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    2 min read 8 stepsApril 2, 2026Verified April 2026

    How to Troubleshoot Network and Internet Issues

    Systematic steps to diagnose and fix internet connectivity problems on any device.

    In this guide (8 steps):

    1. 1.Check the basics first
    2. 2.Restart everything
    3. 3.Check for ISP outages
    4. 4.Test your connection
    5. 5.DNS troubleshooting
    6. 6.Wi-Fi specific fixes
    7. 7.When to call your ISP
    8. 8.When to replace your router
    1

    Check the basics first

    ~15s
    Is the problem on one device or all devices? If just one: the issue is with that device. If all: the problem is your router or ISP. Check if cables are plugged in and lights are on.
    2

    Restart everything

    ~15s
    Restart in this order: modem first (unplug 30 seconds), then router (unplug 30 seconds), then your device. Wait 2 minutes between each. This fixes 80% of connection problems.
    3

    Check for ISP outages

    ~15s
    Visit your ISP's status page or check DownDetector.com. If there's an outage, there's nothing you can do but wait. Check social media for reports from other customers.
    4

    Test your connection

    ~15s
    Visit speedtest.net. If you get a result, your internet works — the issue is specific to certain sites or apps. If the test fails, the problem is your internet connection.
    5

    DNS troubleshooting

    ~15s
    If websites don't load but speed test works: try changing DNS. Settings > Network > DNS: change to 8.8.8.8 (Google) or 1.1.1.1 (Cloudflare). This fixes many "site not found" errors.
    6

    Wi-Fi specific fixes

    ~15s
    Forget the network and reconnect. Move closer to the router. Check for interference (microwaves, baby monitors, thick walls). Try the 5 GHz band instead of 2.4 GHz.
    7

    When to call your ISP

    ~15s
    Your tested speed is much lower than what you're paying for. Connection drops frequently. Router lights show errors. You've restarted everything and tried all the above steps. They can check from their end.
    8

    When to replace your router

    ~15s
    If your router is more than 5 years old. If problems persist after ISP confirms no issues on their end. If you can't get good speeds even close to the router. Modern Wi-Fi 6 routers are dramatically better.

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    How to Troubleshoot Network and Internet Issues — Step-by-Step Guide | TekSure