If you’re wondering why is Eero not connecting to new modem, then this guide will help you!
Analyzing and understanding the fault with the Eero gateway connection to the modem is crucial to troubleshooting.
The issue may be potentially caused by electrical faults, improper cabling connections, or system settings with the Eero unit or modem, so let’s start with the solutions.
To fix when Eero isn’t connecting to a new modem, check if the Ethernet cable is properly installed, power cycle both units and re-configure the settings. Also, reinstall your Eero app and factory reset the gateway.
Let’s review the issue in further detail!
Why My eero Won’t Connect to New Modem?
The eero gateway is the primary unit that establishes a direct cable connection with your network’s modem or router device.
A potential failure in the physical connection can prevent the eero device from initializing, undergoing the application setup, or discovering your network.
Let’s have a closer look at all possible causes for the issue:
This is what can impact the connection between your primary eero gateway, so let’s fix this!
eero Not Connecting to New Modem – Tested Solutions
Here’s how to solve the issue in a few easy steps:
1. Reconnect the Ethernet Cable
One of the most straightforward solutions whenever the eero gateway isn’t establishing a connection to your modem is to re-seat the Ethernet cable.
As established, only the primary eero gateway must remain physically connected to the modem, while other nodes can be paired wirelessly.
Here’s how to reconnect the Ethernet cable of the eero gateway:
- Unplug the Ethernet from the back of the eero unit.
- Disconnect the other end from the modem’s back.
- Wait for a total of 60 seconds while disconnected.
- Next, reinstall the Ethernet cable into the modem.
- Check if the coverage status lamp now activates.
Tip: Inspect the Ethernet cable for any visual faults and defects!
2. Use Alternative eero Network Port
In case the eero is still failing to establish a connection to your new modem, you should install the secondary Ethernet port on the rear of your eero.
All eero nodes and gateways have built-in two Ethernet ports, so you can maintain the wired connection in case of a failure.
So, disconnect the Ethernet from the rear panel of the eero unit and plug it into the secondary cable jack.
The Ethernet ports on the back of the eero unit are horizontally one next to another and use standard connection jacks, compatible with any Ethernet cable.
Warning: Ensure the cable has clicked in once inserted into the port of the eero unit.
3. Power Cycle the Network Equipment
You can address underlying issues with the functionality of the eero gateway or your modem by conducting a power cycle procedure.
The power cycle involves a temporal suspension of the device’s electrical income, it’s harmless and provides the software with a fresh startup.
Let’s learn how to power cycle the eero gateway first!
How to Power Cycle eero Gateway?
- Unplug the power cable from the back of the eero.
- Press the “Reset” button on the back for 1 second.
- Wait for 30–35 seconds while the unit discharges.
- Re-install the power adapter of the unit power outlet.
- Finally, wait until the eero gateway turns on and test.
How to Power Cycle Network Router/Modem?
- Optional: Press the “Power” button on your modem unit.
- Disconnect the power cable from the back of the device.
- Wait for 60 seconds while the modem is disconnected.
- Re-install the modem’s supplying cable back into power.
- Next, ensure the “Power” and the “Network” LEDs are lit.
Tip: Inspect the condition of the power adapter while the devices are power cycling!
4. Re-Install the eero Mobile App
If you’re still unable to establish a secure connection between your eero and your new modem, there could be an issue with the eero mobile app.
That’s why the next solution is to uninstall the application from your mobile device and download it freshly from the app store, to start from scratch.
How to Reinstall the eero App On Android?
- Open the “Settings” app on the Android mobile.
- Navigate to the “Applications” or “Storage” tab.
- Scroll down and locate the eero app in the menu.
- Hold the app’s icon until the actions menu shows.
- Select the “Uninstall” function to remove the app.
- Next, download the eero app through Google Play.
How to Reinstall the eero App On Apple’s iOS?
- Find the eero app on the homepage of the iOS device.
- Hold the app for 2–3 seconds until the menu appears.
- Tap on the red “Remove this app” button from the list.
- Wait until the eero application is successfully uninstalled.
- Next, open the App Store platform on your Apple phone.
- Locate and download the eero app on the device again.
After uninstalling the app, all associated devices, settings, and existing network configurations will be erased, and you will be unable to restore them.
Reminder: Also, on some Android devices, you might get prompted to install the latest version of the eero app, so make sure to select “Yes.”
5. Replace the Ethernet Jack
Another reason why the eero will not connect to modem is due to a malfunctioning Ethernet cable, mainly involving the connector and port.
To determine whether the data packets sent by the modem are unable to reach your eero due to unreliable wiring, test with an alternative cable.
Here’s how to replace the Ethernet cable utilized by the eero gateway:
- Unplug the Ethernet cable from the back of the eero unit.
- Disconnect the other end from the back of the new modem.
- Install a brand-new or proven Ethernet into the eero device.
- Plug the other end into one of the available modem ports.
- Check if the connection lamp on the eero device will blink.
How to Identify a Faulty Ethernet Cable?
You can easily tell if an Ethernet cable is faulty by analyzing the physical condition of the jacks, plastic cover, and overall integrity.
Exposed wires, torn jacks, or bent plastic covers can limit or entirely prevent the amount of data that travels through the cable, leading to offline status.
To test if an Ethernet cable is functional, you can either use an Ethernet tester or connect it to your computer or Ethernet-compatible device.
Info: Ethernet cables have a built-in light that flashes if the connection is successful.
6. Reset the Modem’s Service
You can address any faults with your new modem by reconnecting the Coaxial cable of the unit from the service outlet.
A temporal degradation or disruption in the service supply may prevent the modem from assigning your eero device to the network and providing the mesh with service.
To reset the service income of your new modem, unplug the Coaxial cable from the back of the unit and the outlet for up to 60 seconds.
Once the “Network” LED of the modem has started to flash in green or turns solid, reconnect the Coaxial cable to re-supply the service data stream.
Warning: Verify that the service cable is securely connected on both ends!
7. Factory Reset the Network Equipment
If you’re still facing issues with connecting your existing eero gateway to a brand-new modem, you should perform a factory reset on both devices.
If you haven’t re-programmed the eero unit for a new modem connection, it may face issues while attempting to communicate over Ethernet.
Let’s start with a factory reset on the eero gateway!
How to Factory Reset eero Gateway Unit?
- Verify that the eero unit is connected to a power supply.
- Press the “Reset” button next to the right Ethernet port.
- Release the button after 10–15 seconds to start the reset.
- Do not interact with the eero unit for the next 2–3 minutes.
How to Factory Reset Network Router/Modem?
- First, unplug the power cable from the back of the modem.
- Locate the reset button or reset the pinhole on the back.
- Hold the internal or peripheral Reset button of the modem.
- So, after about 15–20 seconds you can release the button.
Note: After the reset, the eero can be set up through the app and the modem through the GUI!
Quick Recap
If your Eero is not connecting to a new modem, the first step is to re-seat the Ethernet cable, use an alternative port on Eero, and power cycle the equipment.
You may also need to perform a factory reset on your devices.
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Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.