This wikiHow teaches you how to fix Internet-related problems. Although some network problems can only be handled by an internet service provider or ISP (internet service provider), you can still take steps to solve mild to moderate network problems at home.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Performing a Simple Repair
Step 1. Restart the computer
This may seem trivial, but it can often solve almost any problem you're having. Restarting your computer will clear up any bad settings that could be causing problems with your internet connection. And if it doesn't work, it only takes a minute.
By restarting the computer, the previously dead internet adapter can be restarted
Step 2. Check if the laptop's wireless adapter is active
Many laptops have a button to turn the wireless adapter on and off. If you have pressed the button accidentally, the computer's connection to the network will be lost. Press the switch or button to turn the wireless adapter back on.
- You may have to hold down the Fn key before you can press the Wi-Fi button.
- If using a desktop computer, skip this step.
Step 3. Restart the modem and internet router
How to do it is very easy. Unplug the modem and router from the power source, wait for a few seconds, then plug them back into the power source. Like when restarting your computer, this can solve a variety of minor internet-related problems.
Step 4. Perform a soft reset of the network
With a soft reset, the router and modem will clear the cache and perform a refresh. To perform a soft reset, press the power button located on the side or front of the router.
- This soft reset method can also be applied to many modems.
- Sometimes, you can perform a soft reset of the network by going to the router's page and clicking the button Reset in the "Power" or "Advanced" option.
Step 5. Perform a hard reset on the network
With a hard reset, the router and modem will clear all settings, then restore the network to factory settings (including the network name and password from the factory). To do this, press and hold the "reset" button located on the back of the modem for about 30 seconds, allow the modem to reboot, and perform the same steps as on the router.
Usually, the "reset" button is hidden on the back of the modem and router. So you'll need to use a paperclip or a pen (or something similar) to press the button
Step 6. Move the device closer to the router
Smartphones or computers are sometimes in places that are too far from the network coverage. Move the device closer to the router and try reconnecting it.
Step 7. Make sure you have an unobstructed line of sight between the device and the router
If there is a barrier between the internet-connected device and the router, e.g. walls, furniture, appliances, and other similar objects, your internet connection will likely deteriorate.
The best way to get a good and consistent Internet connection is to minimize the number of obstructions between the device and the router/modem
Step 8. Try using ethernet
By connecting your computer or device to your router or modem using an ethernet cable, your internet speed will increase and can help you identify problems with your internet network or device.
- If your computer is able to connect to the internet when you directly connect it to your router, it's likely that your computer's wireless reception is having problems.
- If your computer is able to connect to the internet when you directly connect it to your modem, then your router may have a problem.
- If your computer can't connect to the internet when you directly connect it to the modem, there's a problem with the modem or internet service in general. Contact your internet service provider for modem-related issues.
Method 2 of 2: Performing Advanced Repair
Step 1. Clear the computer's DNS cache
The DNS cache is responsible for recording the addresses of the sites you visit so that you can access the same sites more quickly at a later time. However, when the site updates its address, the DNS cache becomes obsolete and can cause errors.
- Cleaning the DNS cache can solve some problems such as failure to load sites, especially when you can see a site in one browser (browser), but can't do it in another.
- To clear the DNS cache on a mobile device such as a tablet or smartphone, restart the device.
Step 2. Clear browser cache
Just like DNS cache, browser cache can speed up access to sites you've visited. However, it can also cause errors if the cache database is outdated.
To keep the database up to date, clear the browser cache once a month
Step 3. Try another site or program
It is possible that the site you are visiting is down, or that the program you are using is having server problems. Try another online site or program to see if you can connect to the internet.
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If possible, try a different browser. For example, you might have problems using Chrome, but you can run Firefox just fine. If your web browser is having problems, read the following articles for instructions on how to fix them:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Internet Explorer
Step 4. Fix the connection
Perhaps the computer is experiencing a software issue that is interfering with its connection. Mac and Windows computers have built-in repair tools that can be used to solve this problem:
- Windows - Press Win+R key > type ncpa.cpl > click OK > right click network adapter > select Diagnosis > follow the instructions given on the screen.
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Mac - Click the Apple menu
Macapple1 click System Preferences… > click Network > select Help Me… > click Diagnostics > follow the instructions given on the screen.
Step 5. Boost Wi-Fi signal
If the problem experienced is related to the signal, usually the main cause is distance and interference. You can do several things to minimize interference and increase network coverage:
- Expand the network by adding a second router.
- Improve Wi-Fi reception on the computer.
- Make your own "cantenna" (antenna from a can) for the wireless adapter.
Step 6. Perform a virus and malware scan (software created to damage the system)
Viruses and other malicious computer infections can interfere with a computer's ability to go online. You can remove the virus using an antivirus program.
Step 7. Contact your internet service provider
This is the last resort you can do if all else doesn't work. Explain to your internet service provider the problem you're having, then ask them to come over to your house to investigate the problem.
