When our Internet goes down, the first thing we are tempted to do is call our Internet service provider. While this may be sometimes necessary, most problems can be fixed by allowing your hardware to reset itself. If the Internet gets bogged down or goes out completely, try these simple tricks.
First, with almost any computer problem, power down. Use the proper procedure for shutting your computer down and let it sit a few minutes before powering back up. This will restart all the processes in the computer, and will usually fix most glitches that affect the computer.
If the problem is related to the Internet, you might need to allow your modem to reset in the same way. Power down the computer and disconnect all of the wires from your modem. Be sure to pull the power cord first. Allow the modem to sit unplugged for at least three minutes. Then plug it back up. Be sure to plug the power cord in last.
After your modem is plugged back in, power your computer back up. In the majority of cases, this power restart, or cold boot, will fix the glitches in your computer and modem.
Water and moisture are big enemies of electronics. If you frequently keep a cup of coffee or other drink near your computer, make sure there is a barrier to keep the spills from getting into your computer hardware.
Soft drinks are especially hazardous to computer hardware. The sugar and syrup are death sentences to most keyboards. Consider putting a plastic cover over your keyboard to protect it if you drink soft drinks at your desk.
Dust and pet hair are also computer killers. It can clog the fans and other components. Aerosol cans of air are effective for cleaning the interior and exterior of your computer keyboard and box. A gentle dust vacuum can also get small particles out of a keyboard.
Be sure to remove your computer cover from time to time and dust pet hair off of the fans. Over time, pet hair will damage and eventually destroy computer fans.