How To Troubleshoot Networking

A down, slow, or unreliable network can lead to significant downtime and frustration. Here, we’ll help you troubleshoot a few of the most common network problems.

Try The Power Cycle

When it comes to the physical network, there are two devices that can possibly fail: the router and the modem. Both have simple fixes. Turn them off, wait ten seconds or so, and turn them back on again. This “power cycling” will resolve many network issues. For example, the router may have had a problem renewing its IP address or releasing new IP addresses for the computers on your network. Restarting the router or modem resets the device’s software, often solving
these sorts of problems.

Examine Your Network Adapter

If that didn’t solve the issue, check the PC’s network adapter. The Network Diagnostic utility built into Windows 7 can renew your computer’s IP address and ensure that the network adapter is enabled. To run Network Diagnostic in Windows 7, click the Start orb, select Control Panel, choose Network And Internet, and select Network And Sharing Center. Under View Your Active Networks, select the link next to Connections and click the Diagnose button. Windows will run a few tests to try and fix the problem.

Weak Wireless Signal

Watch out for nearby devices such as microwaves, Bluetooth devices, baby monitors, and phones, all of which can cause interference in the signal. Move your router someplace where it’s less likely to experience interference.

Intermittent Connection

You’ll want to check the physical connections to your router to see if all the cords are securely connected. A loose connection may explain why the Web drops intermittently. It’s possible that the cable may have a cut or kink that causes a fault in the connection. Try replacing the Ethernet cable.

Prevention

Wireless signal interference will typically be worse if the device causing the problem is close to the router. Try moving your router or PC to a different location, where the interference will have less of an effect.