Internet Connectivity issue MacBook Pro x2

I just recently moved into a new apartment, and had the internet set up the other day. Right off the bat, there was difficulty making a connection. Although the modem showed "online", two macs (and two iPhones), were both unable to connect, both via wireless router AND ethernet. The internet service provider came out to attempt to resolve the issue. The technician replaced the modem and was subsequently able to connect to the internet via ethernet. However, when attempting to connect with both macs via ethernet, we were unable to, and both the macs and pc were unable to connect wirelessly. The technician was unable to figure out the problem and wrote it off as an "apple problem". However I disagree and was hoping someone with similar problems could possibly help me out. Just some more info...when attempting to connect to the internet the macs had an IP address beginning with 169 that was "unable to connect to the internet". Any help or input would be greatly appreciated.. Also FYI the internet provider is "Hotwire", they contract with my building so we are forced to use them...