Wireless Networking Fundamentals

Troubleshooting a W-Lan Problem

This simple checklist could help you solve some basic wireless problems.

1. Is your Wireless Radio enabled?
   • Enable via the Motion Dashboard or Network Connections
2. If W-LAN is enabled you may have to manually add the access point (Refer to Lesson 2)
3. If WEP security is enabled have you entered the correct password?
4. Are you the only one having W-LAN issues?
   • Ask coworkers if they are experiencing problems
5. Home or residential users: Is your Internet provider service functional?

Common Problems & Solutions

Scenario: Your home W-LAN network is operational, but you cannot access the Internet or your e-mail server.

Solution:

1. Verify that your Internet service provider is functional.
2. Check your DSL or cable modem status.
3. If your Internet service is down your W-LAN should remain operational you will just not be able to access the Internet.

Scenario: After resuming from Standby mode, the wireless connection icon in the Notification Area of the Windows Taskbar may show the connection as "Unavailable," even if wireless connectivity is available.

Solution:

1. The media connection action was not sent to the wireless service correctly.
2. Disable and then re-enable the wireless network adapter in Control Panel.
3. To disable and/or enable the wireless network adapter:
   1. Select Start -> Control Panel
   2. Select Network Connections
   3. Right-click on Wireless Network Connections
   4. Tap Disable
   5. Right-click on Wireless Network Connections
   6. Tap Enable
   7. Close Control Panel

Scenario: You can access some web sites. but not others.

Solution:

1. If you can access some web sites, then the wireless connection is fine even if you cannot connect to others.
2. Your Internet connection is most likely OK as well.
3. An Internet filter may be set.

Scenario: No one in your office can access the Internet.

Solution:

1. Contact your local support center as you probably have network related problems.