Let's get you unplugged from your Verizon telecom equipment! This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, making sure you know exactly what to do.
Unplugging Your Verizon Telecom Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you ready to declutter your space, return equipment, or simply troubleshoot an issue by completely disconnecting your Verizon telecom gear? While it might seem daunting with all those wires, it's a straightforward process when broken down. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each and every step to safely and effectively unplug your Verizon telecom equipment.
Step 1: Identify Your Verizon Equipment (Let's Play Detective!)
Before we start pulling plugs, let's identify what you're actually dealing with. Take a good look around your modem, router, and any other Verizon-branded boxes. What do you see?
You'll typically encounter some or all of the following:
The Verizon ONT (Optical Network Terminal): This is usually a white or gray box, often mounted on a wall in a utility closet, basement, or garage. It's the point where the fiber optic cable from Verizon enters your home and converts the optical signal into electrical signals for your internet, TV, and phone services. It might look something like a small rectangular box with several indicator lights.
The Verizon Router/Gateway: This is the heart of your home network, broadcasting your Wi-Fi signal and routing internet traffic to your devices. It's usually a larger, more prominent box with antennas (though some newer models have internal antennas). Common Verizon router models include the Fios Quantum Gateway (G1100), the Fios Home Router (G3100), or the Fios Home Router (CR1000A/B).
Verizon Set-Top Boxes (STBs): These are the boxes connected to your TVs that allow you to watch Verizon Fios TV channels. You might have one main DVR and several smaller client boxes.
Verizon MoCA Adapters: If you have an older setup or specific networking needs, you might have these small adapters that use your existing coaxial cable wiring to extend your network. They're typically small, black or white boxes with coaxial ports.
Verizon Voice Adapters (for Digital Voice): If you have Verizon Digital Voice service and not traditional landline, you might have a dedicated adapter for your phone line. This might be integrated into your router or a separate small box.
Take a moment to identify each piece of equipment you have. It will make the rest of the process much smoother.
Step 2: Power Down All Connected Devices
Before unplugging any network equipment, it's good practice to power down any devices that are actively using the internet or connected to your Verizon services. This includes:
Computers: Shut them down completely, don't just put them to sleep.
Smart TVs: Turn them off.
Gaming Consoles: Power them down.
Smart Home Devices: If possible, disable or power off any critical smart home devices that rely heavily on your internet connection.
Verizon Set-Top Boxes: Turn off your TVs and the associated set-top boxes.
This step helps prevent any potential data corruption or unexpected errors when you cut off the network connection.
Step 3: Disconnect Power from the Verizon Router/Gateway
This is usually the easiest piece of equipment to start with.
Locate the Power Cord: Find the power cord plugged into the back of your Verizon router. It will typically be a round, black cable connected to a power adapter that plugs into a wall outlet or power strip.
Unplug from the Router: Gently pull the power cord directly out of the router's power port.
Unplug from the Wall/Power Strip: Now, unplug the other end of the power adapter from the wall outlet or power strip.
You'll notice the lights on your router immediately go out. This is normal and expected.
Step 4: Disconnect All Cables from the Router/Gateway
With the power off, you can now safely disconnect all other cables from your router. Take note of the types of cables you're removing, as it can be helpful if you ever need to reconnect them.
Ethernet Cables: These are usually colored (yellow, blue, gray) and have clips on the ends. They connect your router to computers, gaming consoles, or other network devices. Press down on the small tab on the connector before gently pulling the cable out.
Coaxial Cable: This is a thicker, usually black or white cable with a screw-on connector. It's often used for TV service and sometimes for internet if your router is using a MoCA connection. Twist the connector counter-clockwise to loosen it before pulling it off.
Optical Fiber Cable (if applicable): Some newer Verizon Fios routers (like the G3100 or CR1000A/B) may have a direct fiber optic connection. This cable is very thin and delicate, often yellow or green, and plugs into a small, square port on the router. Be extremely careful with this cable. It might have a small, clear dust cap that you can replace after unplugging if you're keeping the equipment. If you see one, gently press the tab and pull straight out. Avoid bending or sharply creasing this cable.
Phone Cables (if applicable): If you have Verizon Digital Voice, there might be a standard phone cord (RJ11) connected to your router. Press the small tab and pull it out.
Keep the disconnected cables organized if you intend to reuse them or if you're returning the equipment and need to include all accessories.
Step 5: Disconnect Power from Verizon Set-Top Boxes
Now, let's move on to your TV equipment.
Locate the Power Cord: Find the power cord plugged into the back of each set-top box.
Unplug from the Set-Top Box: Gently pull the power cord out of the set-top box.
Unplug from the Wall/Power Strip: Unplug the other end from the wall outlet or power strip.
Repeat this for all your Verizon set-top boxes.
Step 6: Disconnect All Cables from Verizon Set-Top Boxes
Just like with the router, disconnect all other cables from your set-top boxes.
HDMI Cable: This is the most common cable connecting your set-top box to your TV. Gently pull it straight out from both the set-top box and your TV.
Coaxial Cable: This thicker cable with a screw-on connector provides the TV signal to your set-top box. Twist the connector counter-clockwise to loosen it before pulling it off.
Ethernet Cable (if applicable): Some set-top boxes might be connected via an Ethernet cable. Press the tab and pull it out.
Optical Audio Cable (if applicable): If you have a separate sound system connected, you might have an optical audio cable. Gently pull it straight out.
If you are returning the equipment, ensure all original cables are included.
Step 7: Disconnect Verizon ONT (The Main Connection) - Proceed with Caution!
This is the most critical piece of equipment as it's the direct connection to Verizon's network. Only disconnect the ONT if you are absolutely sure you are terminating your Verizon service, moving, or have been instructed to do so by Verizon support.
Locate the ONT: As mentioned in Step 1, this is usually a wall-mounted box.
Locate the Power Cord: The ONT will have a power cord. This might be a standard power adapter, or it could be connected to a larger Power Supply Unit (PSU) box that plugs into an outlet.
If it's a standard adapter: Unplug it from the ONT, then from the wall.
If it's a PSU box: Unplug the cable connecting the ONT to the PSU, and then unplug the PSU from the wall outlet. The lights on the ONT should go out once power is disconnected.
Fiber Optic Cable: This is the most delicate cable connected to the ONT. It's usually a very thin, yellow or green cable. DO NOT BEND, KINK, OR PULL SHARPLY ON THIS CABLE. It can be easily damaged, requiring a technician visit to repair.
Look for a small clip or lever on the connector where the fiber optic cable enters the ONT. Gently press the clip or lever and carefully pull the fiber optic cable straight out.
If there is a small, clear dust cap that came off, carefully replace it over the fiber optic connector on the ONT. This protects the sensitive end of the fiber. If the cap is on the cable itself, you can leave it there if you are completely removing the cable.
Ethernet Cable (to Router): There will likely be an Ethernet cable running from the ONT to your Verizon router. Press the tab and pull it out from the ONT.
Coaxial Cable (if applicable): If your ONT also provides TV service via coaxial, there will be a coaxial cable. Twist the connector counter-clockwise and remove it.
Phone Cables (if applicable): If your ONT provides traditional landline phone service, there will be standard phone cords connected. Press the tab and pull them out.
Once the ONT is unplugged, your Verizon services will cease to function.
Step 8: Organize and Store/Return Equipment
Now that everything is unplugged, you have a few options:
Storage: If you're temporarily unplugging for troubleshooting or moving to a new location with Verizon service, organize all the equipment and cables neatly. Consider labeling the cables if you think you'll forget where they go.
Return: If you are permanently disconnecting your Verizon service, you will need to return the equipment.
Check with Verizon: Before packing anything, contact Verizon customer service or visit their website to understand their equipment return policy. They will provide you with specific instructions, which might include:
Mailing the equipment back using a pre-paid label.
Dropping off the equipment at a Verizon store or authorized return center.
Scheduling a technician to pick up the equipment (less common for standard residential equipment).
Pack Carefully: Pack all the equipment, including power adapters and original cables, securely in a sturdy box. Take photos of the packed contents for your records, especially if mailing.
Get a Receipt: Always get a receipt or tracking number when returning equipment, whether it's through mail or in person. This is your proof of return and will prevent potential unreturned equipment fees.
Congratulations! You've successfully unplugged your Verizon telecom equipment!
Frequently Asked Questions
How to know which Verizon equipment I need to return?
You typically need to return the Verizon ONT (Optical Network Terminal) if it was installed by a technician, the Verizon Router/Gateway, and any Verizon Set-Top Boxes. Check your most recent Verizon bill or contact customer service for a definitive list.
How to pack Verizon equipment for return?
Pack all Verizon-branded equipment, including power adapters and original cables, in a sturdy box. Use packing materials like bubble wrap or crumpled newspaper to prevent damage during transit.
How to get a shipping label for Verizon equipment return?
Verizon usually provides a pre-paid shipping label via email or postal mail after you initiate a service cancellation. You can also sometimes print one from your online Verizon account or request one from customer service.
How to avoid unreturned equipment fees from Verizon?
Return all required equipment within the specified timeframe (usually 30 days after service cancellation) and always obtain a receipt or tracking number as proof of return.
How to troubleshoot internet issues by unplugging Verizon equipment?
To troubleshoot, first unplug the power from your Verizon Router/Gateway for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. If that doesn't work, then try unplugging the power from the ONT for 30 seconds and plugging it back in, then wait for the ONT lights to stabilize before plugging the router back in.
How to find the fiber optic cable on my Verizon ONT?
The fiber optic cable is usually a very thin, yellow or green cable that connects to a small, square port on your Verizon ONT. It often has a small connector with a clip or lever.
How to tell if my Verizon ONT is wall-mounted or freestanding?
Verizon ONTs are typically wall-mounted in utility areas like basements, garages, or utility closets. Some older or commercial installations might have a freestanding ONT.
How to dispose of old Verizon equipment if I don't need to return it?
If Verizon confirms you don't need to return specific equipment, you can responsibly recycle it. Check with your local electronics recycling centers or e-waste disposal programs. Do not simply throw it in the regular trash.
How to reconnect Verizon equipment after unplugging it?
To reconnect, follow the steps in reverse order: reconnect the ONT (power first, then fiber, then Ethernet/coax), then the router (Ethernet from ONT, then power, then other devices), and finally the set-top boxes (coax/HDMI, then power).
How to contact Verizon customer service for equipment questions?
You can contact Verizon customer service by calling the number on your bill, visiting their official website for chat support, or using their My Verizon app.
