Many of us depend on the internet for communication. It has become the no. 1 source of information all over the world. When I was young, the library was my source of knowledge aside from experiences shared by my parents, friends and teachers. But now, I cannot live without my computer and internet service.
I went crazy when one time, my internet won't work! Thinking that my world is about to end, I checked my bill if they cut the service for non-pay. Good thing, it was not due yet. But still I cannot connect! As I read through my bill, I smiled and was relieved to see that there is a technical support number I can call if I encounter any issues with my service. And so I dialed.
As I talked to the support person, she asked me questions; that was so simple and yet so important that needs to be done.
As I listened and followed these simple steps, I was reminded of the times I ignored manuals and instructions written on the boxes of my equipments
- Shut down your computer then your modem/router. Wait for 1 minute before you turn them back on
- Check all filters and cables connected to your phone jack, modem/router and PC for tight fit. Especially the power cord!
- If you think power strip/surge is not working, plug in your equipment to another power outlet
- Check your phone if it has a dial tone (this goes for dial up and DSL users)
- Check your bill for due dates, make sure you have paid them before you complain why it got disconnected
When I got off the phone, I was laughing so hard. I said to myself how stupid I was for not checking the power cord! My modem was not on!
Knowing that I have a support people to call, I relied on them so much. Don't be shy to admit that you don't know what you're doing…most of us pretends that we did the right thing but actually doesn't really know what to do
When you call your support people, you may want to consider these things:
- Ask your internet service provider (ISP) what is the purpose of lights on your modem/router. It will help you identify where the problem is coming from
- Listen carefully and note down the troubleshooting steps that the support person ask you to do so that the next time you encounter the problem, you know what to do
- Ask if there is a problem coming from their end; like server issues or line problems. Natural calamities are the no. 1 cause of problems to the service
Every time I call the support people, I always learn something new.
Here are some common issues that you may encounter with your internet service:
- Slow connection problems can be line issues, server latency, possible virus infection or software conflicts; if your PC is the problem, consult your PC manufacturer or a specialist
- Connected but cannot browse: anti-virus and firewall can be over protective with your system. Disabling them for a few minutes won't hurt.
- Cannot connect for several hours or days; call your ISP (Internet Service Provider), ask them for any on going problems in your area or server; check your bill for due date; make sure modem is working and is properly plugged in to the power source
- Cannot send or receive emails: make sure your account is active. For computer based email such as Microsoft outlook, outlook express, eudora, netscape and the like, check with your ISP the right settings. If you're using free email (like hotmail, AOL or yahoo), check your spam guard or blocked addresses list. Your contacts might be on the list
- Cannot sign in to email: If you're using free email (like hotmail, aol or yahoo) make sure that you have accessed your email for the last 30 or 60 days and you are typing the right password
Other things that I learned from them are how I can give my self and my system security. Listed below is what can help you determine if your PC/internet is safe from harm.
- If you have wireless connection, make sure router firewall is on so that your connection cannot be hacked by others whose PC has wireless capability too
- When you buy a PC, ask the manufacturer if they installed an internet security for protection. If not, better buy and install one (personal firewall, anti-spy and anti-virus)
- Never give out or post your log in names and passwords
- Make sure that your internet security is updated and virus scan should be done everyday
- If you are not sure if you are downloading or installing programs that are compatible with your system, check with your equipment manufacturer
- Use licensed programs or software in your PC. Pirated copies gets corrupted easily
These are some of the things I can share with you based on my experiences. It's not bad to be internet dependent, just be cautious of the things that you may encounter.
