Is your Xfinity router blinking orange and you’re not sure what it means?
If your Xfinity router is blinking orange, it means that it is currently undergoing a firmware upgrade. After 15 minutes, the light should return to normal, and the router will function as usual. However, if it does not stop after 15 minutes, there might be a problem.
While a flashing orange light generally indicates a firmware upgrade is underway, there are several other reasons the light could be flashing orange. Through reading this article, you will understand what the orange flashing light could possibly indicate and how to fix the issue.
Why Is Your Xfinity Router Blinking Orange?
The Xfinity Router features several lights that indicate the device’s status in terms of how it is functioning. Certain lights will indicate everything is functioning as it should. In contrast, others will show a need for intervention on your part.
For example, steady white light on the Xfinity Router indicates that the router is turned on and functional. A steady red light will indicate that there is no internet connection at all. A blinking orange light indicates that the router is undergoing a firmware update.
The firmware upgrades occasionally occur with your router and are extremely important to ensure optimal functioning of the router overall. These updates will ensure that any bugs and other issues are taken care of before becoming a major problem for the router.
Suppose your router’s light continues blinking orange after the full fifteen minutes. In that case, there are several other possible causes for the issue. Troubleshooting the cause of the problem may require you to attempt several different fixes to ensure that you get to the bottom of the problem.
You can try to reset the router. This is done either by unplugging the power or using the reset button on the back of the router. Alternatively, you can check the splitter for any issues. Splitters often cause problems and should, in fact, be avoided if possible.
Loose cables could be causing the issue at hand, so checking the cables may reveal the main issue. It is also possible that there is a service outage in your area, so this is something else that you will need to check for.
There is potential for a faulty Wi-Fi connection, so it may be to your benefit to try an ethernet cable to ensure a more stable connection.
Suppose your router is blinking orange after the initial installation. This blinking orange light could indicate that there is a problem with your system as different routers have different system requirements. If your equipment or operating system does not meet the minimum requirements, it will not work effectively.
If all else fails, you may need to contact Xfinity Support, who will assist you in trying to get your router operating optimally once more.
Wait For The Firmware Upgrade
Your Xfinity router will automatically connect to the servers and download the necessary updates when an update is available. You must wait for the router to complete the firmware upgrade before attempting to restart the router.
Suppose you interrupt the update before it has completed all its processes. In that case, you will potentially cause damage or corruption to the router’s software. After 15 minutes have elapsed, your router should return to normal, and the lights will stop blinking orange. However, if it doesn’t, there are several options available to you.
If, after 15 minutes, the light is still blinking, try unplugging the router. Once unplugged, wait a full sixty seconds before attempting to plug it back in again.
Reset The Router
Resetting the router may be the most effective way to fix the abovementioned problem. This can be done either by unplugging the power or using the reset button built into most routers.
Start by turning off the computer and any other devices connected to the router to begin a full reset. Next, unplug the power cable from the router and wait a full minute. Plug the power back in and then wait 10 minutes for the router to reinitialize completely.
While the ten minutes are underway, check the status lights of the device to see how it is progressing. Once the lights have returned to normal, turn on your devices again.
If you opt to use the device’s reset button, the process is similar to that outlined above. First, turn off the computer and other devices. Find the reset button on the router, usually located at the back or on the bottom.
Press and hold the Xfinity router’s reset button using a pin or another sharp object. Wait for the Xfinity router to reboot, and then check the status light to see if the router is fully online again. If this is the case, turn on the device again and attempt to use the internet again.
Check The Splitter
Splitters can be useful, but they tend to be the root of several connection issues. The splitter’s main role is to distribute the internet signal to other devices such as TVs and modems. If the splitter becomes damaged, it can cause the router to start blinking orange, potentially indicating a loss of internet connection.
If you suspect the splitter is faulty, your simplest option will be to replace it. Splitters tend to weaken the internet signal, however, so it will be in your best interest to plug your internet cable directly into the router.
Try An Ethernet Connection
There could be some issues with your Wi-Fi connections, so you should try connecting the router to your computer using an ethernet cable. If this fixes the problem, you know the issue most likely lies with the router.
Check For Potential Service Outages
Any potential service outages in your area will reduce signal strength for your router. As a result, you may lose your internet connection altogether. To establish if there is a service outage in your area, simply check on the Xfinity application on your smartphone.
Check For Loose Cables
Loose cables can cause major issues with your router, resulting in a blinking orange light. Simply check the cables for any damage as well as any loose connections. Wires can easily become disconnected when moving items around or cleaning in the vicinity, which is a simple fix.
Even a simple bend or kink in the wire can cause the orange light to blink. If you discover any loose or damaged cables, replace them and check if the problem has been resolved.
Check The Minimum System Requirements
If you have just installed your Xfinity router and the light is already blinking orange, your device could have an issue. You will need to check if your computer’s operating system meets the minimum system requirements of the router.
If the device does not meet the minimum system requirements, it simply won’t function with the router. Because different routers have different system requirements, replacing your old router with a new one may result in a non-functional router.
Contact Xfinity Support
If none of the above quick fixes have worked for you, your best bet is to contact the Xfinity support line. When calling them, they will be able to let you know whether there are any service interruptions.
Staff will then guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your Xfinity router is properly set up.
Conclusion
Generally speaking, a blinking orange light on an Xfinity Router indicates that the router is undergoing a firmware upgrade. If, however, you have waited over fifteen minutes and the light is still blinking orange, it could indicate another issue with your router. By following the above, you should be able to determine – and fix – the issue.