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#0038 Troubleshooting Internet Connectivity
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These are some lists of he things you can check if your Internet is down. Given the
infinite number of hardware and software configurations, it's impossible to list
everything. I recommend starting with the modem first and methodically working your
way to the computer. One of these items is likely your problem. I have encountered
ALL of these issues at one time or another.
Local Premises Issues
- Power surges can harm equipment (A UPS is recommended for all computer equipment).
- Modem settings or modem failure (Some equipment will have a log telling you what happened.)
- Router settings or router failure (Some equipment will have a log telling you what happened.)
- Bad Ethernet lines; especially homemade cables (Try other cables.)
- Network switch issues (Try different ports or a different switch.)
- Network card settings or card failure, cards loose in the PCI slot, or a bad PCI slot.
- Loose connections (Unplug both ends of the cables and plug it back in.)
- Bad ethernet ports on the computer, switch, router, or modem. (Try different ports.)
- Pinched or damaged ethernet cables (Use an Ethernet cable tester on all lines.)
- Ethernet cable interference with electrical lines or fluorescent lights etc.
- Check the AC adapters to your devices. These can go bad or under-power the device.
DNS Issues
- DNS Misconfiguration on network card
- DNS Misconfiguration on router
- DNS Server down
Home computers normally use the the DNS address configured within your
router's DHCP screen.
Business computers with a DNS server should be normally pointed to the address of
that server. This is configured by your network administrator.
If you like, you can try one of the recommended DNS servers in Blog Post
#39.
Internet Service Provider Issues
These items are out of your control. All you can do is call the company and have them troubleshoot the issue. Some providers are better than others.- Equipment failure
- Line failure
- Weak signal or hot signal (Cable Internet)
- Mis-aligned fiber splice (Fiber Internet)
Use Net Uptime Monitor (NUM) to log the downtime. This will give you a report that provides proof to show your internet service provider. (Especially if they claim there is no issue or it isn't happening when they come on-site.)
