Ethernet not working after thunderstorm

FridaySky

Commendable
Jul 29, 2017
5
0
1,520
My Ethernet does not work, but my Wi-Fi works fine. My modem is an Arris DG1670.

Here's my set-up:
My modem is connected to my desktop via a USB to Ethernet adapter because my Ethernet port on my desktop is broken (it has been broken for quite some time). I do not have a router. My Wi-Fi comes from the modem provided by my ISP (Spectrum).

Here's what happened:
When I heard the thunderstorm rolling around, I cut off all power sources but I did not unplug my modem. There was a cracking sound that I heard during the storm but I did not know where until after the storm stopped. Once the storm had stopped, I restored all power sources but my modem lights would not turn on. To alleviate that problem, I did a hard modem reset by pressing and holding the reset button for an extended period of time before the modem lights came back on. Then, I tried to connect to the Wi-Fi over my Android but all of the modem lights, save for the power light, went back out again. I waited for the lights to restore on their own and let it idle for a while before I turned on my desktop. When I turned on my desktop, I discovered that I had no Ethernet connection. When I went to the Control Panel, my Ethernet adapter was not listed among my network devices.

Here are the steps I took to resolve my problem:
Once I realized that my adapter was fried because it was hot to the touch, I found my spare adapter and cable that I used for my laptop, and I tried plugging these into my desktop. My desktop listed the adapter, but it marked the status of my adapter as "Network Cable Unplugged". I tried to run diagnostics, and I also tried disabling and re-enabling my adapter device, but to no avail.

Then, I tried plugging the Ethernet cable and adapter into my laptop instead. I encountered a similar result: "Network Cable Unplugged". So, I tried with all four of the Ethernet ports on my modem, but none of them worked.

Finally, I called my ISP and the automated message mentioned that there was an issue in my area, and that they would call me back once the issue was fixed. I was unable to speak with any of their operators because I was calling at 7:30 PM.

In summary:
My Ethernet is not working at all. My Wi-Fi works perfectly (I am currently making this post over the Wi-Fi). The lights on my modem appear normal. What is going on? Is this problem on the ISP's end, or is it on my end? Am I able to fix this myself, or should I call for technical assistance?

Aside:
Roughly twenty minutes after I had booted up my desktop, and while working on the Ethernet issue, my desktop shut itself off. Now, it won't turn back on. I have an HP Envy desktop. There's a flashing green light on the back of my tower. I will probably go to Walmart tomorrow and buy myself a hair dryer to correct the issue, but is there any chance that my fried Ethernet capabilities affected my desktop's ability to turn on? Aside from the Ethernet, I did attempt to install Linux yesterday, so I rebooted quite a few times. My Linux Mint operating system was working this morning, so I don't think installing Linux to dual-boot with Windows 10 caused my desktop to fail.

Update:
Thanks to everyone! The ISP replaced the modem for fee. Still no luck with my desktop yet.
 
Solution
sounds like there was a hit near your home and it went back thought the cable modem. 1. see if cablke company cover the cost of your pc repair or homeowners insureance. if the pc a few years old then you may have to buy a new pc. on hp you can have a power supply failure or mb failure. use the clear cmos see if the mb will post again. if not see if someone has a test power supply. if the pc posts with a test unit look on amazon or ebay for a replacment.
 

gijoe50000

Distinguished
May 27, 2013
176
5
18,715
Similar thing happened to me a few years ago over Christmas.

I came home after a thunderstorm and found my router totally dead and my Ethernet port fried. I assume that a surge came through the telephone line, right through the router and ended at the Ethernet port. I had unplugged my PC because the weather was bad, but forgot about the router. Ended up buying a wifi dongle instead of a new motherboard. Broadband company replaced the router for free.

Might not be too helpful but I just thought I'd share anyway. :)