Wireless Network Problems

The networking problems that occur in any wireless network, may be specific to wireless connectivity or may occur in a network with cables as well. The problems that occur because of reasons like wrong adapter installation, may happen in any type of network. But the ones which are caused by low signal strength are generally specific to wireless networks.

You are likely to be aware of this problem only if you have an access to the wireless router. The basic reason for this problem is that, the power cords to the DSL modem or router have not been plugged in properly.

Although, it is not one of the hardest problems to solve, it can take a toll on your time. You can spend a lot of time going through your network settings and end up nowhere.

Troubleshooting Procedure
All you need to do is, connect the power cable of the DSL modem or the router to the power supply properly.

Laptops that are manufactured nowadays, generally come with an inbuilt adapter. Detecting this problem is quite simple ― it is indicated by the light associated with this network adapter.

However, if there is no such light to indicate, then you have to take other measures. If you are using a USB network adapter and you encounter the same problem, then the troubleshooting steps will be different.

Troubleshooting Procedure
Whether you have an indicator or not, you can check it anyhow. All you need to do is, right click on 'My Computer' and select properties from the drop-down menu. In properties, select 'device manager' and check if the adapter is switched on or not. If not, then you have to right click on it and 'Start' it.

If you are using a USB network adapter, then simply unplug the adapter and reconnect it. Generally there are lights on it to indicate that it is connected properly to the system and is within the range of wireless network.

If you notice that any of the lights are blinking and are not stable, then you can try replugging the device. Whenever you unplug the device from USB port, ensure that you go through the process of safely removing the hardware.

This can get a bit complicated. It has nothing to do with the hardware, and you need to be more cautious when handling this problem. Without proper encryption settings, you will definitely face problems and won't be able to connect to the desired network.

Troubleshooting Procedure
For troubleshooting this problem, you will need the network key and index key of the network you want to connect to. You can get the permission from the administrator of your network. If he allows you, he will provide you with the keys.

Once you have both the keys, simply view the available network connections and check if the network is available or not. If it is available, then right-click on it and go to properties. Go to the encryption settings of the network and type in both the keys.

It is very important that you install the correct drivers for the wireless modem that you are using. If the drivers are not installed, then your system will not be able to detect or activate the modem.

Troubleshooting Procedure
It involves finding out the correct drivers and installing the modem. Search for them over the Internet. An easy way to do so is by right-clicking on the modem in device manager and by selecting 'install drivers'.

When installing them, check out that they are the right ones. Even if the drivers that you have selected are meant for a modem with features exactly similar to your modem but with a voltage difference, they won't work.