Unable to Connect to the Wireless Modem

Modem lights provide information about your connection's health.

Wireless networks are easy to install and use--until they no longer work. Several hardware or software problems can cause network or Internet connectivity issues. Troubleshooting your wireless modem requires a strategic plan to identify and resolve the problem. Your modem, router or access point could have physical, software or security concerns, which can each result in communication errors. When you begin troubleshooting your network, you should always check the hardware--cords or power adapters, for example--first to save time.

Instructions

Physical Network Troubleshooting

1. Click "Start" and then click "Run." Enter "ping" followed by the IP address of your modem. If you receive a response, a communications issue exists. Checking the physical connections of the network will save time. If you do not receive a response, the device may have a configuration issue or may have malfunctioned altogether.

2. Check to make sure your wireless modem, access point and router cords are properly installed. Confirm that the power adapter to each device and the cords to the wall and computer are firmly connected.

3. Turn off the modem for at least five minutes. This will reset the modem and can resolve connectivity issues. Make sure the lights on the modem are green and steady when the device powers up. This may take several seconds to a few minutes. If the "Internet" light is red or not a steady green, the issue may lie with your Internet service provider. Call your provider to confirm that outages are not a concern.

4. Move your router or wireless access point (WAP). The router or WAP location may affect connectivity. Electronics in your home or office--microwaves or cordless phones, for example--may use the same frequency, causing interference. Move the device to another location and check for connectivity.

Driver Troubleshooting and Updates

1. Click the "Start" button. Right-click "My Computer" and then click "Manage."

2. Click "Device Manager" and then double-click "Other Devices" or "Network Adapters." Locate your network adapter in the listing and then right-click the item and select "Properties." Write down the manufacturer and model information.

3. Confirm that the device is working in the "General" tab. If you see an error, click the "Driver" tab and then click "Update Driver." The operating system will download and install an updated driver, which may resolve communication errors.

Security Troubleshooting

1. Confirm that your computer is using the right encryption key. Wired equivalent privacy (WEP) or Wi-Fi protected access (WPA) settings should be the same on each network device, including the computer, router, modem, hub or access point. Locate the WEP or WPA on the back of your router or find the key if you changed it and wrote it down.

2. Open your Internet browser and enter the IP address for each device. You may need to contact your ISP or device manufacturer for the appropriate log-in information. Enter your user name and password. Click "Wireless Settings" and locate the WEP or WPA key. Confirm that the key is entered correctly on each device and on your computer.

3. Confirm the service set identifier (SSID). If you are working with a laptop, you may have connected to another network and forgot to reset to your network. Right-click the network icon in the system tray and click "View Available Wireless Networks." Click your network's name and then click the "Connect" button.

Tips & Warnings

• If your modem continues to have connectivity issues, contact the manufacturer or your ISP and request an upgrade. Make sure the upgrade is compatible with each of your devices.

References

• Windows Networking: Troubleshooting Wireless Network Connections
• Microsoft Support: How to Troubleshoot Wireless Network Connections in Windows XP Service Pack 2
• TechRepublic: How to Troubleshoot Your Wireless Network