Self-service
Guides & Checklists
Original, practical resources you can use right now, no phone call needed.
Checklist
Restart your equipment in the right order
Tick each step as you go. Your progress is remembered on this device only.
Checklist
Before you call anyone
Having these ready makes any support call faster.
Quick reference
Equipment light cheat sheet
Exact meanings vary by manufacturer. Always check your own manual.
| What you see | Commonly means | First thing to try |
|---|---|---|
| No lights at all | No power | Check the outlet, power strip and adapter. |
| Power on, internet light off or red/orange | No incoming connection | Check cables, restart in order, then contact your provider if it persists. |
| Internet light on, Wi-Fi light off | Wi-Fi disabled or failed | Check the Wi-Fi button or app, then restart. |
| Lights blinking continuously | Syncing or negotiating | Wait 5 minutes. If it never settles, check cables and restart. |
FAQ
Common questions
What is the difference between a modem and a router?
The modem connects to your service line. The router creates your home network and shares that connection. Some devices combine both.
Why is Wi-Fi slow upstairs?
Distance, floors and walls weaken the signal. Move the router to a central, higher location or add a wired access point or mesh node.
Should I buy my own equipment?
Owning compatible equipment can avoid rental fees, but check compatibility with your provider and weigh the upfront cost.
Is a faster plan the fix for slow Wi-Fi?
Not always. If wired tests reach your plan speed, the bottleneck is usually your Wi-Fi setup, not the plan.
Can TKBNet fix my outage or change my account?
We can troubleshoot your own equipment, but we cannot access provider systems. Outages, billing and account changes go through your provider. See Disclosures.
How do I protect my home network?
Use WPA2 or WPA3, change the default admin password, keep router firmware updated, and use a unique Wi-Fi password.
What is a mesh system?
A set of devices that work together to blanket a home in Wi-Fi, replacing a single router and extenders.
What is a good ping or latency?
Under about 50 ms is comfortable for calls and gaming on most connections; lower is better for competitive play.
Prefer to talk it through?
Call Monday–Friday, 9am–6pm Eastern. Please know before you call: you are reaching an independent assistance service, and we will explain any fees before they apply.
Call (833) 581-4309