Internet Issue Going From Router to Directly Plugged-In

[IZVERG]

I wanted to try and speed up some downloads so I unplugged my ethernet cable from my AirPort Extreme and plugged it directly in to my MBP. And then nothing, no internet connection at all. Am I missing a step? I went in to my network preferences and this is what it said:

Ethernet: Self-Assigned IP

Status: Connected
Ethernet has a self-assigned IP address and may not be able to connect.

 

[Dysfunction]

Cable modem?

Leave it connected to the MBP, power off the cable modem (unplug it) and plug it back in.

 

[IZVERG]

Yep, good to go now. Thanks a lot!