Is your Cox router or modem blinking orange, and you can’t figure out how to stop it? We’ve got you covered.
A blinking orange light on the Cox modem or router indicates that the router is struggling to establish a stable connection, usually due to problems with the ISP link or loss of signal. In some cases, the issue gets resolved on its own after a few hours. But if the problem is not going away, you’ll need to fix it yourself.
And that’s where we come in. Through this guide, we’ll help you understand the reasons behind the blinking orange light on your Cox modem or router and what you can do to fix it.
Quick Answer
If you see your Cox router or modem flashing orange light, it means that the connection is unstable. Generally, this is due to problems with ISP link or loss of signal. To try and fix this, you can check for local outages, ensure better ventilation, check the coax outlet, restart the router, and try updating the firmware. For more details, check out our guide below.
Why is there a blinking orange light on your Cox modem or Cox router?
Here are some possible reasons behind the issue –
- Outage or maintenance
- Outdated firmware
- Random bug or glitch
- Overheating or overloading
- Damaged cables
- Faulty coax outlet
How to fix the blinking orange light on Cox modem or Cox router?
Here are some methods that can help you fix the orange blinking light issue on your device.
Step
Check the Cox outage map
Cox has its very own map that lets you know if there is any internet outage or maintenance in your area that is preventing you from accessing the internet. If there is, your only option is to wait. But on the bright side, at least you’ll know there’s nothing wrong with your device.
Step
Perform a power cycle
If a random bug or glitch is causing the Cox router or modem blinking orange light issue, you need to power cycle the device. This is different from a regular restart as it requires you to keep the device turned off for a few minutes.
- Turn off your modem or router and remove its cable from the power outlet.
- Wait for around two minutes and plug the cable back in.
Power cable port at the back of Cox router - Now, wait for another two minutes before turning the modem on.
Step
Examine the cables
Ensure the cable linking the modem or router to the power outlet is intact and correctly inserted. Thoroughly inspect both ends of the cable for any twists or cuts; if there are any, replace the cable. Also, just to make sure there isn’t anything wrong with the wiring of the power outlet you’re using, try connecting the device to an alternate outlet as a precaution.
Step
Install the latest updates
Firmware updates bring new features, improve the device’s performance, and eliminate issues that people may be facing. If your Cox modem is blinking orange, it may be due to outdated software. So, visit the official website of Cox and download the latest firmware update form there.
Make sure not to turn off the device or unplug it during the update process, as the files can get corrupted and cause more issues.
Step
Check if wired connections are working
Plug your device directly into the router or modem using an Ethernet cable. If the internet works fine this way but not wirelessly, there might be an issue with the wireless function. If updates and restarting haven’t helped, there might be a problem with the antenna. It’s best to get help from Cox’s experts in this case.
Step
Use a different coax outlet
Your device connects through a coax outlet on the wall, and the blinking orange light on the Cox modem or router might indicate a loose or faulty connection. To verify, remove the wall plate where the coax connects and inspect it. Secure the connection properly, reconnect the device, and check if the orange light disappears. If not, try plugging the cable into a different coax outlet to determine if the previous one was causing the issue.
Step
Check for overheating and overloading
Place your hand on the top of the Cox modem or router and check if it’s overheating. If it is, move it to a different spot. Also, keep it turned off for around 30 minutes to let it cool down.
On the other hand, if you connect more devices to the modem than it can handle, overloading will occur. In this case, you need to disconnect unnecessary devices from it immediately.
Step
Perform a hard reset
Your last resort is to perform a hard reset, also referred to as a factory reset, on your Cox modem or router. This process restores the device to its original settings, akin to when you first bought it. Remember, after the reset, you’ll have to reconfigure the device, as your custom settings will be lost.
To initiate the reset:
- Find WPS button on the back of the router.
- Press and hold it for around 60 seconds.
WPS button at the back of Cox router - For some models, the WPS button needs to be only pressed 10 seconds.
Once completed, the device will reset, and the blinking orange light on the Cox modem or router should no longer be present.
Step
Contact Cox support for further assistance
If nothing has helped fix the Cox modem blinking orange light issue, it means there’s something wrong with the hardware. In such a case, it’s best if you let experts handle the device. For this, contact Cox support and let them know about the issue. You’ll have to send the unit to them if they’re unable to help you over a call or email.
What color should the light be on the Cox router?
If everything is working fine, you will see a solid white light on your Cox router. But if you see a blinking orange light, it means there’s a problem with your connection.
Conclusion
The Cox modem blinking orange light issue is pretty frustrating as it prevents you from accessing the internet. But if the light appears for you, don’t panic. Instead, perform a power cycle as this will fix the issue if it is being caused due to a bug or glitch. However, if nothing works, seek help from Cox support. In case you are planning to ditch your old device and upgrade to a new one, check out our top picks for the best modem for Cox and the best router for Cox.
