I am using a Westell modem 6100 supplied by Verizon my ISP for DSL. Using the Ethernet connection, everything worked properly. One night a lightening scored either a direct hit or a near miss on the building I live in. This set off all the fire alarms falsely. The next day I could not connect to the Internet, but the computer worked fine. Checking out the problem the computer stated the Ethernet cable is disconnected. I called Verizon and they sent me a new modem, Ethernet cable, and power cord. Unfortunately, I still could not connect to the Internet. I noticed that the XP listed an Agere modem as my default modem. After curses and wringing of hands, I finally got the XP to recognize the Westell 6100 modem. The computer still would not load the Internet stating the Ethernet cable was disconnected. Since everything was new regarding the modem, cables, and step-down transformer, I had to discount that as the problem. I then suspected it was the NIC that was damage by the lightening and changed it. They say be happy don’t worry, but I still was unhappy. I than decided that I would use the USB connection on the modem to the computer praying that if something was wrong with the Ethernet inside of the computer I could detour around it. Disconnecting the Ethernet cable from the modem and the computer, I connected the modem and computer with a USB cable. To my surprise, it worked and appeared to be just as good as the Ethernet if not faster. The question I have is USB just as good as Ethernet. The other question I have is it better to shut down the modem or disconnect the line from the wall socket just in case the lightening scores a bull’s eye again. I always shut down the computer after I finish using it or if lightening is walking about, but not the modem. A footnote is that I have only one computer in my apartment and no other computer is connected to it.

Hi there JSB,

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In my first post, I typed UBS instead of USB. I misplaced my reading glasses and cannot find them if I’m not wearing them.

Welcome to CompuForums. It's a pleasure to have you with us. We look forward to seeing your posts for questions, as well as assisting others, where possible.

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Once again .... Welcome to CompuForums.