I cannot connect to the Internet.What can I try?

You would not believe how often I get this question.  If I got had a dollar for every time I heard this one, I would be a millionaire.  Okay, maybe not, but I can give you a simple way to correct most problems in your network. 

Many times, something goes wrong with the router, or the Cable/DSL/U-verse modem.  These issues can cause the computer to not “see” the Internet correctly.  The steps below will help you reset your network so that you have the highest chance of solving the problem.  There are six steps below which need to be done in the correct order:

1. Properly turn off all the computers on your network.  How you do this depends on the version of Windows your computer is using.  Click here to see a recent blog post on how to properly shutdown your computer.
2. Remove power from your router.  If you do not have a router, skip this step.  The power cord is usually a round black plug in the back of the router.  Simply pull the power cord out of the router.
3. Remove power from your cable modem, DSL modem, or U-verse Modem.  The power cord is usually a round black plug in the back of the modem.  Simply slip the power cord out of the modem.  Do not confuse the power cord with the one for the router.  Even if they fit, they are not interchangeable.
4. Wait 30 seconds.  Insert the power cord for the modem back into the modem.
5. Wait 30 seconds.  Insert the power cord for the router back into the router.  If you don't have a router, skip this step.
6. Wait 30 seconds.  Start your computer(s).

Your network should now be functioning correctly and the computers should be online.  Should you still have problems, contact me.

How do I properly shutdown my computer?

In my first post, I explained how restarting your computer will resolve most computer issues you come across.  In this post, I will explain how to properly shutdown your computer.  Many users think it is okay to just unplug the computer from the wall. Others push the power button to turn the computer off. Both of these can damage the configuration, the data, or the hardware of the computer. 

There are many variances to powering down a computer, depending upon your system and settings; should the following instructions not match your computer, please contact me for assistance:

For Windows 7, click on Start, then click Shutdown.  On some Windows 7 computers, you must click Start, then click on the arrow to the right of shutdown, then click Shutdown.

For Windows Vista, click on Start, then click Shutdown.  On some Windows Vista computers, you must click Start, then click on the arrow to the right of lock symbol, then click Shutdown.

For Windows XP, Click on Start, click on Turn Off Computer (or Shut Down), then click Turn Off (or Shutdown) again.

Should you have any questions, contact me.