Modem Reference Guide

Modified on Wed, 4 Jan, 2023 at 3:16 PM


An Xfinity Modem


Modems are one of the three core devices that power CadetNet (combined with Switches and Access Points).  Generally, there is a single modem for each living area (i.e. squadron).


The modem's job is to communicate between the CadetNet WiFi network and the Comcast internet connection, translating traffic back and forth.  If the modem is down, the entire living area will not have any internet.


Each modem has at least three cables connected to it: a coaxial cable, an ethernet cable, and a power cable (some installations may include multiple ethernet cables, but there will always only be one coaxial and one power cable).  The ethernet cables should be plugged into the top-most ports on the modem (left vs. right does not matter), and there is only a single coaxial and power port.


For more information about each type of cable, see the Coaxial Cable and Ethernet Cable reference guides.


There is a single light on the top of the modem which indicates its status according to the following guide:


  • SOLID WHITE: Normal internet connected and working
  • FLASHING WHITE: Busy - internet connected and working - performing updates or background task
  • FLASHING YELLOW: Loading - internet disconnected but modem working - if the modem remains in this state more than 5 minutes, the coaxial cable is likely disconnected
  • SOLID YELLOW: Error - if no change after 5 minutes, attempt to power cycle the modem, if no change then submit a support ticket
  • FLASHING GREEN: Activating - the modem is connected to the internet but not activated - please submit a support ticket to resolve this
  • SOLID GREEN: Recently activated - the modem was recently activated and should begin functioning within 5 minutes
  • RED: System Failure - attempt to power cycle the modem, if no change then submit a support ticket










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