If you're having Internet connectivity problems, there can be a variety of factors causing it. Determining which is the first step to solving this issue. Here are some common troubleshooting techniques for solving Internet connection problems. Follow these instructions to diagnose the issue.

1. Left-click start
2. Double click control panel
3. Double click network in sharing
4. Left-click manage network connections

This will then list all the devices that help you connect to the Internet, if your Ethernet device is not working there will be a red X over the local area connection icon. You will need to check your Ethernet cables and cables connected to your modem.

1. Left-click
2. In the start search box type in cmd
3. Press enter
4. Type in ipconfig /all
5. Press enter

This will show all your local area connections you have installed in your computer. This will show a wired or wireless Ethernet card if you do not see this IPv4 address beside the local area connection you do not have an IP address. You will need to check your Ethernet cables and cables connected to your modem.

Checking your cables: Cable and DSL modems, Routers

The cable modem is connected to a cable outlet using a coaxial cable. This is usually connected to a splitter if you don’t have extra outlets. Make sure all the coaxial cables are tightly screwed on the outlet on the wall, on the splitter and on the modem. Check to make sure that your power cable to the modem is connected and pushed in all the way.

The DSL modem is connected to your phone outlet with a special filter adapter and is connected to your modem with a phone cord. Make sure this filter adapter is pushed firmly in place and that the phone cord is connected to the filter adapter and modem. Make sure that your Ethernet cable is plugged into the modem and Ethernet port on the back of your computer. Firmly push the cable hearing a click when properly in place. If using a router make sure to check the Ethernet cable is properly connected from the router to the modem. Also ensure that any and all computers hooked up to are connected and check that the routers’ power cable is connected and pushed in all the way. If this does not help restore your Internet connection you will need to try resetting your hardware.

Resetting your hardware

Whenever someone has a problem with their computer, the first thing I ask them is if they rebooted. More often than not, a simple reboot will fix many problems. Fortunately, the same goes for hardware.

Cable modem

Turn your computer off, unscrew your coaxial cable from the back of your modem and unplug your power cable from the modem. Wait about 1 minute then screw your coaxial cable back into your modem, plug the power cord back in. Wait until all the lights come on your modem and turn your computer back on.

DSL modem

Turn your computer off, disconnect the phone cord that is connected to your modem and unplug the power cord. Wait about 1 minute then reconnect your phone cables back into your modem, plug the power cord back in. Wait until all the lights come on your modem and turn your computer back on.

Router

Unplug your Ethernet cable and the power cord from back of your router, wait about 1 minute. Plug in your Ethernet cable. Some modems and routers will also have a reset button on the back or top of the device. Try this if the preceding did not work.

If this does not help troubleshoot your problems you will need to contact your internet service provider.