Check for Internet Connection

  • Thread starter Thread starter Wayne Wengert
  • Start date Start date
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Wayne Wengert

Using WinXP/SP2 is there a recommended way to check to see if there is an
Internet connection? We have a system that uses a Comcast connection. All
too often, that connection fails and we need to get Comcast to re-start it.
Other times, the system simply can't open some pages or such and we just
need to re-boot it. Right now, we open a command window and ping some known
IP address such as 4.2.2.1 to determine if we have an Internet connection.

Is there a better way to do this?

Wayne
 
Wayne said:
Using WinXP/SP2 is there a recommended way to check to see if there is
an Internet connection? We have a system that uses a Comcast
connection. All too often, that connection fails and we need to get
Comcast to re-start it. Other times, the system simply can't open some
pages or such and we just need to re-boot it. Right now, we open a
command window and ping some known IP address such as 4.2.2.1 to
determine if we have an Internet connection.

Is there a better way to do this?

Wayne
Click to expand...

The best way is to fix the underlying problem. Troubleshoot it on your
end by first:

1. Swap out the ethernet cable to the cable modem for a known-working
one.

2. Swap out the ethernet adapter for a known-working one. Set the
adapter's power management to off. Do this by finding the adapter in
Device Manager, right-clicking to get its Properties, clicking on the
Power Management tab and uncheck "Allow Windows to turn off this device
when not in use".

3. Make sure the computer is completely virus/malware-free since malware
can definitely negatively impact connectivity:
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Removing_Malware

4. If using a router, it may need to be replaced.

5. If all is well on your end, then insist that Comcast come out and
check their on-site equipment - the cable modem and also the equipment
at the street. A client of mine was constantly losing her Comcast
connection and after the Comcast tech came out, he discovered that
their equipment outside was constantly overheating. They made the fix
and she hasn't had a problem since.

6. To quickly determine if you are online, open a web browser or:
Start>Run>cmd [enter]
ping www.yahoo.com [enter]

Malke
 
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