It can be very frustrating when you can’t access your high speed internet due to WiFi issues. A bad WiFi connection can be caused by various issues, but luckily there are several easy tricks you can try to fix connection issues. Below we have put together a quick guide to get your devices connected to your internet without the hassle.
Step 1: Is the problem being caused by your device or your router?
The first thing you should figure out if you are having trouble with your WiFi is determine whether the issue is due to your device (iPhone, tablet, computer, etc.) or the router itself. An easy way to troubleshoot this is to try connecting to your WiFi network with another device. If both devices are having connection issues, then it is likely your router is causing the problem. If only one of your devices is having issues, then it is likely that specific device.
If you suspect it is your device: The easiest way to fix your device not connecting to your WiFi is to try restarting your phone or computer. This allows your operating system to reset and can potentially un-freeze any issues preventing you from reconnecting.
If this doesn’t work, try forgetting the WiFi network on your device that is causing you trouble and then reconnect. Be sure to have your password handy as it will be the same as connecting to the internet network for the first time.
If you are still having issues connecting, it doesn’t hurt to inspect your WiFi router as well. Read on for more tips!
If you suspect it is your router: The first thing you should do when inspecting your WiFi router is to examine the indicators on the faceplate. Many routers display lights to indicate the operating status of various functions. Generally, they include:
-Wifi symbol: When green or blinking this indicates WiFi is being broadcast without an issue.
-Ethernet symbol: When green or blinking this indicates the router is properly connected.
-Globe symbol: When green or blinking this indicates the router is receiving an internet signal.
If for whatever reason the lights on your modem are red or not lit up it is an indication of what may be causing your internet connection problem. It is also important to note that not every router display is made the same, so be sure to refer to your specific router manual for more detailed information.
The next thing you should try is unplugging your router from the wall, allowing it to sit unpowered for roughly 30 seconds, and then plugging it back in. Allowing your router to reset in this way can often times fix your WiFi issues. Allow the router roughly five minutes after being plugged back in before retrying to connect your device.
Other considerations when troubleshooting WiFi
In most cases the tips above will allow you to pinpoint the issue with your WiFi network as well as fix the problem. However there are other things to consider, especially if the above techniques did not work.
-Where you place your WiFi router matters. Your router sends out a 360 degree signal with the strongest point closest to the device that weakens as you move away. It is best to place your router in a central location in your home to ensure equal coverage. It is also important to limit as many obstacles as possible, this can range from physical objects such as brick walls or furniture to appliances that cause interference such as microwaves.
If you have found the best location for your router but are still getting bad internet signal in certain rooms, you may want to consider investing in a WiFi extender. This device boosts your WiFi signal in areas further from your router, allowing you to blanket your home with a strong internet signal.
-Try testing the speed of your internet. Smart Connection offers a free internet speed test tool that allows you to measure how your internet is performing. This allows you to get detailed data that can help you pinpoint any issues.
-Check for internet provider outages. Sometimes your internet not working is not due to any internet equipment in your home but rather network outages. Most service providers offer detailed maps that will indicate if this is the case.
-If all else fails, call your internet provider’s tech support. After trying the solutions above, if your WiFi is still not working it may be best to call your internet company directly. Below we have listed the tech support numbers of popular providers.
• XFINITY tech support: (800) 934-6489
• AT&T tech support: (800) 288-2020
• CenturyLink tech support: (888) 723-8010
• Verizon Fios tech support: (800) 837-4966
• Spectrum tech support: (855) 757-7328
• Cox tech support: (800) 234-3993
• Frontier tech support: (888) 884-0504
• WOW! tech support: (855) 496-9929• HughesNet Satellite Internet tech support: (866) 347-3292
If you don’t see your provider, try searching our customer service database of top providers here.
