Why does Cox internet keep disconnecting? This article explores some of the common reasons why you are experiencing Cox internet drops, and importantly, how you can solve the problem.
Cox is one of the most preferred internet providers because of the blazing fast speeds. But just like all other ISPs, Cox’s internet connection might keep disconnecting from time to time.
There are many reasons why Cox's internet drops frequently. It could be router bugs, faulty router, outdated firmware, bad cables or connectors, wireless interference, weak WiFi signal, or overheating.
If you are struggling with Cox internet disconnecting and reconnecting frequently, you are at the right place.
Why Does Cox Internet Keep Disconnecting and Reconnecting?
So why does my Cox internet keep disconnecting and reconnecting randomly?
When your Cox internet keeps dropping, the problem can be a minor one that you can solve yourself or a major one that may require the intervention of Cox technicians.
Below are some of the troubleshooting tips to explore if you are experiencing constant internet disconnections and reconnections.
Note: Before exploring these tips, first, ascertain whether the internet connection drops on just one device or all devices.
If the problem is on only one device, then that device is the problem – your Cox internet connection is just working fine.
1. Restart Router and Modem
Networking equipment such as routers and cable modems may freeze or have software bugs.
In this case, they will not function properly. A common problem you will experience is the internet dropping from time to time and then reconnecting. A possible fix will be restarting the modem and router if you have one.
Below is a guide on how to restart your router and modem.
Step 1: Unplug the power cables on the modem and router.
Step 2: Wait for a few seconds before plugging the power cords back.
Step 3: Wait for the modem and router to reinitialize.
Step 4: Connect and check whether the internet connection is now stable.
2. Is the Modem or Router Overheating?
Your cable modem or router is probably running 24/7, so just like other electrical devices, they could overheat.
When they overheat, they will surely go off and drop connection for a few minutes or even longer until they cool down.
You can feel their temperature once your internet drops. If it’s hotter than usual and there is a burning smell, then overheating is the culprit.
To fix the problem, make sure you are using the correct power adapter specified by Cox. A different adapter could be pumping excess power to the modem or router and thus causing overheating.
Another possible fix is placing the modem or router in a well-ventilated position. This allows unrestricted air circulation in and out of the equipment.
It could also be that your router or modem is old, and that’s why it’s overheating even when you are using the correct power adapter, and it is set in a ventilated position.
In this case, you will have to budget for an upgrade – a new router and modem.
3. Update Router/Modem Firmware
You can also fix the problem of Cox internet disconnecting by updating the router or modem’s firmware.
Firmware plays an integral part in the overall functionality of your internet connection. In case it is outdated or has malware, you may experience constant disconnection and reconnection.
Updating your router/modem to the latest firmware could fix bugs causing the internet to disconnect and reconnect randomly. It also fixes malware-related bugs.
Note: You shouldn't focus on outdated firmware as a reason for your internet dropping if you are using Cox's router.
The company pushes firmware updates to all Cox networking devices automatically.
However, if you are using a third-party router, consider updating the firmware manually or contact Cox to help you push the firmware update.
4. Bad Cables and Connectors
Another reason that can cause intermittent internet connection issues is loose or faulty cables or connectors. Carefully inspect all the connectors and cables and ensure they are in order.
Loose connections can cause intermittent internet connectivity, so make sure they are firmly attached. If you have worn out cables or connectors, replace them to see if the problem will be solved.
Also, make sure that the coaxial cables are not intertwined with any other cables, as this can also cause intermittent connectivity.
5. Wireless Interference
If your Cox panoramic WiFi keeps disconnecting and reconnecting, the problem could be wireless interference and happens mainly on the 2.4GHz band.
The problem is caused by the overlapping signals of other routers and hotspots on the same frequency as your router’s.
To fix the problem, change the channel of your router to a higher band than the default. Better still, use the 5GHz band as it’s faster, and in fact, the industry standard.
Note: It's also essential to position the router further away from home appliances that can cause channel overlap.
Below are the distances that should be between your home appliances and the router.
| Bluetooth devices | 40 ft. |
| Cordless phones | 20-30ft. |
| Baby monitors | 20-40ft. |
| Microwaves | 40ft. |
6. Weak WiFi Signal
A weak WiFi signal can also cause your internet to drop and reconnect frequently. Here, the problem is not the internet connection but a weak WiFi signal.
The longer the distance between your router and the device, the poorer the WiFi signal strength. Also, obstacles such as walls can cause weak WiFi signals and, consequently, frequent internet disconnection and reconnection.
In most cases, using your device near the router solves the problem. You can also solve the problem by repositioning your router to serve all the devices or investing in WiFi boosters.
7. WiFi Overload
The last reason that could cause your Cox internet to drop frequently is an overloaded WiFi network.
Despite having a strong WiFi signal, having many devices will likely cause some devices to be disconnected from the WiFi before reconnecting again because of low bandwidth.
To solve the problem, try reducing the number of connected devices to free up some bandwidth. Alternatively, subscribe to a higher internet package.
Ask Help
The above are some common reasons why Cox internet keeps disconnecting and reconnecting.
Unfortunately, you will have to seek expert assistance if you are still experiencing the same problem after applying all the above fixes.
While there may be technicians in your neighborhood, we recommend contacting Cox for help. Below are the channels you can use to get help from Cox.
- Live chat with Oliver (AI assistant)
- Visit a Cox store.
- Get help from the Cox community.
- Get Cox Complete Care.
- Call Cox support.
An intermittent Cox internet connection can be the result of a router bug that requires router and modem restarting.
It could also be caused by outdated router or modem firmware, an overheating router or modem, loose or faulty coaxial cables and connectors, wireless interference, weak WiFi signal, or WiFi overload.
Read Next: How to Cancel Cox Cable but Keep Internet?
Wrapping Up
One of the common questions asked on Cox, and other networking forums is, why does Cox internet keep disconnecting and reconnecting randomly?
If you were struggling with intermittent internet when bingeing on Netflix or gaming, you know what to do. Try the above fixes before calling Cox, buying new networking equipment, or switching to another ISP.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.