Most problems encountered when routing and switching can be solved using Google and StackExchange. However, you may want to consult Cisco Network Consulting and Support Services if you do not have the time or ability to do so. Here are three common problems you may encounter when routing and switching LAW/WAN.
Using the Wrong Cables
To the untrained eye, most computer cables look alike. It can be frustrating for experienced IT professionals who essentially need to start from step one when fixing problems, and switching out all cables is a big job.
On a simplistic level, a cable is manufactured so two electronic devices can communicate with each other, but the cable needs to be correct. Improper cables can interfere with device functionality as a result. If an improper cable is used, the router and the switch cannot communicate with each other and Internet connectivity will suffer.
When routing and switching LAN/WAN, use cable couplers, like the RJ45 female coupler. Connect cables one at a time to check and ensure functionality. If you are cross-cabling, only use cables when you need to connect male ports to female ports.
Bad Modules
A module is “bad” when it is not recognizable by the server it is connected to. You can also have a bad module if you purchase an incorrect module, or use the wrong module for your cables and cable connectors. Due to the many possibilities as to why a bad module may appear, it may be confusing at first how you should solve this.
Problems like these when routing and switching LAN/WAN require some knowledge of IT. If you are untrained in IT, it may be a good idea to call Cisco Network Consulting and Support Services to fix this problem quickly and efficiently.
If you would like to fix a bad module yourself, first ensure you have all the right, compatible equipment. Research the different routing and switching hardware you have to make sure it is. If you have purchased the correct equipment, insert a new module to see if the router or switch you are using recognizes it. This should be an automatic process. If not, or a connection fails to be established, use a module you know works. If this fails, you may need to replace your router, switch, or fibre optic cable.
A Wrong Gateway
You may experience a router and switch that works on a host network but not a remote one. This is an issue referred to as a “wrong gateway” problem. Essentially, your router and switch can communicate with your host networks because it is your own network segment and under your control. However, remote networks require a connection so you may find difficulties connecting to hosts on a remote network.
To fix this, you will need to set up a DLINK switch in placement of your own. If this does not work, try using the DLINK switch in bridge mode, which will allow you to link between both host and remote networks.
If you encounter a wrong gateway problem but you have some connectivity, it may be that you are using more than one router. You have set the wrong router to be the default gateway and need to designate that task to a different router.
When working in IT, you will encounter seemingly banal issues every day. Luckily, computers operate on pure logic, which means there is always a straightforward answer to solving any problem. However, even when operating logically, some problems take time to learn about and understand. If you do not have the time or ability to spend on networking issues, it is advised to call Cisco Network Consulting and Support Services.
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