Alternating between 'a network cable unplugged' and 'acquiring network address' error

[Ricko]

My connection dropped out 4 or 5 times within a couple of minutes a few hours ago before dropping out completely. Since then, it's constantly alternating between 'a network cable is unplugged' and 'acquiring network address.

Things I've tried:

- changing ethernet cable
- same set up but with my other PC
- unplugging router (Netgear DG834GT) and plugging it back in
- re-setting the router

To me, that suggests it's not an ethernet cable issue or the ethernet connection on the back of the PC. My phone line is working. None of my wireless devices can connect. Is there any way of checking whether the router is faulty? Could it be anything else?

[Scubbie]

I would suggest that from your description a call to Sky is in order as your router sounds to be faulty.

Please be prepared to confirm things as they go through the 'Sky Answers' check list/script.

I would also suggest the following if possible:

• extract the log in details from the router (keep them in a text file safely on your computer)
• try another router (if a non-Sky router is used, use the above details) - borrowing a friend's Sky router is perfectly fine

[Ricko]

Cheers. I'll give them a phone tomorrow.

[Scubbie]

Sky support operate 24/7.

08442 414141

[Ricko]

My new router arrived today (Sagem F@ST2304) so I'm back online. Only problem is that it only seems to last for around 20 minutes at a time. It connects at just over 7 Mbps before slowly dropping to under 1 and then finally to the point that websites won't load. I then have to reboot the router and start my next 20 minute period. Is this to be expected for a short while with a new router?

Edit: Lasted a couple of minutes this time. Looks like the Noise Margin is dropping after connecting. Here's the stats from when I last rebooted and then a couple of minutes later:

[Scubbie]

Cold you plug a corded telephone into the Test socket, dial '1' and listen for any noise please?

There may be a little hiss, but ideally the line should be silent with no crackling or any other load noise.

Also, just checking, did you swap the PSUs over as well?

[Ricko]

There's a lot of crackling on the line. Never noticed as I never use the landline and my internet has been fine up until the problems started on Monday.

I used the new PSU.

[User05]

Unplug the dsl cable from the router. Do you still hear noise?

[Scubbie]

In this case you need to speak to whomever you pay your line rental to. If this is not Sky Talk, then don't mention the broadband as this will confuse things.

If you are getting a lot of crackling noise you have a line fault.

I specifically asked that you check from the Test socket as from that point to the exchange it is the responsibility of your line provider. If the fault was internal, then it is your responsibility.

[Ricko]

Unplug the dsl cable from the router. Do you still hear noise?

Yeah, it's still there.

It's intermittent but there's definitely a crackling on the line from the master socket with only the phone connected.