At some point, a computer can stop functioning, and you can’t find out why. This can be frustrating if it happens to your PC. But it will be more disastrous when you face problems with your network. Irrespective of how you try to ensure things run smoothly, the network will always mess with you. Fortunately, you can solve some of the common issues associated with the network on your own.
In this blog post, we’ll talk about 7 common network problems that can occur and share the best tips on how to resolve and stop them from reoccurring. Here we go!
1. IP Exhaustion
This is a common problem, and you’ll need to use a configuration command to resolve it. If a workstation automatically allocated itself an IP address that starts with 69.x.x.x, this shows that there was no IP in the DHCP server. If you don’t have a local router, your IP address is allocated directly to the ISP. Maybe you don’t have any accessible IP addresses. So, the easiest fix is to find a Wi-Fi access point or a router. You’ll be able to build your local address pool.
If you have a router with DHCP, the default IP pool will be smaller for your network. In this case, adjust the size of the pool according to the requirement of the network. You can do this by accessing the DHCP settings of the router.
How to Prevent It: Ensure that a network linked to the net comes with a local router that uses DHCP and NAT. This will avoid exhaustion IP and also assist in protecting your data. Bear in mind that the only gadget that should be linked to the modem is a router. Other gadgets will link through the router.
2. Duplicate IP
When several gadgets use one IP address, the error message “Address already in use” will pop up. This won’t allow you to use the network. In most cases, it’s the default DHCP configuration of the router that brings this error. Maybe DHCP is trying to allocate a new gadget, an IP address, or even another PC may occupy those addresses with static ones. If you’ve installed a new device or a server to the network, it’s possible that it has its own DHCP server. Disable the DHCP server of the device to solve the issue.
Moreover, you may come across the “Ethernet doesn’t have a valid IP configuration” error message. This occurs because it can’t pick valid IP from the DHCP server. Nevertheless, before you try to fix the valid IP configuration problem, reboot the computer first. At many times, restarting your PC device can solve some of network-related issues. If it fails to work, try to reset the Winsock protocol together with TCP/IP settings.
How to Prevent It: To evade such IP address conflicts, modify the configuration of your router and allocate the DHCP address at the top edge of the subnet. It will leave a low address utilized and ready for those gadgets that need a static address.
3. Slow Application Response
This is a common problem for most business network experiences. It’s due to the high usage of bandwidth. You need to monitor your workers to make sure they aren’t downloading huge files or streaming a lot of content. Imposing proper network usage can be an ideal approach to improve your Internet speed.
How to Prevent It: Perhaps your workers are using the network well. The issue is that you are not providing enough bandwidth to run your business. In that case, upgrade your network to suit your business requirements.
4. Slow Internet Performance
This is happening due to poor-quality connections or congestion. A single overloaded port on a local router or a switch can reduce network performance. Use a speed test website to perform a test from remote servers. This helps you identify the regions of congestion on your network. You can then take the next step of reporting the results to your organization’s ISP to let them resolve the issue.
How to Prevent It: If the performance of the Internet doesn’t meet your requirements, you need to procure enough connectivity.
5. Single Workstation Can’t Connect to Your Network
If one workstation is showing the “No Internet” error while trying to access a browser, you can assume that another part of the network is okay and concentrate on software and hardware that is specific to the system. To solve this issue, begin by getting rid of communication obstacles, such as bad cables, failing network card, weak Wi-Fi signal, and incorrect drives. Make sure the network adapter of the workstation is configured with a proper subnet, DNS servers, and IP.
How to Prevent It: It’s always good to ensure all TCP/IP settings are automatically assigned. Utilize the DHCP server to deliver a uniform configuration to all gadgets on the network.
6. Absence of Connectivity
This happens to be the most common and annoying network issue. Most gadgets remain undetectable even if you follow the common naming regulations for computers and domains. If you haven’t started using TCP/IP, particularly with a home set up, its time you used it. This is because the functions and functionality it offers are unmatched.
How to Solve It: Ensure all gadgets are in one subnet with different IP. Verify that the file and printer sharing feature is working properly.
7. DNS Problems
This includes the errors, such as “DNS name does not exist”, “IP address could not be found” or “The network path cannot be found”. These errors can be traced to the DNS configuration problems. If this happens, you can configure network devices and workstations to utilize DNS servers. Check the TCP/IP settings for the adapter to find out if an inappropriate DNS server is stated.
How to Prevent It: Maybe the local router is configured to utilize its DNS servers, making a DNS pass-way to the ISP server. This may overload the abilities of this router on a busy network. Change the DHCP settings of your network to access the DNS servers directly.
Conclusion
There are thousands of resources on the Internet that can help you troubleshoot and fix any network problem. In this blog post, we highlighted some common network issues and how you can solve them. Even if the problem may seem like it does not pose any harm, don’t take it lightly, particularly if you run a business. Create a strong IT team that will prevent various network errors. If you’re a frequent user, you can handle these issues on your own with some effort and time, as these problems are solvable.
