A Simple Way To Address Common Wireless Network Problems
There are a number of simple tricks that make computer use much simpler. Unfortunately, quite a few of these are not known by casual users. For example: losing connection to a wireless router is a basic problem with a simple fix many users are unaware of that (while not 100% effective in every scenario) even beginners can grasp easily if they are taught.
When you lose connectivity to your wireless router, power cycling the modem and router will likely resolve the issue. Some users do not know how to perform this very simple task. It’s a sad fact that pretty much any router and modem on the market will require the occasional power cycle. These devices run constantly and like any electronic device will at times encounter conflicts that can be handled with a simple restart.
If you try to resolve the problem by calling for support, you’ll probably experience the following: aAfter wasting an hour on hold with the internet service provider, you will be lead through a number of unnecessary steps to rule out serious but not terribly common problems. Since so many of these issues are quickly resolved by power cycling, it makes good sense to learn this technique.
To power cycle your modem and router, simply unplug both devices. If your modem has a battery, reset it after you’ve unplugged the wireless router. While each device is different, you should wait at least two minutes before plugging back in both devices. If either unit feels very hot, you may want to wait until they reach a cooler temperature before turning them back on.
Once this time has passed, plug in your modem. Permit your modem to finish booting and acquire a connection. After it’s back online, plug in your wireless router. Once your router is online, attempt to connect your computers to the network.
It can sometimes be helpful to reboot your computers before connecting them to the router. This will allow them to connect to the network with a fresh IP address. IP address conflicts are an all too frequent cause for network connectivity problems.
It is regretable that modems and routers are not built with a technical mechanism that can solve this problem for inexperienced users. Since it is such a common and needed practice, it really should be taught to every user as an aspect of proper network maintenance. If internet service providers offered instructions on power cycling with each new account, they would likely save significant tech support expenses. Countless hours of technical support service are wasted on a procedure that will be necessary for nearly every user. In fact, this is something that most people will have to do quite often.
As this issue requires changes in the states of both the modem and router, it’s hard to create the type of process that would be necessary for a purely technical solution. However, it is not a huge undertaking to enable the casual user to solve this problem simply. Education is the only realistic answer. While it might not seem to be the biggest challenge facing humanity, there is a value in solving this communication problem. Routers and modems need frequent power cycling, and most people do not know how to do it on their own.
Geek Choice understands the frustration of not being able to reach the internet because of network issues. As a nationwide computer repair company, we work hard to help our customers solve their technical problems. Whether it’s network setup or troubleshooting connectivity issues, if you are having trouble with your network, call a customer service representative at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435). Geek Choice offers on-site service for all of your computer issues.
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