In the past few weeks I have noticed that on occasion my internet surfing would suddenly stop or pages wouldn't load. When I looked over at my cable modem I noticed it shut down and then the lights would come back on and I could continue.

However, today it has consistently shut down and come back on, shut down come back on, ad nauseum. Even when I am not online and I shut off the internet connection it will still shut-off completely and then power on. I checked all cables and power attachments and they are solid. This modem is connected through my Lynksis router via network connection (as opposed to USB). The router remains fully powered as does the rest of my PC. Only my modem seems to be sputtering, stopping, and restarting.

I checked device manager and it is clean. I ran spyswepper, NOD32 anti-vi (nothing found), and I haven't loaded anything new nor have I changed any applications nor have I changed hardware. Basically my internet habits are the same. I also have a firewall.

This modem is about 4, maybe 5 years old and has never given me a problem. Can modems go like this? I have never read of anything like I am experiencing now.

It shut down twice as I wrote this.

I am at a loss so your suggestions will be welcomed. :confused:

What brand/model modem?
I suspect it is time to get the modem replaced, is the modem one supplied by your cable co?

Yes,it is supplied by my cable company. It is an RCA and to be honest it has been so long I can't even remeber the model. Looking at the installation disk the copyright date is 2002. :eek: As I said, until very recently this modem has been rock solid.

Any suggestions on good cable modems without breaking the bank?

If the modem is supplied by your cable company, they can provide you with a new one at no additional cost to you, and the connection speed may also be better than with the old one.
I currently am using Comcast, they supplied a Motorola Surfboard 5120 for my connection.
Just be certain to save the receipt when you return the old one to them in case of billing disputes later.

FYI, I also strongly recommend putting the modem and router on a UPS with the PC so they are always protected from power issues and always on in case of power failure.

Another option is to purchase your own, return the old one to your cable provider. They will register your new modem within their system and you'd also save the $5-$10.00 rental they charge you ever month. :)

Another option is to purchase your own, return the old one to your cable provider. They will register your new modem within their system and you'd also save the $5-$10.00 rental they charge you ever month. :)

HYmmm, excellent ideas from both you and PrntRhd. I'll look into the Surfboard 5120.