Your computer is taking ages to upload documents, video calls are constantly freezing mid-meeting and your saves aren’t saving. You’ve tried turning your computer off and on again, and you’ve tried rebooting your router, but the problems still persist.
But how can you tell if it’s the internet connection that’s causing trouble, or if it’s your own gear that’s acting up? Your business doesn’t have time for downtime, so you need to get to the root of the problem – and fix it for good.
Here are some pointers on how you can diagnose a hardware problem versus an internet connection issue so you can troubleshoot the problem accordingly and get back to business.
You have hardware issues if…
Your router isn’t powered correctly: Take a look at the LED lights where the cords plug in (likely on the back of your router) – are they lit up? If there are no lights, the router has likely become unplugged or the power switch has been flipped off. If after a couple of minutes the router still isn’t coming on, you may have a faulty power adapter, faulty power strip or a fried adapter which you’ll need to replace.
Your Ethernet cords aren’t connected properly: If your power LED is on, you’ll need to look at the Ethernet port lights. If these are not lit, turn the router off and unplug each cable. As you reconnect each cord, make sure they fit correctly, and that they’re in the right port. Wait a few minutes and then reboot.
Your router needs a reboot: Still not getting a good connection? Consider doing a factory reset on the router so it can perform a fresh install. There should be a reset button clearly labelled on it. If your router is a bit older, you might need to order a new one entirely. Contact your service provider to find out if your model is out of date.
If you weren’t able to diagnose your problem with the above solutions, you likely don’t have a problem with your hardware – it’s your connection.
You have connection issues if…
You’ve restarted your devices: Sometimes, all you need to do to get a good signal is restart your devices (whether that be your computer or your router). If multiple devices around the office are having trouble getting a strong connection, then the problem is definitely your connection.
You’ve moved the router to different locations: Moving a router around your office space can help you find a better signal. But if you’ve tried every nook and cranny of your office, it’s not the router, it’s the connection itself.
So how do you make your connection work?
Fastest fibre plans offer the fastest and most reliable broadband service available based on download speed, latency and difference between peak and off peak speeds.
Fibre optic cables are used to transport huge amounts of data that won’t degrade over distance. That means it will support your current online and digital needs with room to grow with your business whether you’re adding more staff or more devices.
Contact your service provider to make the switch to fibre broadband, and while you do, it’s worth considering a switch to a plan that uses Chorus business-grade fibre. These plans are designed a little differently than a standard residential plan.
A plan based on business grade fibre includes a dedicated service desk and the Chorus business restore priority service which ensures that if there is a fault with the Chorus network that it will be fixed fast with guaranteed restoration times.
Now you’re ready to get your office back online when an issue arises – and how you can prevent unnecessary connectivity issues so your team stays productive.
No time for downtime? Keep your business humming around the clock. Explore business-grade fibre broadband options.
INSIGHTS FROM THE TEAM AT CHORUS BUSINESS.
