Question:

How can I use a coaxial port in the basement to connect to the internet without paying for a second modem or a long cable?

I am planning to move into my parents’ basement, which has cement floors that interfere with wifi signals. There is a tv/coaxial port in the basement that I would like to use as an access point for the internet. However, I already have a modem upstairs that is connected to my internet account. Is it possible to install another modem in the basement and use the same account, or is there a better solution to avoid running a long cable throughout or outside the house?

Answer:

If you are looking for a way to access the internet in your basement without paying for a second modem or running a long cable, you might be interested in using the existing coaxial cable in your home. Coaxial cable is the round, usually white, cable that carries TV signals and is often found in many rooms of the house. You can convert this cable into an Ethernet connection that can deliver high-speed internet to your devices.

To do this, you will need a device called a coax-to-Ethernet adapter, also known as a MoCA adapter. MoCA stands for Multimedia over Coax Alliance, which is a technology standard that allows data to be transmitted over coaxial cable. A MoCA adapter converts the coaxial signal into an Ethernet signal that your computer, router, or other device can use.

You will need at least two MoCA adapters to create a MoCA network in your home. One adapter will connect to the coaxial port in the basement, and the other will connect to the coaxial port near your modem upstairs. You will also need Ethernet cables to connect the adapters to your devices, and coaxial cables to connect the adapters to the ports. Optionally, you can also use a MoCA filter to prevent your MoCA signal from leaking out of your home and interfering with your neighbors’ networks.

The setup process is fairly simple and does not require any special tools or skills. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Plug one end of a coaxial cable into the coaxial port in the basement, and the other end into the coax port on the MoCA adapter.

2. Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the MoCA adapter, and the other end into the Ethernet port on your device, such as a computer, router, or smart TV.

3. Plug the power adapter of the MoCA adapter into a power outlet and turn it on. You should see some LED lights indicating that the device is working.

4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 for the other MoCA adapter, connecting it to the coaxial port near your modem upstairs. Make sure that the modem is also connected to the same coaxial cable using a coax splitter if needed.

5. If you have a MoCA filter, install it on the main coaxial cable that enters your home, usually near the cable box or the utility pole. This will block the MoCA signal from escaping your home and ensure better performance and security.

6. Wait for a few minutes for the MoCA adapters to establish a connection. You should see a solid green light on both adapters indicating that they are linked. You can also check the connection speed and quality using the buttons on the adapters or the online management interface.

7. Enjoy your internet connection in the basement using the coaxial cable. You can test the speed and reliability using online tools or by streaming, gaming, or browsing as usual.

By using MoCA adapters, you can turn your coaxial cable into an Ethernet connection that can deliver up to 1 Gbps of internet speed. This is a great solution for areas where wifi signals are weak or unreliable, such as basements with cement floors. You can also use this method to extend your internet coverage to other rooms in your house that have coaxial ports. MoCA adapters are compatible with most cable modems and internet service providers, and do not require any additional fees or subscriptions. They are also easy to install and use, and offer a secure and stable connection for your online needs..