Is it my Device or is it my Internet Connection? Here’s How to Determine if you are Having Wifi Issues.

In today's era of ever growing technology people are streaming, downloading, and uploading content to the internet at a never before seen rate. With this change comes the critical issue of making sure that your devices can access the internet wherever or whenever you need it. It can be incredibly frustrating for your connection to go out in the middle of checking emails or watching your favorite Netflix program. When trying to solve this problem you may ask yourself “Is it my device or is it my internet connection?” Before you call your Internet Service Provider here are some easy ways to know what your issue is and how The Orchard can help!

Problems with the device. (computer, phone, streaming box, ect.) 

Does the issue only occur on one or a few devices?

If the issue is only related to one or a few devices odds are it is not your router. The Orchard team can help resolve this issue through software support either at home or in one of our retail locations. 

Does this device have the same issues when connected to different internet sources?

If the connection issue persists when you travel or when the device is connected to a different internet source, then it is likely to be caused by the device. Your phone or computer may need diagnostics from one of our certified Technicians in order to triage the component causing the issue.

Does the device connect to the internet when plugged directly into your modem via the Internet?

More specifically, if the device can connect to the internet when directly plugged in but fails to connect via Wifi, you may be experiencing hardware or software issues related to the part of your device that connects it to the internet wirelessly. As a follow up to this question you should check whether or not features like bluetooth and AirPlay are functioning properly. If not, it's time to call or The Orchard.

Problems with your Internet Connection. (modem, router, access point, ect.)

Can your device identify other wifi networks in the area?

If your device can identify other local wireless networks but cannot connect to a specific network chances are the problem is with your system. As long as your modem and router are functioning properly, and they are correctly assigned by your Internet Service Provider, your device should be able to identify it as easily as other local networks. If you are having this issue, The Orchard Onsite team can help by reconfiguring your current networking devices or installing new equipment without having to contact your internet Service Provider.

Does your internet connection seem to vary greatly between rooms?

If this occurs, it’s very likely that you have the wrong equipment for the job. Most networking manufactures recommend multiple access points or a mesh system when there are walls and doors separating the modem from the rest of the building. The Orchard Onsite Team can provide a detailed connection report using internet speed tests to know exactly where you are experiencing places of low connection. With this information we know exactly where to put additional access points for the best coverage. 

Does your internet signal randomly disconnect?

Outages in internet signal can mean a multitude of issues but it usually means your network equipment is going out or it is insufficient for your internet demands. The Orchard Onsite team partners with manufacturers like Netgear and Ubiquiti to provide an equipment package tailor made for your needs.

Maybe a little bit of both.

Does your device connect to the Wifi network but is unable to connect to the internet?

An issue like this can be complicated to diagnose but not to worry! We have professionals on staff that trained to resolve situations such as this. The Orchard onsite team is capable of addressing all parts of your network system and getting you back up and running. We will even contact your Internet Service Provider and troubleshoot problems with them so that you don't have to worry about any technical understandings.

Whatever your networking needs are, it is our mission to keep you connected, streaming, downloading, and uploading. Before you contact your Internet Service Provider, let us worry about your Wifi, so that you can get back to your zoom calls and online gaming with ease.