Not many Internet users think about the network routers they’re using. They’re out of sight, out of mind when they’re working but cause a slew of frustrations if they ever fail. Even with the most durable and reliable hardware, issues are bound to pop up every now and again.
For most issues, simply resetting the router (unplugging it, waiting a few seconds, and plugging it back in) works well enough, but if your equipment is being stubborn, there are plenty of other parts to check.
Router Configuration
As wireless technology progresses, networking equipment ends up needing to support various transmission standards. Juniper routers are among those with support for newer modes for higher bandwidth and older ones for backward compatibility since both the client and the router must support the same standard.
For instance, if your desktop can only support the 802.11g network mode, it would not work with a Juniper router set to 802.11ac mode necessarily. Whether you’re using g, ac, b, n, or any other setting, ensure both machines agree on the same one. If in doubt, use the “mixed” mode if your router supports it.
There’s also the separate setting radio bands. Most routers can transmit either a 2.4 GHz or a 5 GHz signal. While one isn’t inherently faster than the other in most cases, many other devices use the 2.4 GHz band. Switching to the 5 GHz band on your router can reduce the possibility of interference. Keep in mind that the device you’re connecting to the network must support 5G as well. Generally, routers will separate the bands into two separate Wi-Fi networks, with “5G” added to the end of one option.
And next, you have MAC addresses. Some administrators set the router to only connect devices with certain MAC addresses, so if your brand new laptop can’t connect, add the device’s MAC address to the whitelist. You can also disable MAC filtering entirely through the router settings.
Overheating
Like all electronics, heat reduces the lifespan of your Juniper router. Heat can build up through constant heavy load (which is common in businesses), causing crashing and disconnections. To prevent any heat-related issues:
- Keep the router in a cool, dry place
- Give the device room for ventilation
- Keep the ambient temperature of the room relatively low
- Reposition the router away from heat sources like a desktop or radiator
Loose Cables
It may seem silly, but cables can become loose because of someone’s tripping over them. Jostle each connection leading to the router to ensure it stays firmly in place. The cables to look out for are:
- The power cable for the router
- The power cable for the modem
- The cable between the router and modem
- The Ethernet connection leading from the router to any devices
Repositioning the Router
Where you place your router can have a large impact on your signal strength. In addition to plain distance, metal objects, microwaves, and cordless phones can interfere with the signal. Consider these factors when you decide where to place it.
Also, position the antennas vertically rather than horizontally to optimize signal spread.
Replacing Outdated Equipment with a New Juniper Router
Routers will eventually degrade over time and require replacement. If you’re considering retiring your current router, try as a last resort:
- Updating the router’s firmware, which may contain bug fixes
- Reset to factory settings through a specialized switch somewhere on the router
Otherwise, it’s time to go shopping.
About Netcon Solutions – Serving Toronto, the GTA, and All of Ontario
If you’re searching for networking solutions for your business in the Toronto or GTA, contact Netcon Solutions. Our services will provide you with the most cost-effective and reliable parts, from Juniper switches and routers to components from HP and Dell among other top-selling brands.
- Routers are an essential part of business networking but can be difficult to troubleshoot.
- Check your router’s configuration, placement, and cables if you suffer from disconnections.
- Netcon Solutions is your one-stop solution for business networking, from part sourcing to professional maintenance.