A Simple Way To Address Common Wireless Network Problems

There are many widely known techniques that make computer ownership much better. Unfortunately, many of these are unknown to a surprising number of users. For example: losing connection to a wireless router is a basic problem with a simple fix many users do not know about that (while not 100% effective in every scenario frequently resolves the underlying problem.

When you lose connectivity to your wireless router, power cycling the modem and router will often solve the problem completely. A number of people do not know how to perform this simple task. Unfortunately, almost any router and modem will need the occasional power cycle. These devices run all the time and like any electronic device will at times run into conflicts that can be handled with a fresh restart.

If you try to resolve the problem by calling for support, you’ll probably experience the following: aAfter spending an hour on hold with your internet service provider, you will be lead through a number of unnecessary steps to rule out serious but not terribly common problems. Since the vast majority of these issues can be quickly resolved by power cycling, it makes sense to learn this technique for home use before calling up tech support.

To power cycle your modem and router, just unplug both devices. That’s it. If your modem uses a battery, reset it after you’ve unplugged the wireless router. While each device is somewhat different, you should wait at least two minutes before plugging back in both machines. If either unit feels unusually hot, you might want to wait until they cool down a bit before powering up.

Once this time has passed, plug in your modem. Permit your modem to finish booting and conenct back up to the internet. After it’s fully operational, plug in your wireless router. When your router is also connected, attempt to connect your computers to the network.

It can sometimes also be a good idea to reboot your computers before connecting them to the router. This will means that hey will connect with a fresh IP address. IP address conflicts are a frequent cause for network connectivity problems.

It is regretable that modems and routers are not made with a technical mechanism that can solve this problem for novice users. Since it is such a common and needed practice, it really should be taught to every user as part of proper network maintenance. If internet service providers offered instructions on power cycling to each new customer, it could save a bundle on tech support costs. Untold 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 frequently.

Since this issue requires changes in the states of both the modem and router, it’s hard to create the type of standardized process that would be needed for a purely technical solution. However, it’s entirely possible to enable the novice user to solve this problem with consistency. 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 issue. 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 and repair company, Geek Choice works hard to help the community solve their technical problems. Whether it’s network setup or troubleshooting connectivity issues, if you are having trouble with your network, give us a call at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435). Geek Choice offers on-site service for all of your computer issues.

Gregg Housh works at a nationwide Computer Repair company. At Geek Choice we solve computer problems such as: Slow computer, Virus Removal, Spyware Removal, Computer startup problems, and much more.

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