LTG TECH TIP: TROUBLESHOOTING WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY FAILURES
In our increasingly technology-driven lifestyles, wireless connectivity problems are more than a simple inconvenience. They can bring your business to its knees. When connectivity problems stand in the way of completing your next big project, it can be frustrating to endure the wait time and cost of a professional to resolve the problem, especially if the fix is simple.
Troubleshooting is a process of elimination. Typically connectivity problems occur due to a malfunction in one of four areas: the workstation, the router, the modem, or the ISP. As your optimal technology partner, LTG wants to minimize your down-time by offering the troubleshooting tips below. You may be able to resolve your connectivity problems fast with these handy tips.
The Workstation The network card, settings, and software installed on the workstation (laptop or PC) are likely culprits for malfunctions. Diagnose it: Check that your wireless access is enabled
Windows 7: Search for Control Panel, select Networking and Internet, select Network and Sharing Center, select Change Adapter Settings, right-click on the icon for Wireless Connection, and click Enable.
Windows 8: Search for Settings and select PC Settings, select Network, and check that the WiFi status is “Connected.”
Run Windows Network Diagnostics
Windows 7: Find the Network and Sharing center again and select Troubleshoot Problems.
Windows 8: Search for “troubleshooting” and open the Troubleshooting option. Select Network and Internet, select Internet Connections.
The Wireless Router The router is connected to your modem and delivers the network signal from the modem to other devices that are hard-wired into the router or that use the wireless network created by the router. Many new modems include a router to reduce equipment (and troubleshooting) needs. Diagnose it:
Move your workstation closer to the router, if possible. walls and other electronic signals can interfere with the wireless connection.
Reset the router by unplugging it and waiting 30 seconds to plug it back in.
Bypass the router by plugging your workstation directly into the modem with an Ethernet cable. If a hard-wired connection to the modem solves the problem then the router is likely at fault.
Check for overheating. Make sure that the router has sufficient airflow and is not in an excessively hot location.
The Modem The modem delivers internet service from your Internet Service Provider (ISP), such as Cox or Century Link, into your home or office. It is possible that the modem is not communicating correctly with the ISP or with your workstation. Diagnose it:
Reset the modem by unplugging it and waiting 30 seconds before plugging it back in.
Check the cables from the wall to the modem and from the modem to the router to ensure that the connection is secure.
The Internet Service Provider (ISP) The ISP is the communications provider that delivers internet service from its data centers to your home or office. When the ISP is experiencing an outage, internet service is interrupted before it arrives at your location. Diagnose it:
Check your browser. Public or guest internet connections often require you to accept terms and conditions before connecting to their network. Open a new browser window after connecting to the network. You may be re-directed to a web page for the company hosting the wireless connection where you can accept the terms and conditions to connect.
Call your provider. Your provider can tell you whether your outage is regional or is specific to your home or office. They can even offer additional troubleshooting tips.
WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS, CALL US!
Tried everything? Frustrated by your equipment? Call LTG! Our technology experts will get you up and running in no time.
Service@LTGAZ.com (602) 748-4040
