router won't connect to the internet

[Prudence]

Everything is set to matching names. I've done all the reset buttons and power cycling more times than I can count. I can connect to the router just fine. The router and the pc recognize each other. This is not the issue. The router ethernet light lights up. Everything LOOKS like it should be fine, but it won't work.

I think at this point I just have to accept that I can't have a network any more. We'll have to move the modem around the condo and connect one at a time. I don't know what went wrong. Maybe Verizon changed some settings to make us buy their stuff.

[wendybeth]

Well, I don't know what to tell ya- Eric works for the cell division, but he is pretty sure that is not the case. Is there a tech support you can call? Might be worth the voicemail navigation irritation.

[Alex]

The problem is that troubleshooting network issues can be pretty difficult without seeing the specific setups and everything.

However, about this paragraph:

And why would I need a password to connect via router and not directly through the modem?

When you connect directly with the computer you should still need a password and user ID. However, it is probably already established and autoprovided by the connecting tool on your computer (this is how it was when I had Verizon DSL 18 months ago). I don't remember if that ID and password was the same as for logging in to the Web site.

I might be able to figure it out for you if I were there but trying to visualize it all in my head isn't working too well for me. And I'm on cable now, which connects differently, so I can't even use my settings to compare.

One big cautionary note to add, though. If you are connecting directly to through the modem you absolutely need to make sure you have a firewall installed on the computer itself. You may have been relying on the built in firewall from the router but the modem itself doesn't off any of that protection.

Since you're trying to set up from scratch I would suggest you go ahead and try customer support again. They may prove just as unhelpful but at least initial network setup is something they should have well scripted.

[Alex]

If you can afford a little bit of cash, it may be worth your sanity to just call Best Buy and have them send out the Geek Squad to help. I've never used them but a former coworker found them reasonably competent.

[Prudence]

Yeah, they won't support you unless you buy your equipment through them. And when I called them the other day the guy insulted me. So, that's a no go. I give up.

[Prudence]

Of course I have a firewall installed on all the PCs. I realize I am a complete moocow, but at least I know that much.

[wendybeth]

Stop insulting yourself- leave that to the tech guys.

[Prudence]

Furthermore - I can connect (as I am doing right this moment) if I treat the router as a switch-thingy only (to use the technical term). Per a google search involving Verizon and routers - if I connect the modem to the router in one of the 4 regular to-the-computer port thingies and NOT the usual from-the-modem port then it works. At least wired. Next stop: does wireless work this way.

[DisneyFan25863]

Try calling verizon tech and saying you reinstalled windows and need your user name and password. That way, they can't say its a router problem.

Also, wendybeth, try upgrading your graphics driver.

[wendybeth]

Got one on order now, DF, but ty!