There are several common issues that can cause a loss of connectivity, or general problems with Internet access. While you may not be technologically savvy enough to solve these problems on your own, being familiar with them can help you when it comes time to troubleshoot, and may save you some money in the long run. In some cases, simple fixes are all that are needed to resolve the problem, so do not waste money on technical help you do not need.
The most common connectivity problem has to do with the computer, not the modem or connection. Many times, the browser cache gets full and too many cookies clog the system. This is very easy to solve: Simply go into the browser and look for the Options. In that area, you should find the option to clear cache and cookies. Once you have done this, you will probably have to sign back in to your favorite sites, but there are ways to save specific cookies if you choose to do so. Some browsers even make this easy by asking if you want to clear all cookies or save those you use most frequently. Third-party programs can also be used to clear the browser cache.
Another easy fix is recycling the modem. Like the browser, most high speed modems have a cache on them that can get overwhelmed. Unplug the modem from the wall and wait one full minute before plugging it back in. Wait until all the lights have returned before attempting to surf the Internet. Sometimes, you will need to reboot the computer to complete the process. This is known as recycling the modem and is one of the first steps a customer service representative will walk you through if you call.
A bit more complicated a problem is when your NIC, or Network Interface Card, goes bad. The NIC is the card into which you plug the CAT-45 cable that comes from your high speed modem. Most of them have a green, orange, or yellow light near this connection. If this light is out, the NIC is bad. Sometimes, the light may seem fine but the NIC is still bad - in these cases, you may be able to troubleshoot the NIC through the Control Panel, or you may have to take it in to a specialist who can test the card directly on a bench. Replacing the network card is simple and usually inexpensive. The card costs between $20 and $50.00 and all you have to do to replace it is remove the old one and pop the new one into its old slot. You can have someone else do this for you, but it will cost. Once the card is in place, you may need to install software and drivers, but many network cards are "plug and play," meaning the computer will look for the drivers to install on its own.
While there are more complicated issues that can affect Internet connectivity, these are the most common problems most computer users will face. If you have followed these steps and still cannot connect, it may be time to take your computer to a specialist for a check-up.
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