could be that the modem experienced some interference and is a little confused. Rebooting it will purge the modem of bad connections and interference sources.

Problem: The internet goes in and out.

1. You could have interference on the line—the likely culprit is a missing or rogue DSL filter.
2. If you have home phone service, you’ll want to use DSL filters. They sort out signals, preventing interference and dropped calls.
3. If you don’t have home phone service, but installed a DSL filter, uninstall it. An unnecessary DSL filter sometimes causes signal interference.

Problem: The indicator lights never came on.

1. The problem could be loose cords or a dead outlet. Check all the cords and cables and make sure they’re securely connected to the modem, wall, and computer. Also double-check that the cords and cables connect to the appropriate ports and wall connections.
2. If the cables and cords are secure, try using a different phone jack or power outlet before calling Windstream.

Problem: I don’t know what’s wrong.

1. No problem! With Windstream, you have access to 24/7 tech support. Give the support team a call at 1-800-347-1991.
2. If you can connect to the internet, consider visiting the support center. You can take part in an online chat, ask Wendy for help, or avail yourself of remote-desktop assistance.

When to self-installation or work with a pro

When it comes to internet service, you can either work with a pro or go at it alone. Both options work, but each offer different advantages and disadvantages.

How to purchase the best Windstream modem

If you elect to self-install Windstream internet, the company will send you one of their modems. However, you don’t have to stick with what Windstream sends. You can use other modems, too, as long as they’re compatible with Windstream’s DSL service. Below are our top two picks for Windstream compatible modems.

How to set up an appointment with a Windstream home technician

If you opt for professional installation when signing up for Windstream, an appointment is automatically scheduled on the date of your activation. If, however, you originally choose to self-install and then change your mind later on, you can call Windstream customer service at 1-866-445-5880 to set up an in-home visit.