TV buffering sometimes? Video calls hanging for a few seconds? It could be because you are experiencing intermittent disconnections.

Generally experienced most over a Wi-Fi connection, this phenomenon is when the internet signal being sent to your device drops off for a second, causing any applications to pause until they receive the new signal.

But how do we fix this? Let’s look at some helpful tips on how we can resolve this problem.

• Step 1: Restarting the modem
  Restarting modems is a great way to get things running again. It could be that the modem has been left on for quite some time and by restarting it we can allow it to find more appropriate Wi-Fi channels to connect to, allowing for less interruptions.
• Step 2: Replacing Cables
  Over time Ethernet cables do get worn out, meaning the signal they are sending can be reduced or even interrupted. Check the cable for any knots, ensure that they are plugged in firmly, and if you have a spare one swap it over to see if that helps.
• Step 3: Checking for outages
  If the issue only just started happening, it could be because of an outage nearby. These outages resolve themselves once completed, however it is good to check this to eliminate it as a factor.
• Step 4: Change Modem placement
  If you have your modem down on the ground or behind heavy objects, it may be causing the Wi-Fi connections to become weaker. A weaker signal will often lead to more interruptions as it may struggle to provide a steady stream of data. Also ensure that there’s no other electronics nearby like a microwave or oven.
• Step 5: Run the Wi-Fi scanner tool
  The Wi-Fi scanner tool found on the Slingshot app is a great way to diagnose your Wi-Fi connections and modem, allowing it to provide more detailed responses on what could be causing the internet to drop off frequently.
• Step 6: Restart Devices
  Remember when we used to turn our mobile devices off and on? It seems these days we just leave them on indefinitely! Sometimes giving them a restart will help flush the IP settings so that it can take up a new allocation, as this may have been causing a conflict with the modem.
• Step 7: Add a Satellite to the network
  Satellites act as nodes on the network to help strengthen the Wi-Fi signal throughout your property. These devices are really great at eliminating frequent disconnections related to Wi-Fi signal drops. Get in touch with our team if you want to learn more! 

What should I do now?

If you find that you’ve performed all these steps, and you haven’t found a possible cause for your broadband issue, contact our team. We will complete some final checks with you before reporting a fault.