cant get LAN ports working

[mado]

hey everyone! I'm new around here.
apologies in advance if this sub-thread isn't the correct one, it seemed to fit my query the most.
anyway, recently my family switched ISPs and we have no need for our old router.
for reference, it's an Actiontec V1000H.
anyway, I had the idea of creating a little auxiliary network between my older devices. it doesn't have internet access, but would be strictly used to create connectivity between the devices (for purposes like SSH).
the router generates the AP fine and I'm totally able to connect my wireless devices, but I cannot for the life of me get LAN to work.
I've tried different cables, different LAN ports on the router, and have tried connecting the LAN cable to two different computers.
both computers refuse to recognize the cable being plugged in, and the routers LAN indicators don't light up at all.
if anyone has any input as to why LAN is refusing to work, it would be much appreciated!
thanks in advance.
if you need any extra info like the routers firmware, etc. just let me know.

[icecream-guy]

They should work,  there is not an option to turn off the LAN ports, 

ref http://www.actiontec.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/V1000H-User-Manual-NCS.pdf

login, advanced settings, status, LAN Status.  What does that report (pp71)

did your setup a LAN ip in the configuration ?  (pp 46 and 47)

[deanwebb]

Agree, this may be a setting in the device itself.