The most common reasons a home network disconnects frequently are listed below. Carefully work your way through this list to determine the cause of your issues.

• Your Internet speed may be too slow. If you are running multiple devices at the same time but lack the correct speed to accommodate them all, your Internet connection could be dropping as a result of the overload. Check your Internet connection by running a speed test to see if it matches the package you are paying for from your Internet Service Provider (ISP). You may want to speak with your ISP about upgrading if necessary.
• Your modem isn’t communicating with your ISP. Your modem is what connects your home to the wider Internet. If your modem isn’t properly communicating with your ISP, frequent drops will occur. Disruptions in your connection could be due to the area or your equipment. Check your modem and wire connections to ensure they are in good shape. You may need to contact your ISP to test your modem or possibly replace it if it’s not properly communicating with the network.
• An outdated Wi-Fi router. This is the most common problem. The average lifespan of a Wi-Fi router is five years. Many ISPs provide the router and you may simply need to contact them to have yours replaced.
• The network is having technical difficulties. A choppy Internet connection could be the result of a wider network issue that you have little control over. Networks get bogged down or experience issues due to weather, location, etc. If you are experiencing frequent network connection issues, report it to your ISP.

Contact Geeks on Site to assist with your home network and Wi-Fi setup and troubleshooting to ensure you have a secure and reliable connection.

Trying to work or socialize online when your Internet is moving at a snail’s pace is beyond frustrating but there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the problem.

1. Make sure the problem actually is your Internet connection and not just the website you are trying to view. Do this by trying to access a different website. If the second website is just as difficult to access, your Internet connection may be the issue.
2. Run a virus/malware scan to make sure these aren’t causing your Internet to slow. Make sure your scan removes any of these issues.
3. Consider your location. Are you on a public access Wi-Fi network? If so, it may be overcrowded, and you will need to find a better location to access the Internet.

Other factors to consider:

• Your Internet connection also may be slow because something – most often a device or appliance – is obstructing signals from your Wi-Fi router. Try moving your router and modem to a space that is not closed in or near other machinery.
• Your Internet connection could also be running slow because your Wi-Fi router is not capable of providing the speed you require. Use a 5 GHz router, rather than a 2.5 GHz router, for the best results when you are prioritizing speed rather than access to a range of signals.
• Check that you don’t have too many devices connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that you aren’t using a coaxial splitter. Both of these issues will cause your Internet connection to slow down.
• It’s also possible that the number of apps and software programs installed on your device is slowing its Internet connection. Make sure to remove any that you are not using.
• Checking with your Internet service provider is often a good idea as it could be a problem stemming from their end.

If you are still experiencing a slow Internet connection, call Geeks on Site at (888) 799-4335. Our experienced techs will be happy to assist you in fixing your slow Internet issues so you can get your work done as efficiently as possible.

A home network is a type of network that connects multiple computers to each other.

A home network is useful because you can share resources between multiple machines over a single Internet connection and security settings. Setting up a home network may seem like a complicated task but with a few simple steps, you will be up and running quickly and effectively.

Before you get started, determine what type of connection you will need based on your usage. If you are looking to connect a couple of laptops and wireless devices to your network, you will probably be fine with a standard connection whether hard wired or wireless.

Before you start setting up your network, you need to have an Internet connection, Ethernet hub or switch, and a wireless router.

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) will often supply you with a modem that has built-in Wi-Fi for a small monthly rental fee. You can use this option or you can purchase your own.

A technician from your ISP will likely set up your modem for you. You will need to ensure that the lights are properly lit, showing Internet activity. You can then log in to your router and set up your network name and password.

Connect all of your devices to the network and begin browsing the Internet.

Need help getting your home network setup? Contact Geeks on Site today! We can help you get your home Wi-Fi network up and running in no time!

For a small business owner, setting up a dedicated on-premises server can seem like a complicated task. As businesses expand, the addition of a server becomes more necessary to store files safely, run applications, and so much more.

For businesses without a dedicated IT Department, server installation can seem even more daunting but if you follow a few simple tips, your server will be set up properly and serving your business quickly.

Purchase from a Reputable Business

When selecting what size server fits your business’s needs, lean on professionals to help guide you to a server that can grow with you. If you have a clear road map for your business it should be easy to assume what your needs will be in the next few years so purchase for that.

The Right Storage for Your Server

Storing your server can become a challenge if you do not invest in proper rack mount storage. A rack-mount has shelves, drawers, and other items that are specifically designed for mounting onto servers for safe keeping and easy accessibility. Keeping your server room organized from the onset will have long term benefits.

Find a Quiet Place to House Your Server

Servers are noisy and require additional cooling which can be distracting in a small office. If a small room is available, consider adding your server to this space so that it is away from your employees and not a distraction. If a separate space is not available, a server can be placed in the corner of a room where there is less chance of it distracting your team.

Manage Wires and Label Everything

Keep your server organized by labeling everything and keeping the wires organized and easy to manage. Having to locate a specific wire when you are trying to work on something can be easily avoided if cable management is properly done in the beginning.

Your router is one of the most important pieces of your home network so it is important that you pick the right one to fit your needs. Most Internet service providers (ISP), such as Comcast or AT&T, will provide their customers with routers. Unfortunately, these are usually not feature rich models and you are forced to pay a monthly rental fee for them.

For homes that have a lot of devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, TVs, etc. that are going to be accessing the Internet, purchasing a more powerful router than the one supplied by your ISP is a great option.

For a wired setup:

To set up your router, connect one end of the Ethernet cable to your modem and the other end to your Internet, Uplink, WAN or WLAN port on the router and then connect your computer to the router using an Ethernet cable. Reboot your computer and upon startup, your computer should detect that you are connected to the Internet.

For a wireless setup:

Before you get started, make sure you have a wireless router. Plug the Ethernet cable into your modem and connect it to the Internet, Uplink, WAN, or WLAN port on the router. Once the Internet, WAN, or WLAN lights up, the router is successfully connected to your modem. Restart your computer and upon startup, your computer should detect that you are connected to the Internet.

A computer network is a collection of more than two computers that are linked together via communication channels and share resources between them.

Network computers can include switches or routers to exchange information and transport data to an endpoint. There are many types of computer networks including a personal network, local area network, or wide area network.

Many network systems can be used for general purposes, such as sending files to a printer or accessing the Internet while some networks serve a strategic purpose such as a storage area network or a private enterprise network.

Here are some common networks:

• Personal Area Networks (PAN) – a computer network that is organized around a single building or individual. A personal area network may be located within a private residence or a small office. If multiple individuals use the same network within their residence, it may be referred to as a home network.
• Local Area Network (LAN) – consists of many computer networks at a single location such as an office building. LANs are very useful for sharing resources, such as storage or printers.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) – often consists of many computer networks spread across a city or college campus. Depending on the infrastructure, a MAN can run over several miles.
• Wide Area Network (WAN) – span larger areas than a MAN and can cover an entire country or the world. The Internet is the most obvious example of a WAN.

To set up a computer network, confirm that you have the necessary equipment such as a cable or DSL Internet connection and a wireless router.

• Obtain the router’s default user name, or SSID, and password, along with the router’s web address. This information is usually provided when the device is purchased.
• Connect a cable modem to the live cable jack or DSL modem to a live phone line.
• Connect the wireless router to the modem.
• Connect the host computer to the wireless router using a network USB or Ethernet cable.
• Configure the wireless router by opening the web browser and typing in the URL or IP address to access the router’s configuration page.
• Follow the steps on the configuration page including setting up a name for your network and providing a security key or password.
• In order to keep your network secure, select the setting you wish to use such as “WPA” or “WPA 2.”
• Connect your other machines to the same network.

Are you having trouble setting up a properly functioning network? We can help! Give Geeks on Site a call at 1-888-799-4335 and we’ll walk you through the process of setting up your network, anytime 24/7.

A Wi-Fi connection has a lot of benefits over a wired one. An untethered device gives us the option to roam freely around our home or access the Internet when we are running around town. Connecting to Wi-Fi is simple – as long as you have the password to the network you wish to join.

Here is what you will need before joining a Wi-Fi network:

• A Wi-Fi enabled computer or mobile device.
• The network name that you want to join.
• The password for the network that you want to join.

The first step to successfully completing a Wi-Fi setup is to ensure the device you are on has a wireless network connection. Most modern computers do, including desktops. The steps to accessing the Wi-Fi network that you’re looking for may vary by device but they are generally the same.

To add a Wi-fi network, access the Wi-Fi settings on your device and make sure that it is set to “on”. Once your device is enabled and ready to connect, locate the network you wish to join from the display of available networks within range. Some networks may require a password while others are unlocked. If it is required, enter the network password and click “Join” or “Connect”. If you are accessing a public Wi-Fi network, such as those at hotels or coffee shops, you may need to go through a security check. If this is the case, all you need to do is launch your web browser and follow any steps required in order to join Wi-Fi.

A desktop computer can be connected to a Wi-Fi connection just as easily as a laptop or cellphone. Depending on the type of device you are on, connecting to Wi-Fi may vary but the basics remain the same.

In order to connect a desktop or PC to Wi-Fi, you will need to make sure your desktop has a wireless network adapter. Check for the wireless network adapter by selecting the “Start” button, typing “device manager” in the search box, and selecting “Device Manager” when it appears. Expand “Network adapters” and look for/select a network adapter with the word “wireless” in the name.

You will then need to position your wireless router where it will receive the strongest signal with the least amount of interference.

The benefits of connecting a desktop to wireless network connection include being able to set your workspace up anywhere that there is a power outlet rather than being limited to where the modem is. Connecting a desktop via Wi-Fi means you no longer have to physically connect the modem to the desktop computer.

If you have questions regarding your computer Wi-Fi, or you need help with Wi-Fi setup for your PC, contact Geeks on Site today!

Newer model PCs come with Wi-Fi ability built in through a wireless network adapter that is installed in the PC. Although some users prefer to connect to the network via hardwire, accessing the network wirelessly comes with the added convenience that you can connect from anywhere at any time. Today, the ability to set up a workstation wherever is most comfortable rather than being tethered to where the modem is can be invaluable.

Before you get started, make sure you have a working Wi-Fi connection where you are. You will also need the network name and the security key or password in order to complete a Wi-Fi setup for your PC.

When you are ready to set up your PC workstation and connect to the Wi-Fi, click on the “Start” button on your PC, go to “Control Panel,” and open “Network Connections.” Under “Network Tasks,” click “Create New Connection,” and then click “Next.”

Select the network that you wish to join and then enter the security code or password when prompted. From this point on, your PC will begin connecting to your Wi-Fi connection.

You can now begin browsing the Internet.

Your Smart TV is only smart when it is connected to the Internet.

Your TV will need Internet access to take advantage of streaming services, music, and other online content you enjoy.

The best way to do this is via your Wi-Fi network.

1. Access your TV’s menu by pressing the menu button on its remote. Menu options should appear on the screen.
2. Select “Network Settings” – this will allow you to choose your connection type and to program a new Internet connection.
3. Select the option to set up a new wireless network connection on your TV screen. You should now see a list of all the Wi-Fi networks nearby – including yours.
4. Select your network’s name from the list and enter your password when prompted.
5. Your TV should now show that it is connected to your Wi-Fi network.

Having trouble connecting your TV to Wi-Fi?

Contact the professional IT technicians at Geeks on Site to do it for you.

Call (888) 799-4335 today!