How to tell if AT&T internet is down near you
AT&T has a status page where you can check whether an outage is happening in your specific area. Go to att.com/support, look for "Check service status" or "Service alerts", and enter your address or phone number. The page will tell you whether AT&T has reported an outage in your neighborhood and, if one exists, when they expect service to return.
If the status page shows no outage but your internet is still not working, the problem is likely with your equipment or account rather than AT&T's network. This distinction matters because it changes what you need to do next.
You can also call AT&T directly at 611 from any phone, or 1-800-331-0500 from a mobile phone or another provider's line. A representative can confirm whether an outage exists in your area and tell you the expected restoration time. This is faster than waiting for a web page to load if your internet is completely down.
Key Takeaways
- AT&T's status page at att.com/support shows real-time outage information for your address.
- Calling 611 from any phone or 1-800-331-0500 confirms an outage without needing internet access.
- If AT&T reports no outage, restart your modem and router before assuming the problem is on their end.
- Most AT&T outages last between 30 minutes and 4 hours, though major events can take longer.
- AT&T's app also shows service status if you have it installed, though the website is usually faster.
What to do while waiting for service to return
During an outage, AT&T cannot restore your service faster by calling repeatedly. One call to confirm the outage is enough. Calling multiple times ties up their lines and slows down their ability to help other customers.
If you need internet urgently, use mobile data from your phone's hotspot, go to a nearby coffee shop or library with public WiFi, or ask a neighbor if you can use their connection temporarily. These are your fastest options while AT&T works on the outage.
Keep your modem and router plugged in during the outage. When AT&T restores service, your equipment will reconnect automatically in most cases. Unplugging them can sometimes cause connection problems when service returns.
Checking if the problem is your equipment, not AT&T
If AT&T's status page shows no outage in your area, the issue is almost always your modem, router, or account settings rather than AT&T's network. Start by restarting both devices: unplug your modem, wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in. Then do the same with your router. Wait two to three minutes for both to fully restart before testing your connection.
Look at the lights on your modem while it restarts. You should see a power light, an internet light, and lights for each device connected to it. If the internet light stays red or off after three minutes, the modem is not connecting to AT&T's network. This usually means a line problem between your house and AT&T's equipment, which AT&T needs to fix.
If the lights look normal but you still have no internet, restart your router the same way. If that does not work, try connecting one device directly to the modem with an ethernet cable to rule out a router problem. If that device works, your router needs to be restarted or replaced. If it does not work, the problem is your modem or AT&T's line.
When to contact AT&T for a technician visit
Contact AT&T if restarting both devices does not restore your connection, or if the modem lights show no internet connection after waiting three minutes. You can call 611, 1-800-331-0500, or use the AT&T app to report the problem. Have your account number or phone number ready.
AT&T will ask you to describe what you see on the modem lights and may walk you through a few more troubleshooting steps. If those do not work, they will schedule a technician visit. Most appointments are available within one to three business days, though urgent cases may be sooner.
A technician visit costs nothing if AT&T's equipment or line is the problem. If the issue is your own router or a device on your network, AT&T may charge a service fee, though they will tell you this before sending someone out.
Understanding AT&T outage notifications
AT&T sends text messages and emails about major outages if you have notifications turned on in your account settings. These messages include the expected time service will return and sometimes a link to more information. You can turn notifications on or off through the AT&T app or by logging into your account at att.com.
Not all outages trigger automatic notifications. Small outages affecting only a few blocks may not be announced. If you suspect an outage but have not received a message, check the status page or call to confirm.
AT&T updates the expected restoration time as they learn more about the problem. If the status page says service will return at 3 p.m. and it is now 2:45 p.m., that estimate may change in either direction. Checking the page again in 15 minutes will give you the most current information.
What causes AT&T internet outages
The most common causes are weather events like thunderstorms, high winds, or heavy snow that damage cables or knock out power to AT&T's equipment. Accidents such as construction crews hitting underground lines also cause outages. Less often, AT&T performs maintenance on their network, which they usually announce in advance.
Widespread outages affecting entire neighborhoods or cities are usually weather or accident related and take longer to fix. Outages affecting only a few houses are often line problems specific to those addresses and may be faster to repair. The status page will tell you how many customers are affected, which gives you a sense of the scale.
You cannot prevent outages, but you can prepare by keeping your phone charged and knowing where you can access WiFi if your internet goes down for an extended period.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check AT&T internet status without internet access?
Call 611 from any phone or 1-800-331-0500 from a mobile phone. A representative will confirm whether an outage exists in your area and tell you the expected restoration time. This is the fastest way to get information when your internet is completely down.
Will AT&T credit my account if there is an outage?
AT&T may credit your account for extended outages, but policies vary by location and account type. Contact AT&T after service is restored to ask about a credit. They will review the outage duration and your account history to decide whether a credit applies.
What if the status page says there is no outage but my internet is still down?
Restart your modem and router by unplugging both for 30 seconds and plugging them back in. Wait three minutes for them to fully restart. If that does not work, check the modem lights to see if the internet light is on. If it is off or red, call AT&T to report a line problem. If it is on, the issue is likely your router or a device on your network.
How long do AT&T outages usually last?
Most outages last between 30 minutes and 4 hours. Weather-related outages or those affecting large areas may take longer. The status page will show the expected restoration time, which AT&T updates as they learn more about the problem.
Can I get a refund instead of a credit for an outage?
AT&T typically offers account credits rather than refunds for outages. The credit amount depends on how long service was down and your account type. Contact AT&T to discuss what they can offer for your specific situation.