Do I Turn Off My Modem When Not In Use?

cacti

I have just installed a new modem on my Vista desktop computer and am using Tiscali. The modem is plugged in directly to the computer. It is a Siemens SE587. When I turned off the computer last night I expected the modem to automatically switch off with the computer. Instead it stayed on and the online green light stayed lit. With my old modem, which was a BT Speedtouch attached to a Windows 98 computer, it went off when I switched off the computer. Is it okay to leave the modem online all the time or should I switch the power switch on the modem off?

robpw2

you need to check with your isp as some download update at night etc they are designed to be on all the time .
Althought in the intrests of wastig electricity then yes turn it off

cacti

Thanks. If I turn it off does it just spring into life the next time I turm it on? I had such a performance getting it installed I would hate to have to do anything to it again. Sorry if this is being a bit thick on my part

robpw2

yes it does
if its a router then it will do

cacti

It seems to be called a wireless modem. Is that the same as a router?

espresso

cacti wrote: »

It seems to be called a wireless modem. Is that the same as a router?

Just leave it on 24/7, why would you want to switch it off when they are designed to be left on? Have you never heard of always on ADSL?

cacti

I did not know until I posted on here that it was designed to be left on. Now I know I will leave it on.

OK_Sauce

Not very money saving tho' is it?:D

I always turn my cable modem and wireless router off at night. I see little point in transmitting anything wirelessly when there's nothing switched on to pick up the signal. I also switch off everything I possibly can at the wallpoint with the exception of my V+ box which needs to be on to download epg info.

espresso

OK_Sauce wrote: »

Not very money saving tho' is it?:D

So how much money do you think that you are saving then?

OK_Sauce

What, by switching things off at night? Haven't a clue, never worked it out, but if my electricity meter flywheel spins slower it's got to be something.

Also I've encouraged my kids to turn lights off if they're not in a room and to keep the thermostat at around 20 degrees.;)

home_alone

If its easy to switch off why leave it on, my l/top, printers, speaker system and router are all on the same socket extension one click and its off. Its not the money its the safety aspect as well, there are comments on overheating routers (mainly the older ones) and fires on goggle why take a chance.

gary