We usually get the message “Page cannot be display” or Error 404 “server not found” when the Internet Connection is down. This can be such a hassle, especially when we badly need to go online. After getting that error message, we usually call our Internet service provider (ISP) for assistance. I’m sure you’re familiar with the long hours of waiting just to get a representative to talk to you. Worry no more because this article can give you some pointers that are very useful in resolving your internet connection problems.

There are several causes to this and thankfully, there are even more ways to fix it. Let’s begin by power cycling the equipment. This procedure requires you to turn off your Computer, Modem and wireless router (if applicable). It doesn’t matter in what order you do the procedure. Leave it off for at least 30 seconds to a minute. The correct sequence of powering up the equipment is to wait at least 30 seconds before turning on each device. Start with the modem then the wireless router (if applicable) and lastly, the computer.

Check on the light indicators if the modem lights go green. If you don’t see the lights turn on, check if the power cable is plugged in to the power outlet. Also, check if the modem cables are properly seated in the ports. If that still doesn’t work, try plugging the modem in a different power outlet. If these steps fail to resolve your issue, the modem might be defective.

If sequence power cycling won’t work but the modem is working properly, this is the time to troubleshoot the computer. For Windows XP systems, right-click on your Local Area Connection (LAN) located on the right-hand corner of your screen. Then click on “repair”. Another way is to click on Start > Control Panel > Network Connection > Local Area Connection > Support tab > Repair. This should renew the IP Address of your connection. Sometimes you will get a message that says “unable to renew the IP address”. You may also use command prompt for resetting the IP address. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > right-click on Command Prompt > click on “Run as Administrator” > type in “netsh winsock reset”. If it successfully executed the command, it should inform you to restart the computer. Turn-off the computer, restart it and check if you now have an internet connection.

Use different web browsers, instead of concentrating on Internet explorer. Consider browsers like Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox. If you can connect to the internet using a different browser, your Internet explorer (IE) might be corrupted or infected by a virus. Try to optimize your IE by going to Start > Internet Option > delete cache and delete cookies. The last resort is to re-install your IE browser.

If all these steps still have not resolved you internet connection, you should contact your ISP for further resolutions. It is possible that there is a Network Outage happening within your area.