Will a cable modem work if no nic is present?

[Rav3n]

I think my NIC is giving my machine some problems, so I want to take it out and just leave it out. I do not have another one just laying around to replace, but I am thinking I dont need one. I have a cable modem and right now, the modem is hooked up to a router, and I have an ethernet wire running from the router to the pc. If I took out the NIC from my pc, and hooked up the Cable modem via USB, would I still have an internet connection? This would also mean that I would still have the router attached to the cable modem...

 

[thuned]

So your cable modem both an ethernet out and an usb out? Sounds like it should work. I don't know why you even need the router then (unless you have multiple computers?).

 

[Rav3n]

router is for other computers

As for the cable modem... yeah, it has an ethernet connection and usb. The model is Motorola sb4100

 

[redbeard1]

I was under the impression that you could only use one port at a time on the cable modem. You can always try it and see if it does work.

 

[HappyPuppy]

Your router and the pc are both going to be asking for IP addresses, no? If your ISP gives you more than one it may work. If you only get one IP then there will probably be problems.

 

[Rav3n]

HappyPuppy you definitely have a point... I should probably try anyway, just to see what happens. I am so lazy though...

 

[Texun]

The modem is set to provide one IP address. Ethernet or USB should work fine but not both at the same time. If you load it up USB and it doesn't pull an IP just disconnect the modem for about an hour or more and let the CMTS clear. Some operators bind the modem to the MAC address. If it has been bound to the Ethernet MAC it will need to clear before the modem will recognize the new MAC for the USB connection.

Not all are set up this way. But it's an FYI in case you have problems.

 

[morkinva]

When I use the usb connection, the modem grabs a different IP than when I use the ethernet connection (with my sb4100).

Also, your computer will need the drivers to use the usb connection.

 

[GonzoDaGr8]

With the possible hassle involved in using the USB, Sounds like getting an inexpensive nic might be a better idea. Besides, Your router is helping in being a firewall, If you go around that and straight to the modem, You will lose that function.

 

[Rav3n]

I want to keep the router, thats not an issue. It does seem that getting a cheap NIC would be the best solution. Thing is, how does a NIC just all of a sudden go bad? I install the drivers, and then when I change something, I have to reinstall the drivers. It cant be the HD because it was doing it with another HD... errrrrr

 

[GonzoDaGr8]

If you have a local PC shop that is pretty good at returning things, It might be worth a shot. worst comes to worst, you bring it back. Also, If you do get another nic, might try putting it in another slot if you can. That may sort out any conflicts.