Wi-Fi & routers

Ethernet port on the router isn't working

A single dead Ethernet port on a router is common as hardware ages, while all ports failing usually points to a cable, device, or router-wide problem, and testing with another cable and port helps narrow it down.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–15 minutes
DIY cost
$10–$100
Pro cost
$0–$80

Symptoms

  • A device plugged into one specific port gets no connection
  • Port's light doesn't turn on when a cable is plugged in
  • Device works fine when moved to a different port on the same router
  • All wired devices lose connection at once

Likely causes

  • CommonA single Ethernet port has failedIndividual ports can fail from electrical surges or simple wear while the rest of the router works fine.
  • CommonFaulty Ethernet cableA damaged cable is often mistaken for a port problem.
  • PossibleDevice's own network adapter or port issueThe problem may be with the connected device rather than the router.
  • PossibleRouter-wide hardware or firmware issueIf every port fails at once, the cause is more likely the router itself rather than one component.

What to do

  1. Try a different Ethernet cable in the same port to rule out a bad cable.
  2. Move the same device and cable to a different port on the router to see if the problem follows the port or the device.
  3. Try connecting a different device to the suspect port to confirm whether it's the port or the original device at fault.
  4. Restart the router, since a port can occasionally stop responding until a reboot.
  5. Check the router's admin page for that port's status (some routers show per-port link status), and check for a stuck 'disabled' setting.
  6. If only one port has failed, simply use a different port going forward or add a small Ethernet switch to regain the lost port's functionality.
  7. If all ports have failed simultaneously, the router likely needs replacement rather than a single-port repair.

Tools and parts

  • Spare Ethernet cable
Small Ethernet switchSearch: “5 port ethernet switch”
Replacement routerSearch: “home wifi router”

When to call a pro

Not usually needed; a failed port can typically be worked around with a switch or a different port without professional help.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.