Troubleshooting tips for accessing WiFi

Filed in archive Misc on September 4, 2009

© dana~2


"Free Wifi" might be one of the most enticing signs ever placed in front of a coffee shop. It beckons you in with the promise of caffeine and open access to all the internet has to offer. Work and recharge in the same place.

But then it all goes wrong. You just can't seem to connect. You can't find the network or you connect but can't browse. All those high hopes crushed in an instant! You have two options now. You can throw your lap top at the nearest barista or you can simmer down and try a few of these tips to get your connection humming smoothly again.

Magic Buttons: Much like checking if your dryer is plugged in before calling a handyman, the most common problem with a wifi connection has a simple solution. Many laptops now have wifi connection trip somewhere on the outside of the computer, either a switch or a button. Its very easy to accidentally hit the switch when you move or carry your laptop. So, first thing, check to make sure your wireless is turned on.

Don't be Afraid to Ask: If you repeatedly try to connect to the wifi with no success, just ask someone who works at your location. Sometimes there's a "trick" to it you don't know, like it doesn't reach that area of the lobby or the network has a weird name. Maybe the wifi is down today. Often getting a manager to reset the router can make all the difference.

Refresh, Refresh: If you try to connect to a wireless network and can't find it, or have trouble connecting, try refreshing. Often refreshing your available networks can jolt your wifi into working order.

Need more technical help? Check this out.

When all else fails, hit it. No, I'm kidding, but sometimes technology does take a little... coaxing. So be willing to fidget, fix settings and generally test your patience.

Got a secret tip to get your wifi to work? Tell us about it and share the wealth.