Network Troubleshooting Guide

No Internet Access

If you cannot access any websites:

• Check your Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection status.
• Ensure your router and modem are powered on and their indicator lights are normal.
• Try restarting your router and modem (unplug power, wait 30 seconds, plug back in).
• Verify that other devices on the same network can access the internet.

Slow Internet Speed

If your internet is unusually slow:

• Run a speed test (e.g., Speedtest.net, Fast.com).
• Check if multiple devices are using the network heavily.
• Restart your router and modem.
• Consider Wi-Fi signal strength; move closer to the router or use a wired connection if possible.

Intermittent Connectivity

If your connection drops in and out:

• Check for loose cable connections (Ethernet).
• Inspect your router for overheating.
• Ensure your router's firmware is up to date.
• Consider potential Wi-Fi interference from other devices (microwaves, cordless phones, neighboring Wi-Fi networks).

Pinging a Host

Use the ping command to check connectivity to a specific IP address or hostname.

Windows: Open Command Prompt and type:

macOS/Linux: Open Terminal and type:

Look for replies. High latency or packet loss indicates a problem.

Checking IP Address and Gateway

Verify your device has a valid IP address and is connected to the correct network.

Windows: Open Command Prompt and type:

macOS: Open Terminal and type:

Linux: Open Terminal and type:

Ensure the IP address is in your local subnet and the default gateway is correct.

Traceroute (or Tracert)

This command shows the path packets take to reach a destination, identifying where delays or failures might occur.

Windows: Open Command Prompt and type:

macOS/Linux: Open Terminal and type:

Look for timeouts or excessive delays on specific hops.

DNS Resolution

Ensure your device can resolve domain names to IP addresses.

Windows: Open Command Prompt and type:

macOS/Linux: Open Terminal and type:

If nslookup or dig fails, there might be a DNS server issue.

Clearing DNS Cache

Sometimes, a corrupted DNS cache can cause issues.

Windows: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and type:

macOS: Open Terminal and type:

Linux: Commands vary by distribution, but often involve restarting the nscd or systemd-resolved service.

Resetting Network Settings

This can resolve software-related network configuration problems.

Windows: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.

macOS: This often involves deleting and re-adding network interfaces in System Preferences > Network.

iOS/Android: Look for "Reset Network Settings" in the device's settings.

Checking Firewall and Antivirus

Firewall or antivirus software can sometimes block network traffic unintentionally.

• Temporarily disable your firewall and antivirus to see if the issue is resolved.
• If disabling them fixes the problem, investigate their settings to allow necessary network access.