Overcoming Wireless Broadband Problems with Your Netbook
Wireless broadband (also known as WLAN) can work for months and suddenly stop working, but before you throw your netbook in the bin, try these simple steps first:
Turn it off, turn it on
First, save your work and turn your computer off. If you have access to the wireless router and/or broadband modem, turn them off as well. Then turn them back on one at a time, starting with the modem, then router and finally the netbook. You would be surprised how often this works.
Are you well connected?
Next, check for loose connections. If you are using USB or a PCMCIA wireless LAN card (in an older laptop or desktop computer) ensure that it is pushed all the way in. If you have an external Mobile Broadband modem (dongle), make sure that the SIM is fitted properly, that it is seated in the USB port correctly and that the USB part is not bent – easy to do if your USB port is at the back.
Can Windows help?
The next thing to check is “My Network Places” in Windows. Depending on your version, you may have to access this from the System Tray (Vista, Windows 7) or the Start Menu (XP) or from any version by using the Control Panel. Can you see any new network icons? Quite often, your wireless card will find another network with a stronger signal and if it isn’t secured, connect to that instead. If there are any unfamiliar networks listed, just delete them and double click on your own network to reconnect.
Move closer
Try taking your netbook closer to your router, and if it improves, the problem is probably due to interference from another device. Make sure the microfilters are in place on an ADSL network, and try eliminating any equipment that uses radio waves like a mobile or cordless phone, an X-box or Kindle. Try switching each one off until you find the source.
Reset it and forget it
As a last resort try resetting the wireless router to its original factory settings by using the reset switch on the back (you might need a pointed object like a ball point pen to do this) or by logging into the router’s control panel from a web browser – try the default IP address (192.168.1.1) to access it – and restoring the factory settings from there.
If you are still not having any success you may have a hardware failure and will need to unplug each component of your wireless network in turn to find the culprit. If you can’t find it then, try calling the manufacturer or visit their website. Many will have an FAQ page when you can find troubleshooting advice.
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