Wireless Connectivity

One common problem for home computer users is either losing a wireless connection repeatedly or getting informed that the connection has “limited connectivity.”  

Sometimes, it appears the connection is appearing to work non-stop to re-establish itself but ultimately it fails. Rebooting may restore the connection temporarily, but often it will be lost once again in five or 10 minutes. And sometimes the wireless connection can work for hours without these kinds of problems. Then problems start all over again.

This issue was recently presented to a tech writer for the Houston Chronicle. In response, he answered that “The most common cause of wireless connectivity issues are weak wireless signals or interference. Longer distances between the laptop and the access point or obstructions like metal piping in the walls can reduce the signal strength.”

One answer may be to move the wireless access point to a part of the house which is more centrally located or somewhere that is less obstructed – especially if the connection gets lost when further away from the wireless access point.

Hardware may be the problem – especially if distance does not impact the connectivity. One option is to install new network/wireless drivers. If that doesn’t work, users can also try to update firmware on a wireless access point. If neither of these work, a new USB wireless adapter (with the Wireless N standard) may be the answer.

The author warns that even a new computer may be needed. But be sure to wait on this because that could be a very expensive way to improve the situation.

George Otte, CEO and founder of Geeks on Site, lists some relatively simple solutions to this problem in a recent interview. First, make sure modem and router are plugged in and are getting sufficient electrical power and a phone line signal.

A second step is to make sure the router’s wireless feature is working. Try restarting it, if it isn’t working.

Another thing to do is see whether or not the wireless feature has been disabled on accident. “To see if the problem lies from the source of the connection, you should proceed by plugging the Ethernet cable into the router and the router to your computer,” Otte said. “If you can access the Internet then it’s likely your router has lost its configuration but the modem is fine. You can attempt to fix this by typing the standard IP address ‘192.168.1.1’ in your Internet browser’s address box.”

Still another step involves the wireless router configuration options. Check to see if the transmission of the signal is disabled.

Like with many devices, there are risks from interference from other devices. In fact, even simple household items such as cordless phones or microwaves may interrupt signals. So be sure to relocate these devices as far away as possible from your modem/router to give yourself peace of mind that this couldn’t possibly be the reason for your disconnections.

At times, the computer itself may be the reason for the connection problems. A simple test involves checking the device to access the wireless connection. Try connecting to the network via another device. If it turns out to be the computer and it can’t be fixed economically, remember to purchase a new model with the latest technology to avoid similar problems.

After all, no connection keeps even the fanciest computer from accessing the Web.

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