Troubleshooting Wireless Networking on a Laptop
- 1). Turn off all computers connected to the network as well as the router and modem. Unplug the router and the modem.
- 2). Check the wires and connections to the modem to ensure tightness. Do the same for the router.
- 3). Plug the modem back into the electrical outlet. Wait for the modem to receive access. A instruction manual and/or your Internet service provider can help you confirm that your modem is connected, if you are uncertain.
- 4). Plug in the router and turn it on. Wait for the signal to reach the router. Consult the instruction booklet, if you have any questions about your router.
- 5). Turn on the computer and wait for it to load. Then check the status of your connection by scrolling over the icon that resembles a computer in the bottom-right corner of the desktop. The Internet status should be at least three bars, have access listed as Local and Internet and be connected to your connection.
- 6). Check your drivers. Click on "Start," then "Control Panel." Select "Hardware and Sound." For Vista and 7 users, click on "Device Manager." For computers with Windows XP, choose "Performance and Maintenance," then the "Hardware" tab. Click on "Device Manager." Users of all three operating systems can then click the plus sign next to "Network Adapters." Look for a red "X" or yellow "exclamation point." If you have either, click the "Update Driver" button. Vista users must exit the window and select "Update drivers" from the Control Panel window under Device Manager.
- 7). Repeat the steps if you still cannot connect (excluding the drivers updating process). Wait for each piece of equipment to connect before turning on the next.
- 8). Isolate the equipment, if you continue to have trouble. This helps you determine which piece of equipment causes the connection failure. Try assessing the Internet with another wireless connection. Successful access indicates that the problem lies with either the modem or router.
- 9). Bypass the router by joining the modem and the computer with an Ethernet cord. Replace the router if you successfully connect to the Internet. If neither the router nor the computer causes the connection failure, call your Internet service provider to make sure everything is running smoothly on their end.