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Fix an Ethernet cable that will not connect

We'll check the cable, ports, and device—so the Ethernet cable connects or we tell you when to call support.

Troubleshooting · Wi‑Fi & networking
5–15 min
What you'll need
  • Ethernet cable
  • Router and device
Step 1 of 5

Quick triage — pick your path

Quick triage — pick your path

Choose the option that matches what you see. You can jump straight to that section.

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Steps

Goal: Check the cable, ports, and device so the Ethernet cable connects.

  • Confirm the cable is firmly seated in both ports. Verify you should see the link light.
  • Try a different Ethernet port on the router and device.
  • Try a different cable to rule out a bad cable.
  • Good: The Ethernet cable connects and the link light is on. Bad: The cable still will not connect—call support.

Cable check

Goal: Confirm the cable is fine.

  • Inspect for damage—kinks, cuts, bent pins. Try a known-good cable.
  • Good: Cable is fine. Bad: Cable damaged—replace it.

Port check

Goal: Confirm the ports work.

  • Try different ports on the router and device. One port may be faulty.
  • Good: A port works. Bad: No port works—call support.

When to get help

Call the manufacturer if:

  • The cable still will not connect after trying different ports and cables.
  • The port or device may be faulty.

Verification

  • The link light is on at both ends.
  • The device has network access.
  • No intermittent disconnects.

Escalation ladder

Work from the device outward. Stop when the problem is fixed.

  1. Check cable seating Confirm cable firmly seated in both ports.
  2. Try different ports Try different ports on router and device.
  3. Try different cable Use a known-good cable to rule out cable fault.
  4. Restart Power-cycle router and device.
  5. Call support Manufacturer support if all steps fail.

What to capture if you need help

Before calling support or posting for help, have these ready. It speeds everything up.

  • Cable type and length
  • Ports used
  • Steps already tried

Is the cable firmly seated in both ports?

Loose cables do not connect.

Push the cable firmly into both ports. You should hear a click. Good: cable seated, link light on. Bad: no link light—check cable and ports.

Yes No

You can change your answer later.

Seat the cable firmly

Push the cable fully into both ports. Check for link light. If no link, try a different port or cable.

Done

Cable connected

The Ethernet cable is connected. The device should have network access.

Done

Try different port or cable

Try a different Ethernet port on the router and device. Or try a different cable. Good: link comes up. Bad: still no link—call support.

Done

Reviewed by Blackbox Atlas

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