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Troubleshooting a Home Network

Last Updated: Tue, 20 Nov 2012 > Related Articles

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Summary

Are you having trouble connecting to the Internet through a network in your home? Try these tips to troubleshoot Internet connection problems on a wired or wireless home network.

Solution

Learn about basic home networking troubleshooting information, tips and helpful links to related information.

Check Your Network Connections

Make sure your cable connections are set up correctly.

Refer to the article: Connect a Router, Cable Modem, and Primary Computer

If you are running a firewall software program, temporarily disable it during the router's setup.

  • Wired connections to the router: If you are connecting through a wired network, make sure the computer connects into the router. The computer's Ethernet port should connect to one of the numbered ports on the router (1, 2, 3, or 4). Use a standard Ethernet cable (straight-through not crossover cable).
  • Wireless connections to the router: If you are connecting through a wireless network, make sure the Wireless USB adapter is not loose where it connects into your computer. Additionally, you need to install the adapter's software (drivers) before using it. If you are connecting through a built-in wireless adapter, verify that it is on and enabled.

If your network is properly set up, you will want to check for loose or damaged Internet wiring.

Restart Your Equipment

Follow the actions below to complete the power cycle process.

  1. Turn off your computer.
  2. Unplug the power to your router.
  3. Unplug the power to your Modem.
  4. Wait 30 seconds.
  5. Plug the power back in on your modem and wait 30 seconds before continuing to the next step.
  6. Plug the power back in on your router and wait 30 seconds before continuing to the next step.
  7. Turn the power back on for your computer. 

 After rebooting, try connecting to the Internet.

Check Your Internet Browser Settings

Follow the actions below to ensure your Internet browser settings are set up properly.

  • Open your Internet browser.
  • Click on the Tools menu at the top of the window.
  • Select Internet Options.
  • Click on the Connections tab at the top of the window.
  • Make sure the Never dial a connection setting is selected.
  • Click on the LAN settings button.
  • Make sure the “Automatically detect settings” checkbox is not selected.
  • Close your Internet Options window.

After verifying your browser settings, check for an Internet connection. If you are still unable to access the Internet ensure your cable modem has connected to the Cox Network in accordance with your modem user manual. See Cox Compatible Cable Modems for links to Modem Troubleshooting. 

View Manufacturer Troubleshooting Support

For additional troubleshooting support or information on your home networking equipment, visit the manufacturers' pages below. 

ManufacturerWebsite
D-Linkhttp://support.dlink.com
Linksys (Cisco)http://homesupport.cisco.com/en-us/support
Netgearhttp://support.netgear.com/
 

Troubleshooting Issues Connections

ScenariosSteps
USB adapter will not install

When installing the Wireless USB adapter:

  • Do not plug the adapter into your computer until after you insert the installation CD and start the installation process. 
  • After the software (drivers) install, plug the adapter into your USB slot on your computer to complete the set up process.
Increasing wireless network range

Range is often dependent on environment:

  • Place the wireless router or access point up high and as close to the center of the home as possible. You may also adjust the angles of the antennas. This will maximize the range and signal strength in your wireless network.
  • Cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, baby monitors, and microwave ovens can all affect the signal strength and range of your wireless router. When possible, place the router away from these types of devices.
  • If you experience signal interference, go to the router's setup page and change the channel to 1 or 11 (they are usually on channel 6 by default). For more information on how to change your router’s channel settings, please refer to the router's manufacturer website or user manual. 
Connect gaming systems to networkFor help connecting a gaming console to the Cox High Speed Network see the article titled: Gaming Consoles With Cox High Speed Internet

 


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