A business network is the lifeblood of operations. It’s the digital artery that pumps data through your organisation. It enables everything from email to critical applications and cloud services.
When problems sever that lifeline, the consequences can be catastrophic. Communication is cut off and productivity grinds to a halt. Additionally, it can leave your customers hanging and dry up revenue streams. This is the stark reality of network downtime.
When downtime happens, it’s important to identify the source as fast as possible. Understanding the issue can save you time, money, and countless headaches. Let’s get started on keeping your network up and running smoothly. Read on for six helpful tips to troubleshoot common business network issues.
1. Identify the Problem
Determine the Scope
First, determine the scope of the problem. Is it affecting a single user, a group of users, or the entire network? This helps you zero in on the cause, and potential solutions.
For instance, if only one user has issues, it might be a device problem. If the entire network is down, it’s likely a more significant issue.
Ask Questions
Check Error Messages
2. Inspect Physical Connections
Check Cables and Ports
Verify Power Sources
Inspect Network Devices
3. Test Network Connectivity
Use Ping and Traceroute
Use ping and traceroute commands to test network connectivity. These tools help identify where the connection fails. For example, if ping works locally but not remotely, the issue might be external.
Test Different Devices
Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength
If using Wi-Fi, check the signal strength. Weak signals can cause connectivity issues. Move closer to the router or access point and see if the connection improves. Consider using Wi-Fi analysers to identify signal strength and interference.
4. Analyse Network Configuration
Check IP Settings
Review DNS Settings
Inspect Router and Switch Configurations
5. Monitor Network Performance
Use Network Monitoring Tools
Check for Bottlenecks
Identify any network bottlenecks. High traffic or heavy usage can slow down the network. Consider upgrading bandwidth or optimising traffic flow to ease congestion.
Look for Interference
6. Ensure Security and Updates
Update Firmware and Software
Scan for Malware
Review Security Settings
Check security settings on routers and firewalls. Ensure proper configurations and that no unauthorised changes have occurred. Strong security settings help protect the network from external threats.
Need Help Optimising Your Business Network?
A reliable network is essential for business operations. Avoid costly downtime issues by working with our team to keep your network in top shape. We can put in place monitoring and other best practices. We’ll ensure your network runs smoothly and fully supports all your needs.
Contact us today to schedule a chat about improving your connectivity.