I can no longer use my LAN connection port in my room which I was able to use before we switched providers.

Troubleshooting LAN Connectivity After Changing Internet Providers: What You Need to Know

Many households rely on wired Ethernet connections for stable internet access, especially when gaming, streaming, or working from home. If you’ve recently experienced a loss of connectivity through a previously functioning wall jack after switching internet providers, it can be both frustrating and confusing. Here’s a comprehensive overview to help you diagnose and resolve the issue.

Understanding Your Home’s Network Setup

Typically, a home Ethernet wall port is connected internally to the main network infrastructure—either through a dedicated patch panel or directly to the router via Ethernet cables. When set up correctly, connecting your device to this port should provide internet access without additional configuration.

What Might Have Changed with Your Provider Switch?

Switching internet providers can sometimes alter your network’s configuration, leading to the following potential issues:

Different Router or Modem Configuration: New provider equipment might have different port settings or network management protocols.
Reconfigured Network Topology: The internal cabling or the assignment of IP addresses could have been altered.
Inactive or Disconnected Internal Cables: Physical connections might have been disturbed or need re-termination during the switch.

Steps to Troubleshoot and Resolve the Issue

Verify Physical Connections
Ensure that the Ethernet cable connecting the wall port in your room to the main network panel or router is intact and securely plugged in.
Check for any visible damage to the cable or connectors.
If possible, test the wall port with a known working Ethernet cable or try connecting directly to the main router to verify that the network is operational.
Assess Internal Cabling
Determine whether your home uses a structured cabling system or simple direct runs.
If structured, locate the patch panel or central connection point and confirm the Ethernet cable from the wall port is properly connected and not loose.
Configuration Considerations
In most residential setups, the Ethernet port in your room should be ‘hot’ and configured automatically by the network. However, post-switch, the network’s DHCP settings or subnet may need updating.
Check whether your router’s LAN ports are enabled and configured correctly.
If your new provider supplied a modem/router combo, ensure that the wall port is properly integrated into this device’s network.
Testing the Connection
Use an Ethernet tester or connect a device directly to the wall port to see if it receives an