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Your Business Network: Keep It Running Smoothly

Your business network is like the heart of your operations. It keeps everything running—email, cloud services, and the tools you rely on daily. When something goes wrong, it can bring your business to a standstill, stopping communication and hurting productivity. Customers can be left waiting, and revenue might take a hit.

But you can avoid major downtime by knowing how to troubleshoot common problems. Here are six simple tips to keep your network up and running.


1. Spot the Problem

  • Who or What is Affected? Is it just one person, a group, or the whole network? If it’s one person, it might be their device. If it’s everyone, it could be a bigger issue.
  • Ask Questions: When did it start? What were they doing? Have they tried fixing it?
  • Look for Error Messages: Write down any error messages or alerts—they can provide big clues.

2. Check the Physical Setup

  • Cables and Connections: Are the cables plugged in securely? Are they damaged? Test cables to see if they work.
  • Power Issues: Are devices like routers and switches powered on? A quick restart might solve the issue.
  • Device Check: Look at routers and modems. Are the indicator lights normal? Restarting can often fix small glitches.

3. Test the Connection

  • Ping and Traceroute: Use these tools (or ask someone with IT know-how) to see where the connection fails.
  • Try Different Devices: Does the network work on another device? If it does, the problem might be with the first device.
  • Wi-Fi Strength: Weak signals can cause trouble. Move closer to the router or use a tool to check Wi-Fi strength.

4. Review Network Settings

  • IP Settings: Make sure devices have the right network settings. Incorrect settings can block the connection.
  • DNS Settings: If websites won’t load, check the DNS settings to ensure they’re set up correctly.
  • Router Configurations: Look at your router and switch settings for any changes or misconfigurations.

5. Keep an Eye on Performance

  • Monitoring Tools: Use tools to check traffic and bandwidth. They can highlight slowdowns and potential issues.
  • Bottlenecks: Heavy usage or too much traffic can slow your network. Upgrading your bandwidth might help.
  • Wi-Fi Interference: Electronics or walls can block signals. Changing channels or moving devices can improve performance.

6. Stay Secure and Updated

  • Firmware and Software: Keep your routers and devices updated with the latest software to fix bugs and improve performance.
  • Malware Scans: Malware can slow your network or cause other issues. Run regular scans with good antivirus software.
  • Security Settings: Check your router and firewall settings to ensure they’re protecting your network from threats.

Need a Hand with Your Network?

Your business relies on a strong, reliable network. Don’t let downtime hold you back. We can help you set up monitoring and best practices to keep everything running smoothly. Contact us today, and let’s make sure your network supports your business 24/7!

👉 Book Your Discovery Call Now

Featured Image Credit

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Lacy Moore