Computersight -

Isolate the Problem

Don’t panic! Before you burst into flames, try to pin point the problem. Often it’s just a minor glitch in the system. If the problem is slow internet speed even though you have a broadband connection, it’s probably that you are downloading a huge file or have opened a website that requires huge amount internet resources. By trying to isolate the issue, you are just simplifying the problem and making it easier to fix.

Checking for Internet Connection

The blinking lights on your broadband router indicate the status of your device; the most important of these is the Internet. If the internet light is blinking, there is internet activity, if it’s OFF, then probably you are disconnected from your ISP, or the Internet wire has gotten loose.

On the lower right corner of your screen, you can see the network icon. Try to check the status by right-clicking the icon, and left-clicking Status. It displays the connection of your computer and how your computer is relaying data to the network shown below.

Local Area Network general window

Perform Basic Troubleshooting

Alright, you have an internet connection but you cannot go online. It is time to test your skills, even a novice can learn a thing or to on how to fix it and helps you boost your confidence. The most basic is by restarting your computer and it works most of the time. It helps by closing unwanted applications that’s slows down your connection.

Another useful task is performing network diagnostics. You can click on support tab to access the repair function. This will try to check and repair broken connections, resets the driver and reestablishes your connection to the server.

Local Area Network support window

Some service providers offer free utilities to help troubleshoot network connection, try to maximize it. These utilities are specifically created to match your connection settings to their server.

Another very useful habit is by performing virus scans. Some viruses are programmed to destroy your pc, others are meant to slow your internet connection. So by updating and performing regular virus scans can help boost your internet speed and wipe out any potential threats. Popular antivirus software such as Norton or MacAfee not only provides real time protection, it also provides some tests in improving your internet connection.

Online help or phone support option

If all else fails, its time to call the Pros; most service providers and software manufacturers offer free online support as opposed to calling for help. For Internet Service Providers, it is already part of your subscription, but if they cannot fix it, most certainly they will refer you to either the computer manufacturer of your computer or the operating system maker. Trying online support is the best way to start, you never know the answers are just on the support page and you are paying more than what its worth for.

Sample picture below shows the Help and Support Page of Microsoft available at http://support.microsoft.com. Shown are frequently asked questions, articles and newsgroups because they already have the answers to common issues. Some offer free email and chat support but may take some time to get a reply.

Microsoft’s self help website

The surest way is the phone support but may vary according to their support offering. For computer manufacturers, they will be asking for some information to help validate the warranty of your computer mostly commonly found on the exterior of the computer. For Windows, it can be found in the properties section by right clicking My Computer icon.  

Resolution

If the problem was resolved by your technical support, remember what the problem was. Usually they will give you a ticket or service request to track down the problem, use this if the issue occurs again. Also, take notes on how he/she help you fixed it, ask for any helpful information to be sent to you so you can do a self help next time. It’s always good to be resourceful as this can help you in your future problems.