How to tell if AT&T internet is down in your area

The fastest way to check is AT&T's service status page at att.com/support. Enter your zip code or service address, and the site will show whether AT&T has reported an outage in your area. If the page shows a notice, it means AT&T knows about the problem and is working on it — you do not need to call.

If the status page shows no outage but your internet is still not working, the problem is likely on your end. Check whether your modem and router are powered on, whether the cables are plugged in firmly, and whether other devices can connect. Restart both devices by unplugging them for 30 seconds, then plugging them back in.

You can also check Downdetector.com, which tracks user reports of outages across all internet providers. A spike in reports from your city suggests a real outage, though Downdetector is not official — AT&T's status page is the source of truth.

Key Takeaways

  • AT&T's official status page at att.com/support shows whether an outage is happening in your zip code.
  • If no outage is reported but your internet is down, restart your modem and router by unplugging them for 30 seconds.
  • Check that cables are plugged in firmly and that your bill is current, since AT&T may suspend service for non-payment.
  • If you see an outage on the status page, AT&T is already working on it — calling support will not speed up the repair.

What to do while waiting for AT&T to fix an outage

Once you confirm AT&T has reported an outage, there is no action you need to take. AT&T's repair teams are already dispatched. The status page will update with an estimated time to restore service, though that estimate often shifts.

If you need internet right away, use your phone's mobile hotspot to tether a laptop or tablet. Most phone plans include hotspot data, though using it counts against your monthly limit. If you have a neighbor with a different internet provider, ask whether you can use their Wi-Fi temporarily.

Do not unplug your modem or router during an outage. Leave them powered on so they can reconnect automatically when service returns. Unplugging them can sometimes delay reconnection.

When the problem is on your end, not AT&T's

If AT&T's status page shows no outage in your area, the issue is almost always your modem, router, or the connection between them. Start by restarting both devices: unplug the modem, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for all lights to turn solid (usually two to three minutes). Then do the same with your router.

Check that the cable from the wall outlet to your modem is plugged in firmly on both ends. If you have a coaxial cable (the thick one with a metal connector), hand-tighten it — do not use pliers. Check that the ethernet cable from your modem to your router is also plugged in all the way.

If restarting does not work, try connecting a computer directly to the modem with an ethernet cable, bypassing the router. If that works, the problem is your router, not AT&T. If it does not work, the problem is your modem or the line coming into your house.

When to contact AT&T support

Contact AT&T if you have restarted both devices, checked all cables, and still have no internet — and the status page shows no outage. You can reach AT&T support at 611 from an AT&T phone, or call 1-800-331-0500 from any phone. Have your account number and service address ready.

You can also start a chat at att.com/support or use the AT&T mobile app if you have one. Chat is often faster than calling, especially during peak hours. Tell the support agent what you have already tried: restarting the modem and router, checking cables, and confirming no outage is reported in your area.

If AT&T determines the problem is inside your house — a bad modem or router — you may be charged for a technician visit unless the modem is AT&T-owned and still under warranty. If the problem is the line coming into your house, AT&T will send a technician at no charge.

Reasons your internet might be down besides an outage

Your bill may be past due. AT&T sometimes suspends service for non-payment before sending a disconnection notice. Check your account at myatt.att.com to see whether a payment is overdue. If it is, pay online or by phone, and service usually restores within a few hours.

Your modem may have reached the end of its life. Modems typically last five to seven years before hardware fails. If your modem is older than that and support has ruled out other causes, replacing it may be the only fix. AT&T will rent you a modem for a monthly fee, or you can buy your own compatible model.

Severe weather can damage the line running to your house even if AT&T has not yet reported an outage. If you see downed power lines, flooding, or other damage near your house, contact AT&T support and describe what you see. They may dispatch a technician faster if they know about physical damage.

How to monitor AT&T outages in your area

If you experience frequent outages, you can sign up for AT&T service alerts. Go to att.com/support, enter your address, and look for an option to receive notifications about outages and maintenance. AT&T will text or email you when service is interrupted.

You can also follow AT&T's social media accounts — @ATT on Twitter and AT&T on Facebook — where they post updates about major outages. These accounts are monitored during business hours and sometimes during emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do AT&T outages usually last?

Most outages are resolved within two to four hours. Larger outages affecting multiple neighborhoods can take longer — sometimes six to twelve hours or more. AT&T's status page shows an estimated restoration time, though that estimate often changes as technicians assess the damage.

Can I get a credit on my bill if AT&T was down?

AT&T does not automatically credit accounts for outages. You can request a credit by contacting support and explaining how long you were without service. AT&T may grant a partial credit, though there is no may provide. The credit is usually a small percentage of your monthly bill.

What if I see an outage on Downdetector but not on AT&T's status page?

AT&T's official status page is more reliable than Downdetector. Downdetector relies on user reports, which can be delayed or inaccurate. If AT&T's page shows no outage, the problem is likely isolated to your house or a small group of customers, not a widespread outage.

Should I call AT&T if the status page says an outage is happening?

No. If AT&T has reported an outage, they are already working on it. Calling support will not speed up the repair and will tie up phone lines that support agents need for other issues. Wait for the status page to show service restored, or check back in a few hours.

Can I switch to a different internet provider if AT&T keeps going down?

That depends on what providers serve your address. Use the FCC's broadband map at broadbandmap.fcc.gov to see what options are available where you live. Some areas have only one provider, while others have cable, fiber, or fixed wireless options. Switching usually requires a new contract and may involve installation fees.