Wireless (Wifi) Troubleshooting:

Wireless technology is available in most devices now from laptops to televisions. At times you may experience some problems with these types of connections. This is a quick reference guide to help you rule out some possible problems and correct others.

Wireless connections work over a short-range radio spectrum and broadcast your data via radio waves from your device to your wireless access point. The typical wireless access point is a router connected to your high-speed connection's modem or it might even be built into the modem itself..

This access point should be located somewhere close to the center of the area you wish to use your wireless connection for best performance. The further you move away from this device the weaker the signal will become. If possible the device should also be located above your intended usage area as well to help disperse the signal..

For most homes, having the wireless access point near your modem will work just fine, but there are other things to consider as well.. For best access, make sure your wireless access point is not near any large appliances or electronics, microwave ovens, cordless phone receivers or AM/FM radios. While all these products are designed to not interfere with each other some issues can still be present that will disrupt your wireless signal.

If your wireless connection is still not connecting or behaving slowly, try these next steps:

1. Make sure you are attempting to connect to your own network. Most wireless devices have very good antennas and you may unwittingly be seeing your neighbor's connection and trying to use it. Each network has a name or SSID. Some, by default, are named the same thing out of the box. It is a good idea to change this to something you recognize easier, like your pet's name or favorite sports team.
   
   
2. Make sure the wireless option is enabled on your device. To save battery most portable devices and laptops allow you to turn off your wireless option. Make sure this is enabled. On laptops this will either be a switch located on the front edge or side or it could be a Function button combination on your keyboard. Your laptop's manual or manufacturer's tech support website should explain this further for you.
   
   
3. Make sure you are close enough to your device. As discussed previously many factors can play into the intensity and consistency of your wireless signal. When in doubt, move closer and closer to the wireless access point and keep trying. If you realize your connection only works within 10 feet or so of the access point, the unit may be in a bad location and would need to be moved.
   
   
4. If none of this has worked for you, try to restart your device and your wireless access point. Something may be locked up or frozen in the devices and not allowing the connection to be made.

As always if you are still having trouble, please contact us for further assistance. You can reach us 24 hours a day by clicking here.