Internet and Network problems are frustrating, time consuming, annoyances that plague all of us. Here are a few quick things to check for when you start having that annoying pain in the backside…
The first thing to do… after realizing you are having a problem is to take a deep breath and relax. Panic, stressing out, erupting in anger do NOT help the situation. This may sound cliche or cheesy but there are steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. Technical savvy be damned… rely on common sense first!
First thing is first… do the lights that SHOULD be lit up illuminate? Most modems have similar lights to the image listed above. Technology is a concept so network to networks are similar even if they are not exact.
Should you notice a light not acting “normal” remove only the power cable for 2 minutes or more. We recommend also turning off all items connected to your network weather wireless OR wired.
Now that everything is turned off and 2 minutes or more have past it is time to power up again. Start with plugging your modem in and waiting 2 minutes. THEN turn on your router. Again, wait 2 more minutes. Then turn on all items attached to your network starting with your computers.
Generally by this point your problem should be corrected as long as the problem is IN your network and not a problem with your ISP or Internet Service Provider.
For DSL internet users such as AT&T DSL or AT&T Broadband internet users you should check your phones for static. If you notice static on your phones regardless of the filters STOP STOP STOP! Call AT&T immediately and inform them that you have static on your lines. That static can rapidly interfere with your quality of service and will certainly cause intermittent drop offs in your internet service. With static on the line the only help you can get is from AT&T as the problem is more than likely an old phone or more likely to be the line between your home/office and the utility pole. You must STRONGLY insist this be checked especially after freezing weather or after a rainstorm.
Checking the internet by way of your web browser such as Google Chrome or Internet Explorer is not the sure fire way to see if the problem is corrected!
Click on the 
or 
icon by the clock using the RIGHT mouse button. Click on Open Network and Sharing Center.
You will notice each of the icons has color and each connecting line has no red X in the middle. This indicates that My computer is connected to my router / gateway / modem called “Home” and that that router is connected with the outside world or “internet” without a problem.
Don’t run out and purchase expensive equipment if your network doesn’t have the picture of health depicted above. Other minor issues could be at play. To be sure, take your computer to a friend or relatives house and try your computer on their network. If you cant find someone willing or capable please consider bringing your equipment in to WeldonPC.com. Still having a problem? Maybe it is time for some maintenance.
Please call 216-475-0661 to schedule a time to have your equipment checked at our office. More contact information can be found on our Contacts Page.
