Fixing Wireless Internet Connections - Troubleshooting Modems, Routers, and Adapters

Connecting wirelessly to the internet can be great. Wireless connections can be picked up just about anywhere, making surfing the web and getting important work done a breeze. But when your wireless internet connection fails it can be frustrating and downright annoying. If you can't connect to the internet wirelessly or pick up a clear signal with your adapter here are some tips you may find helpful.

*You may want to print this article for future reference when unable to connect to the internet wirelessly.

Check Your Internet Connections

The first thing you should do when having wireless connection problems is to check your connections. Do this to make sure there is not a problem actually receiving the internet. Begin with the modem. The modem is a black or grey box your internet service provider (ISP) gives you that allows you to connect to the internet. Are all of the proper lights on? Are any of the lights flashing or off that shouldn't be? If the answers to these questions are no, then go on to check your router.

If yes, you may need to reset your modem. The best way to reset your modem is to press the reset button, usually requiring the use of a pen point or paperclip. The reset button for most modems is generally located on the back of the modem near the power cord. Hold down the reset button until the modem shuts off and then powers back on. If your modem is still not working properly after resetting you will need to unplug the power for 30-60 seconds. Don't just disconnect the power cord from the back of the modem. You actually need to unplug the cord from the outlet. If your modem still has no connectivity after resetting the power you need to contact your ISP.

Check Your Router and Wireless Adapter

If you cannot pick up a clear signal, or no signal at all, either your router or wireless internet adapter may not be functioning properly. By using the Windows Device Manager you will be able to find out if your hardware is working normally. Open the Device Manager and click on your router or wireless adapter. If the hardware is working, the bottom of the box should read, "device is working properly" or "device is operating normally". If your hardware is in working order go on to the section covering weak signal strength.

If either device is not working properly you may need to reinstall or update the software. Use the disc provided with the hardware when you bought it to reboot the software. Simply insert the disc and follow the instructions on your screen. If reinstalling the software does not work you may need to uninstall and reinstall the entire device. To uninstall go to the Windows Program Manager (Add or Remove Programs) and click uninstall. Uninstall may take just a few moments to several minutes. When the uninstall is complete unplug your router/adapter from the computer making sure it is completely disconnected. When finished reinstall the hardware as if it were new.

Weak Signal Strength

Once you've checked all of your connections, router, and wireless internet adapter you may still have a weak or limited signal. There are lots of things that can cause your wireless internet connection to be weak or unable to connect. First, move your router and adapter to a centrally located area away from appliances that may cause interference. Microwaves, cell phones, and some other household items can cause interference.

Next, place your wireless adapter in an area where the signal is free to travel in any direction. Point any and all antennas outward and upward. The closer your wireless adapter is to your router the better the signal will be. Walls and floors can block and weaken your wireless internet connection. It is best to use your wireless adapter in the same room as your router.

Change the Frequency

If you are still having problems connecting or staying connected wirelessly to the internet you may find it helpful to change the frequency of your adapter. Sometimes, this is the only solution need to fix wireless internet connections. Most wireless adapters can support several frequencies and by changing the channel you may be able to pick up a better signal. By changing the frequency you may also limit interference from other wireless networks or adapters located near by.

Check Your Security & Firewalls

Recent changes to security functions on your computer may automatically disable or block your wireless internet adapter or router. Open your security program or the Windows Firewall and enable/allow usage of your wireless devices.

Upgrade Your Hardware

If you are still having problems it may be time for an upgrade. Even if you are not experiencing connectivity problems you may want to consider upgrading to a newer router or adapter anyway. Although your older hardware may work just fine newer adapters and routers are faster and experience less connectivity problems. If you want to increase the speed of your wireless internet connection consider buying a USB network adapter, which works much better than ethernet cable. Good luck!