Having Problems with my Cable Connection?

[theRedMosquito]

Yo...what up guys. i have a queary for all you knowledge pc guys and girls out there. my cable connection has been all outta wack lately. I've been subject to random signal drops, disconnection, and etc. I'm using a linksys befcmu10 cable modem, and a linksys befsr41 v.2 router. at first i noticed that my modem was always extremely hot and though overheating of the modem was causing the problems. i moved the modem to a more ventilated area. the modem stayed noticeably cooler, but performance was the same. i almost positive that both modem and router are running latest firware, but drivers?....not totally sure since winxp never asked for any. second there have been wierd instances where after a connection faliure (not recieving internet) i get a week signal (enough for surfing the net, but no games) but the modem cable light does not flash. is this a problem with my cable provider, or is my modem heading towards the way of the dinosaur. this modem is only like two months old and replaced another modem that was less than 6 months old. or could it possilbly be that i'm too hard on my modem with gaming, dlin'g, and internet browsing? any suggestions, ideas, or tips would be sweet.

 

[Lothar1974]

have you tried not using the router and go from the modem directly to ypu PC?
To see if maybe the router is bad or to see if your connection still acting up.

 

[LiLithTecH]

Are you in a metro area where the cable is run on Telephone poles or where
the cable itself is exposed at some point?

A common problem with that scenario is usually the drop from the pole or
the connection into the building itself gets frayed or chewed on by varmets (squirels, crows, etc.)
It will cause weak signals and intermittent losses (everytime a stiff wind blows for example).