IT Support and Services? Here is How to Troubleshoot Common Network Issues

In today’s tech-dependent era, a strong business network is the backbone of modern operations. These days, tech facilitates everything from email to critical applications and cloud services. Therefore, when network issues arise, they can disrupt communication, productivity, income and impact customer satisfaction. Hence, it is important to know how to troubleshoot network problems efficiently. This can save valuable time and resources. Here are some simple steps you can do to identify and resolve common network issues without calling for IT support and services’ help. 

IT Support and Services Here is How to Troubleshoot Common Network Issues

First, Identify the Problem 

The first step in troubleshooting is to know what the problem is about. Hence, gathering complete and detailed information is needed to help narrow down potential causes and solutions. 

Determine the Scope: 

Check if the issue affects a single user, a group, or the entire network. For example, if only one user experiences issues, then it may be related to their device. On the other hand, widespread problems might indicate a bigger network issue. 

Ask the Right Questions: 

Get specific details from users about the issue. Some questions that you need to ask include things like when the problem started, what is the error message (if any), what they were doing at the time, and if they took any step to address the issue. This information helps pinpoint the issue more accurately, especially if you need to relay this later to your IT support and services team. 

Check Error Messages: 

Usually, software issues give error messages. Check for these and other alerts such as flickering lights, beeping sounds, etc. These offer clues about the nature of the problem. Noting down these messages can be useful for future reference and troubleshooting. 

Second, Check the Physical Connections 

Oftentimes, issues in the network come from physical connections. Check for cables, ports, and power sources. These usually help in quickly resolving or identifying simple problems. 

Cables and Ports: 

Cables should be undamaged and connected securely. Loose or faulty cables can lead to connectivity problems. You can also try testing cables with another device. This can help confirm their functionality. 

Power Sources: 

Simple things such as making sure all networking equipment is powered on can be overlooked. Therefore, always check power cables and adapters. If needed, you can reset power sources. IT support and services experts advise that oftentimes, power issues are the cause of network problems. 

Network Devices: 

Following that, you can now examine routers, switches, and modems. This is to ensure these switches are functioning well. Most of the time, restarting these devices can resolve temporary glitches and restore normal operation. 

Third, Test Network Connectivity 

Network connectivity testing helps pinpoint where the connection fails. This will determine whether the issue is device-specific or network-wide. 

Use Ping and Traceroute: 

Make use of ping and traceroute commands to test network connectivity. These tools can reveal where the connection breaks down. In example, the issue might be external if the ping works locally but not remotely. 

Test Different Devices: 

If multiple devices are connected to the network, see if other devices are having the same issue. This will determine if the problem is specific to one device or network wide. This can also help isolate the issue. 

Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength: 

In cases of wireless connections, weak signal strength can cause issues. Move closer to the router or access point and see if this helps. You can also use Wi-Fi analyzers to identify and address signal interference. 

Fourth, Examine Network Configuration 

Misconfigurations in network settings can also lead to connectivity problems. Checking IP settings, DNS configurations, and router or switch settings can help resolve these issues. 

Check IP Settings: 

Ensure that all devices have the correct IP addresses, subnet masks, and gateways. Settings that are not done correctly can prevent devices from connecting to the network. 

Review DNS Settings: 

Check that DNS settings are correctly configured. Incorrect DNS settings can cause issues with accessing websites and services. 

Inspect Router and Switch Configurations: 

Lastly, review configurations on routers and switches. This is to ensure there are no misconfigurations or recent changes that might have caused the problem. 

Fifth, Continuously Monitor Network Performance 

Constant monitoring of network performance is essential to know and fix issues. This is necessary to avoid escalation. 

Use Network Monitoring Tools: 

Have the correct tools that track network traffic, bandwidth usage, and potential issues. These provide clues into network performance. Similarly, it also helps identify trends and problem areas. 

Check for Bottlenecks: 

Pinpoint any bottlenecks caused by high traffic or heavy usage. You may need to increase bandwidth or optimize traffic flow in order to reduce congestion and achieve performance. 

Look for Interference: 

Interference from other electronic devices or physical obstructions can affect signal quality for wireless networks. Therefore, use different channels or frequencies to reduce interference. 

Lastly, Ensure Security and Updates 

Regular updates and security checks are important to maintaining network stability and security. 

Update Firmware and Software: 

Make sure all networking equipment has the latest firmware and software updates. Updates from software companies oftentimes include bug fixes and improvements in performance. 

Scan for Malware: 

Periodically run malware scans on all devices. This is to prevent performance issues and connectivity problems caused by malicious bots. 

Check Security Settings: 

Investigate the security settings on routers and firewalls. Make sure they are properly configured and that no unauthorized changes have occurred. Strong security settings help protect against external threats. 

Need Expert IT Support and Services? 

Smooth business operations rely on a great network. To avoid costly downtime and ensure optimal network performance. Hence, consider partnering with IT support and services professionals. Here at EBSolution, we offer comprehensive cybersecurity and IT management services to keep your network in top shape. Schedule your consultation with us so we can discuss in-depth your needs and our solutions. 

Get in touch today!