Wireless Router

Steve Haynie

Steve Haynie

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In the past two days my computer has lost its network connection to the Internet. The wireless router is showing all the correct lights. If I unplug the USB WiFi adapter from its docking cradle and plug it back in the wireless connection is found again. How often do parts like the adapter go bad?

The specs do not list Windows 10. If I install Windows 10 is my computer going to run into a connectivity problem?

 
when was the last time you updated the software on your router?

I used to have a Dlink router and it was horrible for puking out and needing updates all the time...very frustrating. I shitcanned it and upgraded to Xfintiys X1 system

 
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You might check for a firmware update on the router. Pull up your router's interface (typically 192.168.1.1 in a browser) and there should be a menu choice to check.

I am sorry if you already knew / tried all of that.

ETA: Brent beat me to it! /emoticons/default_biggrin.png

 
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I agree if it's an old router, get a new one. If the USB adapter is old, then replace them both. The current Asus routers get some good reviews - good speed and coverage. And the newer stuff will likely support Win 10 for you.

 
I've been through a small pile of Linksys WRT54G routers. Those would crap out religiously on me every 1.5-2 years (massive packet loss, dropping wifi connections, etc). I kept buying them because they were cheap and I could redeploy one quickly from the backup file. I finally jumped ship on the last go around, and bought a DLink a couple years ago. Its still running, but coverage to one room has always been an issue with that one...

They don't make stuff like they used to! Don't get me started on home stereo receivers... /emoticons/default_smile.png

offmylawn.gif


 
Just curious why you're using a USB wifi adapter instead of plugging in directly or using your computer's built-in wifi?

 
That would be my question as well. Is this a laptop or a desktop? The wireless router should work with any operating system theoretically. The standards for wireless networking are independent of operating system.

 
Yep they get flakey. I replace mine every 2 years or so. Just had to make an emergency replacement of the $200+ switch that was installed for our POS system at our restaurant. Bought 2 4 port switches for $30 each and just have an extra on hand for when one of the others go. Can't use the registers if the network is down.

 
I was also replacing the Netgear router every year or two. Those things are garbage. Finally replaced it with an ASUS RT-AC68U, and haven't looked back. Solid coverage throughout the house and the back yard. Hasn't flaked on me once in close to a year now. Friggin' fast, too. According to Speedtest.net, I'm getting consistent 120Mb+ down / 25Mb up wirelessly in my basement office (Router on main floor). Service is Comcast.

 
My computer is a desktop. AT&T pushed me into UVERSE, and when the installer came into my office she said I could either get a cable run through the ceiling and down the wall (looking like crap), or she could put in a wireless router. So, we went with the wireless hookup. If I have to buy a new router in addition to the adapter I will. The business runs on an Internet connection.

I took computer programming/networking classes a decade ago and rarely use anything that I learned.

 
If it's ATT gear, aren't you just renting it? Have you called them to come out and replace their gear?

FWIW, ATT does pretty nice installs when they can. Are you sure a hardwire would look like crap? Gawd knows it would look like crap from a cable installer, but ATT can usually do a good job.

PS... I have no affiliation with ATT.

 
Steve Haynie said:
My computer is a desktop. AT&T pushed me into UVERSE, and when the installer came into my office she said I could either get a cable run through the ceiling and down the wall (looking like crap), or she could put in a wireless router. So, we went with the wireless hookup. If I have to buy a new router in addition to the adapter I will. The business runs on an Internet connection.

I took computer programming/networking classes a decade ago and rarely use anything that I learned.
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I hate when the installers say stuff like that just because they don't want to do the work. They're supposed to be installers. I've heard Verizon installers say they would have to "drill big holes in the wall" to older folks to scare them off of getting the router in the house, not the garage. Maybe complain to AT&T, though not sure if that would do anything.

Asus makes USB adapters as well, though I haven't used them, but if they're on par with the routers, you should be good.

 
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Apple Airport Extreme, a little spendy ($200) but powerful signal and rock solid stability. Not necessary to have Apple devices. I went through many routers over the years, this Apple one is going on 4 years ryunning and never Ever has any problems. Its like the Hamer of routers!

 
maxpat said:
Apple Airport Extreme, a little spendy ($200) but powerful signal and rock solid stability. Not necessary to have Apple devices. I went through many routers over the years, this Apple one is going on 4 years ryunning and never Ever has any problems. Its like the Hamer of routers!
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About 8 years on mine, IIRC. More than 6 for sure.

 
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