The Great Power Cycle
There are a number of simple tricks that make computing much easier. Regretably, a large number of these tricks are not understood by casual computer users. For example: losing connection to a wireless router is a basic problem with a simple fix many users do not know about that (while not 100% effective in every scenario) frequently resolves the underlying problem.
When you lose connectivity to your wireless router, power cycling the modem and router will frequently solve the issue. Many people do not know how to perform this very simple task. Unfortunately, just about every router and modem will require the occasional power cycle. These devices run all the time and will periodically encounter conflicts that can be handled with a fresh restart.
If you try to resolve the problem by calling for support, you’ll probably experience the following: aAfter spending an hour on hold with the internet service provider, you will be lead through a series of unnecessary steps to rule out uncommon problems. Since most of these issues can be quickly resolved by power cycling, it makes sense to learn this technique before calling up tech support.
To power cycle your modem and router, just unplug both devices. That’s it. If your modem has a battery, reset it after you’ve unplugged the router. While each device is somewhat different, you should wait an average of two minutes before powering up both devices. If either unit feels extraordinarily hot, you may want to wait until they reach a cooler temperature as well.
Once this time has passed, plug in your modem. Permit your modem to completely boot and conenct back up to the internet. After it’s fully operational, plug in your wireless router. Once your router is also online, try to connect your computers to the network.
It can sometimes also be helpful to reboot your computers before connecting them to the router. This will allow them to connect to the network with a fresh IP address. IP address conflicts are a frequent cause for network connectivity problems.
It’s unfortunate that modems and routers are not made with a technical mechanism that can re this issue for novice users. Since it’s such a common and needed practice, it really should be clearly indicated to every user as part of proper network maintenance. If internet service providers offered instructions on power cycling to each new customer, it would likely save significant tech support costs. Countless hours of technical support service are wasted on a procedure that will be necessary for nearly every user. In fact, this is something that most people will have to do very often and may make multiple calls for.
As this issue affects both the modem and router, it’s complicated to create the type of uniform process that would be needed for a purely technical solution. However, it’s entirely possible to enable even the casual user to solve this problem with consistency. User education is the only realistic solution. While it certianly isn’t the biggest challenge facing humanity, everyone stands to gain from solving this communication issue. Routers and modems need frequent power cycling, and users and tech support alike will be happier and more productive if consumers learn how to do it on their own.
Geek Choice understands the frustration that many users feel when their wireless networks have connectivity issues. As a nationwide computer repair company, we work hard to help our customers solve their technical problems. If you are having trouble with your network, call a customer service representative at 1-800-GEEK HELP (433-5435). Geek Choice offers on-site service for all of your computer issues.
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