Troubleshooting Common Connection Errors on Your Computer
There’s no hiding from virtual meetings. In today’s new normal, teleworking has millions of people flocking to the same sites in hopes of smoothly navigating the online interface.
But internet connection errors often have other plans. When you’re locked out of WiFi, the frustration that follows knows no bounds.
Here are some troubleshooting options to help you fix connection errors that arise during the workday.
Common Internet Connection Errors
Everyone knows a dropped WiFi connection is as commonplace as breathing. One minute you could be streaming your favorite show and the next, the internet tells you you aren’t connected.
But just because this is common doesn’t mean it’s ok. Having a few tricks up your sleeve to get back online is important because it can keep you from a crisis like when you’re in the middle of a critical virtual meeting.
You might be able to live through ‘your connection is not private error,’ but there are some issues that ban your internet use altogether. Here are the first things to check when trying to fix your Wifi connection.
Is the Computer in Airplane mode?
One of the gifts of modern technology is the ability to use your device while on an airplane. FAA regulations require all passengers to turn off their devices to avoid potential interference with communication in the cockpit.
This is an amazing tool to have, but the accidental clicking of Airplane mode on laptop computers is one of the leading sources of confusion when a person can’t get online.
It’s an easy fix, but sometimes only after you’ve spent an hour installing the new operating system update for fear your device is glitching. Check whether your computer is in Airplane mode first to get this step out of the way.
If it’s on, just turn it off so the emblem isn’t highlighted which enables your internet connection to return.
Is the WiFi On?
The next thing to check is whether or not your WiFi is on. This seems like an obvious question but stranger things have happened in the world of troubleshooting.
Sometimes the WiFi might be disabled because of a bug. If you didn’t make the change yourself, you won’t think to check that it’s on.
Are You on the Correct Network?
Another annoying feature that can sabotage your online experience is allowing your computer to check for nearby networks. While this is helpful in allowing you to locate WiFi quickly, it’s a pain when the connection is weak.
The internet will keep searching for better connections that can remove you from your current network. Take off the ‘search for nearby networks’ feature on your WiFi settings so your computer stays on one WiFi for your entire sitting.
When you venture far away from your desk, you won’t be kicked off the company WiFi while your computer searches for a faster, better connection.
Troubleshooting Connection Errors
The first thing to look for when testing out your internet connection is why the network isn’t working. You can do this by clicking the information icon on your WiFi network.
It’ll tell you whether there are specific errors on your network. There may be an issue that’s not related to your computer at all.
For example, the router might be having technical issues. Here are some steps to take to restart your router and other issues.
Router Troubleshooting
First, unplug your router. Count to 15 slowly. Next, restart your computer.
Once the computer is fully restarted, turn back on the router. Some devices require that you re-enter router information to get your connection setup again.
This might seem like a waste of time, but it’s actually a great sign. Your computer is starting fresh with the router so that means any errors you’ve seen in the past are erased.
Your internet connection errors should be gone at this point. If they’re not, there might be an ongoing problem with your router.
Contact your internet service provider for more information on performing a hard reset on your device. They can usually do this for you remotely and only ask that you monitor the device while the reset is in motion.
Slow Internet
Another common issue with WiFi connections is speed. You’ll notice at times that your internet seems to run slowly no matter what browser you use.
You can get around this by restarting your computer in many cases or clearing your browser cache. But when these don’t work, you can visit speedtest.net and run a diagnostic on your internet connection.
The internet connection speed can tell you whether your connection is way off or not. Compare the speed to your WiFi plan.
High-speed internet connections vary based on the type of connection you have, but they should never be close to zero. If you notice unreasonably low internet speeds, the issue is likely with the internet service provider.
Call a technician to come out and service the problem right away before the issue escalates.
Frequency Issues
When you connect to a WiFi network for the first time, you might get a connection error that you can’t connect because of the GHz on the computer. Networks have a minimum number of GHz required for each internet connection.
If your computer falls short of this minimum amount, you won’t be able to use that internet connection at all.
Troubleshooting Bad Internet Connections
Bad internet connections do happen. If you’ve eliminated the possibility of user error, the issue is probably with the network itself.
Do everything you can before calling in reinforcements. Technicians sometimes charge a service fee which is a waste if all you needed to do was turn off Airplane mode.
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