Forum Discussion

gchtvc15's avatar
gchtvc15
New Contributor
5 years ago

Steps to Connect Computer Directly to Cable Modem

Looking to connect my computer via CAT6 directly to my cable modem. Do I need to manually set an IP address on my computer to get them to connect? If so, what IP address doing I need to use?

  • CTCoxCustomer's avatar
    CTCoxCustomer
    New Contributor III

    You shouldn't have to. The modem will give you an IP address automatically through DHCP.

    • gchtvc15's avatar
      gchtvc15
      New Contributor

      My router handles dhcp, not the cable modem...From Netgear...By default, the router acts as a DHCP server. The router assigns IP, DNS server, and default gateway addresses to all computers connected to the LAN.

      Are you saying when the router isn't connected the Netgear cable modem will provide dhcp services?

  • Bruce's avatar
    Bruce
    Honored Contributor III

    The modem operates at Layer-2 of the networking protocols, aka the MAC Layer.  Your public IP address will be what Cox assigns to your modem.  When your modem receives data addressed to it, it'll pass it via MAC address.  No IP addresses involved.

    • gchtvc15's avatar
      gchtvc15
      New Contributor

      Thanks Bruce! When I connect my laptop directly to the cable modem I do not get internet connectivity according to my laptop.

      • Bruce's avatar
        Bruce
        Honored Contributor III

        You may need to just unplug/replug the modem to clear its MAC table.  It probably thinks it's still communicating with your router.

        Also, ensure your LAN (wired) NIC is enabled on your laptop.  This task should be under your Network & Internet properties.