Data to modem if no computer connected?

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peejayw

1841 posts

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#140919 24-Feb-2014 15:25

This is probably a really dumb question but here goes....
If a modem is connected to the internet but there is no computer connected to the modem, ie wifi disabled and nothing plugged in to ethernet, can data still be sent to the modem resulting in data charges?
I have been informed that if you have a virus, even if the computer is not turned on, data can still be sent to the modem from an outside source in an attempt to connect, sounds a bit suspect to me but who knows.

Thanks.

I'm supposed to respect my elders, but it's getting harder and harder for me to find one now.

sbiddle

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Biddle Corp

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#993385 24-Feb-2014 15:34

Yes.

The fact you don't have a computer connected is irrelevant. The router still has an IP address that is accessible on the internet.

Best way to look at it is it's the same as having no phone plugged on.. But people can still ring your number.

johnr

19282 posts

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#993386 24-Feb-2014 15:35

Turn off modem and then not possible

peejayw

1841 posts

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#993411 24-Feb-2014 16:03

Hmm, turning modem on then off every time you want to connect to the internet could turn into a PITA. Is there a better alternative to find out where the data is coming from and then block it? I have DU Meter but that just tells me how much data, not where from.

I'm supposed to respect my elders, but it's getting harder and harder for me to find one now.

RunningMan

8953 posts

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#993463 24-Feb-2014 17:16

peejayw: [snip]
I have been informed that if you have a virus, even if the computer is not turned on, data can still be sent to the modem from an outside source in an attempt to connect, sounds a bit suspect to me but who knows.

As above, yes, data can still be sent to your modem, and will most likely count toward any data cap you have. This is not related to having a virus though - it's normal behaviour.

First thing would probably be to make sure that your router is locked down when looking from the WAN side - there's various online services that can do a port scan and similar via the web. A common one recently with certain models of modem is they will respond to DNS requests from the outside world, which can generate a lot of traffic in a short time.

MurrayM

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#993933 25-Feb-2014 10:22

peejayw: Hmm, turning modem on then off every time you want to connect to the internet could turn into a PITA. Is there a better alternative to find out where the data is coming from and then block it? I have DU Meter but that just tells me how much data, not where from.

It always amazes me why people are so resistant to turning off their routers when not in use. Just before going to bed at night I always turn off my router (also my TV, lights, etc). And in the morning I turn it back on. I do this for a number of reasons: stop any unwanted data from being received, improve security (hackers can't get in if it's not turned on), save power, prolong the life of the router from heat damage, improve reliability and speed of the router by clearing its memory regularly.

Of course this is just for a regular DSL modem / router. Things will change when we all go fibre and will be running our phones via VOIP and have more connected devices.

Ragnor

8219 posts

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#994048 25-Feb-2014 12:27

peejayw: Is there a better alternative to find out where the data is coming from and then block it?

What make and model is your modem/router?

peejayw

1841 posts

Uber Geek

#994057 25-Feb-2014 12:38

Orcon Lite 4 port VOIP Modem.

I'm supposed to respect my elders, but it's getting harder and harder for me to find one now.