this is not the same problem as such. but if i have two devices, one a router for the phone (voip) and a cable modem...how is it determined which one would need firmware....if that is the problem. the two were created to work together, yet i can keep the connection and have the phone but cant access web pages (well i can, but i keep getting cant find server and have to keep resetting the modem) and msn messenger will invariably log me out because of the lost connection...but i can sign right back in. no one (voip provider or cable company) will acknowledge that it is their prob.....which if i think about it...it isnt. it's mine. but i am trying to solve this dilemma. any suggestions....and yes i know things are different there....need more of a theory or tech solution...in laymans language please. thanks