Common Wireless Connection Errors

Are you frustrated by wireless connection errors? While some wireless connection errors originate on your Internet service provider's end, others start at home. Before you begin troubleshooting in earnest, check these three common Wi-Fi connection problems:

• Check the wireless adapter's on/off switch. You'd be surprised how often that tiny little on/off switch gets bumped and jostled while working with a laptop on your lap. It doesn't take much to bump the switch from on to off. If you have toddlers, your little one may have discovered the switch and enjoy flipping it on and off.

• Check the wireless adapter's power management settings. Many wireless network adapters are set to turn off the adapter in order to conserve energy. If you notice that your computer disconnects from the Internet after a period of inactivity, such as if you step away for an hour or so, it's likely that your computer's wireless power management setting is to blame. This is relatively easy to adjust. Go to Start > Control Panel > Device Manager and click on the Network Adapters category. Find your wireless network adapter in the list and double-click it. Click the Power Management tab and make sure that there is no checkmark in the box that says "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power."

• Reboot the wireless router. Another common wireless connection problem originates from within the wireless router. Sometimes all that's needed is a simple reboot, especially if the router has been on for extended periods. This doesn't mean you need to reboot your entire system, though that won't hurt. Start by unplugging the router, waiting a few seconds, and then plugging it back in.

These are but a small taste of the many wireless connection errors that could be affecting your computer. Whether you live in an area where the Internet is notoriously unreliable or have recently noticed that your computer keeps disconnecting, it's smart to keep these three thoughts in mind. By checking the wireless adapter's on/off switch, checking the wireless adapter's power management settings, and rebooting the wireless router, you may solve the connection error. If not, at least you've ruled out these issues before you begin troubleshooting the wireless connection errors in greater detail.