How to Troubleshoot a Wireless Internet Problem

A wireless router must be connected properly to provide a good signal.

A wireless Internet connection lets you go online without a physical connection. An apparent fault with a wireless Internet connection can be the result of a poor signal from the router, a problem with the main Internet connection or a problem with the computer that is attempting to receive the wireless signal. When it's time to troubleshoot a problem, check the router, the modem and the computer you are using.

Things You'll Need

• Ethernet cable
• Phone cord
• Alternate wireless-compatible computer

Instructions

Check the Wireless Connection From the Router

1. Plug one end of an Ethernet cable into your computer and the other end into the Ethernet port of the router. This bypasses the wireless connection, and tests the Internet connection at the router itself.

2. Reboot your computer.

3. Attempt to access the Internet, once the computer has finished rebooting. If you can get online at this point, the problem is either with your computer or the wireless transmission of the router.

Check Your Computer for a Problem

1. Log in to your wireless network using another computer.

2. Check to ensure that all wireless configuration information is correct, including the network key if the network is secured.

3. Browse the Internet. If you cannot get online from more than one computer, it indicates a problem with either your router or the modem.

Check Your Modem

1. Plug your computer directly into the modem with an ethernet or USB cable.

2. Reboot your computer.

3. Browse the Internet. If your computer can't connect, the problem lies with the modem or the main Internet connection, such as cable or DSL.

Tips & Warnings

• Power-cycle everything before trying any other troubleshooting steps. Power-cycle simply means to turn something off and then on again. After turning the device off, wait 30 seconds before turning the power back on.

• Use power switches where available, rather than simply unplugging a device and plugging it back in, to save wear-and-tear on the device.

References

• Smart Computing: Troubleshoot Wireless Networks