Help! My Network Is Down!

As much as we depend on our network functioning for well, forever, it’s unrealistic to expect it. That said, it’s a given we will experience a down network at times, but a majority of issues get solved quickly, and some require a computer pro to revive the network.

When your network is down and before you think the world is ending, please check out this list of simple, commonsense steps likely to solve the problem. We’re pretty sure your world will be back in great shape in no time!

Easy Steps to Repair Your Network

• Of the most basic steps to cure a network problem, always confirm each component is turned on and working. Sometimes, a power strip might get unplugged accidentally or turned off. Yes, it really happens. In fact, it happens often enough forcing a complete wiring configuration change to prevent it.

• Most times people know how their computer connects to the network and barring anything damaged, it’s a good idea to look at the network connections and confirm they’re in the proper place and connected.

• If you see an error message on your screen, immediately write down the error code and/or message. If necessary, it can be used for troubleshooting.

• The old standby cure-all might work in this instance. Try a “cold boot” of the computer. Turn off the power and then back on. Allow it to boot up and go through its normal sequence. Don’t rush this. Give it the time it needs to finish. Monitor the boot process and look for anything amiss. If so, make a note of it.

• After a reboot, if nothing works, open the network troubleshooter. If you’re not familiar with its location, perform a quick search for it, or look in the taskbar for the network icon and right click. A list of options such as “diagnose problems” or “troubleshoot network issues” appears. Click on either of those and allow the program to run as it diagnoses your system. This process will restart your network adapter and reconnect to the network.

• Just like a cold boot of your computer has untold remedial properties, a reboot of the network server sometimes has the same effect. If you’re not familiar, please contact someone who does.

• You may find your network is not causing the problem at all. Instead, the lack of hard-drive space or faulty memory could be the culprit. For many people, troubleshooting a problem with lack of space or memory issues, it’s wise to call a pro rather than try to revive a failing computer with obvious problems. You have to know your limits troubleshooting highly technical problems, and it’s not worth risking damage to your expensive computer equipment.

Aside from serious problems with your workstation or the network itself, the steps here provide a reasonable chance for success when your network is down. Remember most problems occur because of an oversight or another simple cause. Always begin with the simplest steps first and branch out to more difficult and technical causes.

The quickest way to fix anything is in a straight line. In other words, follow instructions and assume nothing. When troubleshooting, begin at the first step and remember every step is important, which leads to the next step. Good luck, and we hope you’ll be logged onto your network soon!