Basic Troubleshooting Routers and Hubs
A router or hub is the cornerstone of the average home network. An Ethernet hub, which has several Ethernet ports, lets users share folders and files among all of the computers connected to the home network. A router generally has a built-in hub and also has features that let it share a broadband Internet connection with the networked PCs. Routers also usually include other features, such as wireless connectivity and a hardware firewall that can protect your computers from many of the digital threats floating around the Web.
Because the router is the center of your network, many network problems can be traced back to it. A defective device, bad settings, old firmware, and firewall issues can all put your network on the blink. We’ll show you how to troubleshoot your router or hub so you can spot and fix common problems.
Know Your Model
To download the right updates, you’ll need to know the unit manufacturer and model number of your device. Many routers and hubs bear the model number on the front panel and other information, such as the serial number, on the bottom of the device.
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How To Tell If The Router Or Hub Is The Problem
You can determine whether your router is the source of your network troubles by eliminating other network devices as the problem sources. Chances are, there are only a few potential troublemakers beyond your router:
