Why is my computer dropping the internet intermittently

Hi,

Try downloading, installing and running a WiFi scanner program.

Here is a link to just one program available online (its free). There are others if this one doesn't suit, just search for WiFi scanner program.

http://www.techspot.com/downloads/5936-i...

This will give information regarding the following:

signal strength

(remember they are -ve dB values so the higher the number the lower the signal strength)

channel density

Most routers default setting is either CH 1, 6 or 11. If you are using one of these channels and there are other routers close by (as shown by the scanner program) using the same channel and they have a reasonable signal strength, it could interfere with your signalling. Change the router channel to a different "quieter" channel (less or no appearance in the scanner program) and see if it improves the stability of the connection.

2.4GHz or 5.8GHz

If you have the option, try using the 5.8GHz range as it will be less crowded. It does have a slightly decreased range as opposed to the 2.4GHZ range though.

Location

Check the location of both the router and the laptop. There may be sources of interference between the two, e.g. electrical appliance with high EMR, thick wall between the two reducing signal strength etc. If possible, try moving one or the other or both to obtain the best signal strength possible.

Some other things to check:

Check that the router has the latest firmware installed. Should be available from the router manufacturer's website.

Check that the WLAN adapter in your laptop has the latest drivers applicable to the OS installed. Should be available from the laptop manufacturer's (it is Dell isn't it?) website support page for your particular model.