How to Troubleshoot Your Home Internet in 9 Easy Steps

Have you ever had a moment when your home internet decides to take a nap without permission, leaving you stranded in the middle of an important task? It happens to practically all of us. Thankfully, there's a good chance you can fix it yourself with some basic troubleshooting steps.

Before you reach out to your ISP, it's worth giving self-troubleshooting a try. Let's dive into how you can become your own tech support in our article.

Step 1: Verify the Scope of the Problem

Determine Device-Specific Issues

First things first, let's figure out if the problem is playing favorites with your devices. Can't connect on your laptop but cruising online on your phone? That's a clue. Go ahead, test the waters with a few different gadgets you have around. You can use any of the following internet speed test tools: Broadbandsearch SpeedTest, Earthlink Speedtest, InternetAdvisor Speedtest. If it's just one device throwing a tantrum, you've narrowed down the culprit.

Test on Different Devices

If your first device hits a snag, grab another. This step is all about comparison. When your tablet, smartphone, and laptop all give you the cold shoulder, it's a sign the issue might be broader than a single device. A universal struggle across devices points towards a network or service issue.

Use a Network Troubleshooting Tool

Don't overlook the helpers hiding in your device! Windows has its Network Diagnostics, and macOS offers Wireless Diagnostics. Run these built-in troubleshooters. They're like having a tech-savvy friend who can often tell you exactly where things went awry, without the hassle of a house call.

Step 2: Inspect Physical Connections

Check Modem and Router Cables

Take a moment to closely examine all the cables connected to your modem and router. Make sure everything is snug and secure. A loose cable is often the culprit behind internet mishaps. Also, glance over the cables for any visible damage that could disrupt your connection.

Verify Power Supply

It might sound simple, but it's easy to overlook. Double-check that your modem and router are not just connected but also powered on. Sometimes, the issue could be as straightforward as a turned-off power strip or a disconnected power adapter. No lights on your devices usually signals a power problem, so ensuring everything is properly plugged in can sometimes instantly solve your dilemma.

Step 3: Reboot Your Modem and Router

Power Cycling the Modem and Router

It's not just a tech support cliché; it works wonders. Switch off or unplug your modem and router. Wait about a minute—this pause gives your devices a breather to clear any hiccups. Then, power them back on. This simple act can sometimes restore your internet connection.

Effectiveness of Rebooting

Why does rebooting help so much? It's like giving your internet devices a fresh start. This process can resolve IP conflicts, where devices compete for the same IP address, and refresh your connection to your internet service provider (ISP). Think of it as a system reset that clears out any temporary glitches in the network.

Sequential Restart

For an extra layer of troubleshooting finesse, try a sequential restart. First, turn off and unplug your modem, then do the same with your router. After waiting a minute, plug your modem back in first and wait for it to fully connect to the internet (look for the usual lights). Only then should you turn your router back on. This order ensures a smooth line of communication between your modem, router, and the ISP, potentially fixing connectivity issues more effectively.

Step 4: Check for Service Outages

Consult Your ISP's Website or Social Media

Before you dive deeper into troubleshooting, take a quick detour to your ISP's website or their official social media pages. Many providers maintain an up-to-date status page or community forums where they report network outages or scheduled maintenance. This step can save you a lot of time and effort by confirming whether the issue is on your end or theirs.

Social Media and Online Tools

If you're facing an outage, don't limit yourself to just your ISP's updates. Tap into the community on social platforms like Twitter and Facebook for immediate insights and user experiences. Platforms like Downdetector collate these reports, pinpointing outages and disruptions. Such insights offer a broader picture of the problem and potential fix times. Bear in mind, you'll likely need an alternative connection, like mobile data, to access these resources and get the full scoop on your service situation. 

Step 5: Optimize Wi-Fi Signals

Position Your Router Strategically

Finding the perfect spot for your router can feel like a game of hot and cold. You're aiming for that sweet spot: central, elevated, and open. Avoid tucking it away in cabinets or close to metal objects and electronic devices that could cause interference. Think of your router's signals like light from a lamp.

Network Band Selection

Your router probably offers two bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Think of 2.4 GHz as a city bus: it goes farther but is crowded. The 5 GHz is more like a taxi; it's faster but doesn't go as far. Use 2.4 GHz for devices farther away from the router or when you need broader coverage. Switch to 5 GHz for high-speed activities like streaming or gaming, especially if you're closer to the router.

Changing the Wi-Fi Channel

Switching to Wi-Fi channels 1, 6, and 11 on the 2.4 GHz band is recommended because these are the only channels that do not overlap with one another, which can significantly reduce interference and improve network performance. The 2.4 GHz band is only 100 MHz wide, encompassing channels that are each 20 MHz wide. 

Most channels in this band overlap, except for 1, 6, and 11, making them the best choices to avoid interference from neighboring networks. Overlapping channels can cause your Wi-Fi signals to interfere with each other, slowing down your connection. However, if you're on one of the non-overlapping channels, you're less likely to experience this issue since there's no overlap between these channels. 

Pros:

• Reduced Interference: Changing to a less congested channel can minimize interference from other networks.
• Improved Speed and Stability: With less interference, your Wi-Fi might deliver faster speeds and more reliable connections.

Cons:

• Potential for Worse Performance: If chosen poorly, a new channel might have more interference, affecting performance.
• Compatibility Issues: Some devices perform better on certain channels. Switching might impact device connectivity.

How to Change a WiFi Channel on Your Router

Netgear

1. Make sure you're connected to your router's network through your computer or mobile device.
2. Open a web browser and type in http://www.routerlogin.net. This will bring up a login window.
3. Enter the username "admin" and the password you set up when you first logged in. Remember, both the username and password are case-sensitive. After logging in, you'll be directed to the BASIC Home page.
4. Look for the "Wireless" option and click on it. This will take you to the Wireless Settings page.
5. From the drop-down menu labeled "Region," choose your region. Keep in mind that in some places, you might not be able to change this setting.
6. Scroll down until you find the wireless band you want to adjust the channel for. For example, if you're interested in changing the channel for the 5 GHz band, locate the section labeled "5GHz (a/n/ac/ax)."
7. In the Channel menu, select a channel number. Be aware that not all channels might be available due to regional wireless regulations.
8. Once you've chosen your channel, click on the "Apply" button. Your new channel settings will be saved.

ASUS

1. Connect your computer to your router either using a cable or through Wi-Fi. Then, open up your web browser and type in your router's LAN IP or use the router's URL, like http://www.asusrouter.com, to access the router's settings.
2. Once you're on the router's webpage, you'll be prompted to enter your router's username and password. Fill those in to log in.
3. Now, navigate to the Wireless settings. You'll typically find this under a section labeled "Wireless" and then "General." From there, choose the band you want to configure—either 2.4GHz or 5GHz. Within each band, you'll see options like Channel Bandwidth 2.4GHz, Band 5GHz, or Band 5GHz-1 and Band 5GHz-2. Pick the one you're interested in adjusting. Then, select the Channel Bandwidth you prefer.

a) For the 2.4GHz band,

b) For the 5GHz or 5GHz-1 band,

c) For the 5GHz-2 band.

• After making your selections, don't forget to click on "Apply" to save your changes.

TP-Link

For Single-band Router:

1. Go to your router's settings by clicking on Wireless, then Basic Settings.
2. Here, you'll want to adjust the Channel and Channel Width to improve your Wi-Fi performance. Once you've made your changes, remember to click Save.

For Dual-band Router:

1. Access the advanced settings by clicking on Advanced, then Wireless, and finally Wireless Settings.
2. First, focus on the 2.4GHz band. Adjust the Channel and Channel Width to optimize your Wi-Fi, and then Save your settings.
3. Next, navigate to the 5GHz settings. Similarly, adjust the Channel and Channel Width here, and Save your changes.

• If your router supports it, for the 5GHz band, it's advisable to use channels within Band 4, which typically ranges from channel 149 to 165.

Note: If you have a tri-band router, repeat step 3 to adjust the channel and channel width settings for the third band.

Linksys

1. Go to the router’s setup page using http://192.168.1.1. If this doesn't work, follow the instructions provided.
2. Once on the setup page, click on the Wireless tab.
3. Under Basic Wireless Settings, choose Manual. This lets you customize your wireless channel. Save your settings.

Note: Some models skip the Manual step. Instead, go to Wireless > Basic Wireless Settings and make your channel changes directly.

1. Set both the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz networks to 20 MHz for Channel Width.
2. Choose the channel provided by LiteWire Support from the Channel dropdown menu. If you haven't been assigned a channel, request one through a support ticket.
3. Save your settings.

Guest Networks and Security Settings

Setting up a guest network and tightening your security settings can vastly improve both your network’s performance and its safety. Here’s why:

• It Keeps Your Main Network Private: Guests connect to the internet without accessing your personal devices.
• It Limits Bandwidth for Guests: Ensure your primary devices retain priority and performance.
• It Enhances Security: Less risk of unauthorized access to your sensitive information.
• It’s Easy to Manage: Separate passwords mean you can easily change guest access without affecting your main network.
• It Reduces The Risk of Malware: Guest devices might be less secure, so keeping them isolated protects you.
• Improves Network Performance: Fewer devices on your main network means better speeds.
• Future-Proof with WPA3: The latest security protocol, WPA3, makes your Wi-Fi harder to hack, offering stronger protections against guessing attacks.

Step 6: Update Router Firmware

Router Firmware Updates

Keeping your router's firmware up-to-date is like giving it a brain boost. These updates can significantly enhance your internet performance and beef up your network's security. Most routers have a built-in option to check for firmware updates in their settings menu. You'll typically access this through a web browser, using your router's IP address. If there's an update, follow the on-screen instructions to install it. Not only could this solve existing issues, but it also keeps you ahead of potential future problems.

Netgear

Using the Nighthawk app

1. Open the Nighthawk app and tap on your router’s image. 
2. Scroll down and tap "Check for Updates".
3. If there's new firmware, tap "Update".
4. Tap "Next" to reboot the router and finish installing the update.

Using the web interface

1. Log into the router's web interface by navigating through Settings (or Advanced) > Administration > Firmware (or Router) Update.
2. Click on the "Check" button to see if there's any available firmware update.

Note: If you want automatic updates, you can click on the "Enable" radio button next to "Router Auto Firmware Update."

1. If there's a new firmware, select "Yes" to install it.
2. Reboot your router to complete the installation process. 

ASUS

Using the ASUS router app

1. Open the ASUS router app and go to the Settings tab. Then, find the Firmware Upgrade option.
2. Tap on "Check Firmware Version" to see if there's an update available.
3. If there's a new version, decide whether you want to Upgrade Now or Later, and tap accordingly.
4. Once the upgrade is complete, tap "OK" to finish.

Using a web browser

1. Open your web browser and access the router settings by navigating to Advanced > Administration > Firmware Upgrade.
2. Click on "Check" to see if there's a newer firmware version available.
3. If an upgrade is available, click on the "Firmware Upgrade" button and wait for the process to complete.
4. Finally, reboot your router to ensure the installation is complete. 

TP-Link

Using the Tether app

1. Open the Tether app and go to Tools, then System, and finally Firmware Update.
2. Tap on Update to begin the process.
3. Confirm the installation by tapping Update again.
4. Complete the installation by rebooting the router.

Using the web interface

1. Open your web browser and access the router settings by clicking on Advanced, then System Tools, and finally Firmware Update.
2. Click on Check for Upgrades to see if there are any available.
3. If new firmware is found, click on Firmware Upgrade.
4. Finish the installation by rebooting the router.

Linksys

Using the Linksys app

1. Open the Linksys app and navigate to the Menu (often represented by three lines). From there, go to Network Administration.
2. Toggle the switch next to Automatic Firmware Update to turn this feature on or off according to your preference.

Using a web browser

1. Open your web browser and access the router settings by clicking on Connectivity, then Basic.
2. In the Firmware Update section, click on "Check for Updates" to see if there's a new firmware available.

Note: If you want automatic updates, ensure the box next to "Automatic" is checked.

1. If an update is found, click on the provided link.
2. Confirm the update by selecting "Yes" in the pop-up window that appears.
3. After the update is complete, click "OK" to reboot your router.
4. Finally, click "OK" in the Firmware Update Complete pop-up window to finish the process. 

Network Driver Updates

Just as your router needs the latest firmware, your devices crave the latest network drivers to communicate effectively with your router. These updates can fix bugs, improve performance, and even add new features. Check your device manufacturer's website for the latest driver updates. For Windows users, the Device Manager is a handy tool for checking and updating your network adapters. Mac users can find updates through the System Preferences or the App Store, depending on their operating system version.

Step 7: Limit Bandwidth-Heavy Applications

Identify High Usage Applications

To better manage your network and discuss concerns with your ISP, knowing which applications use the most bandwidth is key. Here are the top five tools for monitoring network usage:

• Windows Task Manager: Quick access to see real-time network consumption per application.
• Mac Activity Monitor: Offers a detailed view of network usage across various apps.
• GlassWire: Visualizes past and present network activity on Windows and Mac.
• NetBalancer: Allows Windows users to monitor and control their internet traffic.
• Network Analyzer: iOS/Android app analyzes network, tracks bandwidth usage.

Prioritizing Bandwidth

Quality of Service (QoS) is your router's way of keeping the peace on your network. Here's how to set it up:

Netgear

1. Start by connecting your device to your NETGEAR router, either wirelessly or with an Ethernet cable.
2. Open a web browser and try one of these addresses: http://www.routerlogin.com, http://www.routerlogin.net, http://192.168.1.1, http://192.168.0.1, or http://10.0.0.1. This will take you to the router login page.
3. You'll need to enter your username and password. The default username is admin (remember, it's case sensitive), and the default password is password (also case sensitive).
4. Once logged in successfully, you'll see the NETGEAR web interface.
5. Now, click on ADVANCED, then Setup, and finally QoS setup.
6. Choose either Applications or Online Gaming under Priority Category.
7. Select the specific internet application or game you want to prioritize under Applications.
8. Choose a priority level based on your needs: Highest, High, Normal, or Low.
9. Click Apply.

ASUS

1. Connect your computer to the router, either wired or via WiFi, and access the router's web interface using its LAN IP or router URL http://www.asusrouter.com.
2. Log in using your router's username and password.

Note: If you forget your login credentials, you can restore the router to factory default settings and set it up again.

1. Go to the QoS tab and select Bandwidth Limiter under the Adaptive QoS function.
2. In the Bandwidth Limiter page, you can set limits for specific devices in four ways:

• Choose the client name from the target field dropdown menus.
• Enter the IP address in the target field.
• Specify an IP range in the target field (supports formats like 192.168.1.2-100, 192.168.1.*, or 192.168.1.0/24).
• Enter the MAC address in the target field.

1. Enter the maximum download and upload bandwidth values for the client device, then click the "+" button to add the rule.
2. After configuring the rule, click the Apply button to save your changes.

TP-Link

First, let's access your router admin page:

1. Connect your device to the router either wirelessly or with an Ethernet cable.
2. Open a web browser and type either http://tplinkwifi.net or http://192.168.0.1 into the address bar. This will take you to the router's login page.
3. You'll need to enter a username and password. If you haven't changed these yet, the default credentials are both lowercase "admin." Once entered, hit enter to log in.
4. Click on Advanced, then QoS, and finally Application Priority.
5. To adjust total bandwidth, click the edit button next to Total Bandwidth. You can either use the router's built-in speed test or manually enter your internet speeds.
6. Save your settings.
7. Choose from the categories menu (like Standard, Gaming, Streaming, etc.) to set priority for different applications based on your needs.

Linksys

1. Log in to the Linksys Dual-Band WiFi Router's web interface. If you need help, check the instructions provided.
2. Click on the Configuration tab.
3. Navigate to Security and then select QoS.

Note: Wi-Fi Multimedia (WMM) Support enhances quality for audio, video, and voice applications by prioritizing wireless traffic. It's usually Enabled by default. If you don't want the router to resend data upon errors, check the No Acknowledgement box.

• Enable the Internet Access Priority box.

Note: You can set the Upstream Bandwidth to Auto or Manual. Auto detects the maximum upstream bandwidth, while Manual lets you specify it. Keep Auto for default or choose Manual to input your bandwidth.

• Choose a Category from the drop-down menu based on your priority setup: Applications, Online Games, MAC Address, or Voice Device.
• Select an application or game, or input the MAC address of your chosen device. Then, set the desired priority level.
• Click Apply and then Save.

Managing Device Connections

During times when internet usage peaks, managing the number of connected devices can make a world of difference. Here are 7 tips to optimize your network:

• Disconnect Idle Devices: Turn off Wi-Fi on devices that aren't in use.
• Limit Streaming: Avoid multiple simultaneous streaming activities.
• Schedule Updates: Set devices to update apps and software during off-peak hours.
• Use Ethernet: Connect high-usage devices via Ethernet to reduce Wi-Fi load.
• Guest Network: Utilize a guest network for visitors to keep your primary network less congested.
• Smart Home Scheduling: Schedule smart home devices to operate during low internet usage times.
• Monitor Activity: Regularly check which devices are connected and actively manage your network's load.

Step 8: Contact Your ISP for Support

How to Contact Customer Service

1. Use live chat and FAQs: Get assistance efficiently without phone calls. Email your internet provider or use live chat on their site. FAQs can also solve common issues. It's quick, easy, and saves time waiting on hold.
2. Reach out in writing for help: Avoid phone confusion; seek written solutions such as emails. Reference instructions and ask for follow-ups easily. Get clearer steps and archive conversations for future reference. If email isn't an option, call. Request follow-up emails for documentation.
3. Stay polite and stay confident: When calling your ISP, be patient and kind. Politely ask for a manager if necessary. Seek genuine customer service.

 Below are phone numbers for popular internet service providers:

• AT&T: +1-800-288-2020
• Astound Broadband (Formerly Grande Communications): +1-800-427-8686
• Astound Broadband (Formerly RCN): +1-800-746-4726
• CenturyLink: +1-866-642-0444
• Cox: +1-800-234-3993
• Earthlink: +1-888-327-8454
• Frontier: +1-800-921-8101
• Hughesnet: +1-866-347-3292
• Optimum: +1-877-694-9474
• Spectrum: +1-833-267-6094
• Sparklight: +1-877-692-2253
• Verizon Fios Home Internet: +1-800-837-4966
• Viasat: +1-844-702-3199
• Windstream: +1-800-347-1991
• WOW! Internet: +1-866-496-9669
• Xfinity: +1-800-XFINITY
• XTREME powered by Mediacom: +1-855-633-4226

When to Call Your ISP

Knowing when to reach out can save you time and frustration. Here are a few signs that it's time to call your ISP:

• Persistent low speeds despite rebooting your equipment
• Frequent disconnections not fixed by troubleshooting
• Outage in your area has been resolved, but you're still offline
• Suspicion of hardware issues with ISP-provided equipment

Information to Prepare

Having specific information on hand can streamline your support call and help the technician understand your issue more quickly:

• Account Information: Your account number and the primary account holder's name.
• Description of the Problem: Clearly describe what you're experiencing.
• Troubleshooting Steps Taken: Outline any steps you've already tried.
• Error Messages: Note any specific error messages you've seen.
• Time Patterns: Mention if the issue occurs at specific times.
• Device Impact: Specify if all or only specific devices are affected.
• Service Changes: Report any recent changes to your service or setup.

Step 9: Consider Upgrading Your Plan or Equipment

Assessing Internet Needs

Start by taking a hard look at your internet activities. Are you streaming 4K videos, gaming online, or have multiple high-demand devices connected simultaneously? If your current plan was perfect a few years back but now seems to falter under increased demands, it's a clear sign you've outgrown it. Internet needs evolve, especially as we add more smart devices to our homes and consume more bandwidth-heavy content.

Exploring Upgrade Options

• Upgrading Your Router or Modem: If your equipment is several years old, it might not support the latest technologies that offer improved speed and coverage. Newer models come with advanced features like better security, dual-bandwidth frequencies, and support for more devices. An upgrade can make a significant difference in your internet performance.
• Comparing ISP Plans: ISPs frequently update their plans and offerings. Maybe now there's a package better suited to your heavy internet use, or perhaps promotional offers could get you higher speeds at a similar price point.

Final Thoughts

Navigating internet troubles doesn't have to be a maze. By systematically working through these nine straightforward steps, you can often pinpoint and solve the issue on your own. Remember, each step brings you closer to resolution, empowering you to maintain a smooth, reliable home internet connection.