Network/Internet Connection Problems

Problem: The computer will not connect to the network

Solution: The signs that the computer will not connect is usually you are unable to logon to the computer. Check the troubleshooting for logon problems.

Problem: I can no longer connect to a network share

Solution: There are folders that look like drives in My Computer or Windows explorer but are actually located on servers either on the LAN (Local Area Network) or WANT (Wide Area Network).  Two shares that should always be available are Public and your home directory, the H-drive.  The public directory is housed on a server in the high school.  If you are at another location and the WAN link between your building and the high school is down then this link will not be active.  Similarly, if your home directory is located at Hopkins Hill and you are logged in at Blackrock with the WAN link broken to Hopkins Hill your access to your home directory will be broken. If the server (computer) where the share is located is down then the link will be broken.

Problem: The computer cannot find the domain controller

Solution: You have lost connectivity to the network. This may be due to a network cable problem, NIC driver corruption, NIC damage, or at the other end with a network appliance problem.  Check to make sure that there is a light where the network cable plugs into the the computer.  First check rooms around you to see if they are experiencing the same problems. If so see if you can check the hub or switch your cable attaches to is powered on.  In must elementary schools these hubs are located in a nearby classrooms.  The high school and middle school have them located in locked closets.  You may need a janitor or administrator to check it out.

Problem: The network cable connection is not working

Solution: You can tell that the network cable is not connected to the network if a light is not on where the cable connects to the computer.  You should check the following: The network cable must be securely attached at both RJ45 connections (adapter and hub). The maximum allowable distance from adapter to hub is 100 meters. If the cable is attached and the distance is within acceptable limits but the problem persists, try a different cable. If you're directly connecting two computers without a hub or switch, use a crossover cable.
 

Problem: I keep losing my connection to the network or network resources

Solution: Check the LED Lights on the NIC. Before the LEDs can be used for troubleshooting, the network interface card (NIC) must be connected to the network and the network driver must be installed. Most NICs come with LEDs near the connection. The meaning of the LED signals may be different from one manufacturer to the other. Here is a common LED description for 3COM 10/100BT dual speed NIC. Please consult your NIC manual for any difference.