How to Troubleshoot a Gateway LAN

Network gateways, also referred to as routers on modern computer networks, are essential for Internet communications. When you attempt to visit a website, your computer checks to see if the site is on the local network. If it isn't, it sends the information to the default gateway, which is your local router. The router then checks to see if the site is on any of the networks it knows about, and if it isn't, the router sends the packet to its default gateway, which is usually your Internet provider. You can troubleshoot the gateway device on your LAN if your Internet communications are not working properly.

Instructions

1. Power cycle the gateway. Gateways and routers are similar to computers in that they have a CPU and RAM, and run an operating system. This means they can occasionally lock up, similar to a computer. Power-cycling the device alleviates this.

2. Attempt to ping a computer on the other side of the gateway. For example, if it is directly connected to the Internet, ping a well-known website. If you do not receive a ping reply, check the Internet connection.

3. Check the gateway's configuration settings. Some gateways are programmed with static routes. If these routes change for any reason, the gateway will no longer function properly. Most gateways and routers have a Web-based configuration interface. Attempt to ping a well-known website again after checking the route settings.

4. Check the connection media to determine if it is functional. For example, try replacing the Ethernet cable connected between the computer and the gateway.

Tips & Warnings

• If none of the steps alleviate the problem, the gateway device may need to be replaced.