Why won't my desktop computer recognize my internet connection through the Ethernet cable alone? I have to connect to the tower using a USB adapter.
The Ethernet adapters on all our modems are enabled by default, so using cat5 should work.
If your computer does not recognize the Ethernet, the most likely problem is with the network adapter in the tower.
You would have to test the port against a working hub or router to verify it works.
It is possible that the port on the modem could have a problem, but that usually happens from a power surge or something, and generally would affect the whole modem not just the ethernet.
You are welcome to call for a Trouble call to have us come out and check the modem. Trouble calls are free
But if the modem is okay, you will have to have the computer checked out. We do not do computer repair.