Low internet connectivity

[Irishsquid]

You CAN still replace the NIC (network card) in a laptop...forget about the internal NIC, and just get a USB wireless card...that's your easiest and cheapest option. Other than that, MOST laptops do not have a Wireless NIC integrated into the motherboard. One of the removable panels on the bottom of the laptop should cover a small card, roughly 1.5-2 inches long, 1-1.5 inches wide, with one side inserted into a "slot," and the other side hooked to 2 wires. It may/will have an intel or other logo on it, depending on the brand of wireless adapter. It should be attached using 1-3 screws, and is easily replaced. Shouldn't be tough, but a USB adapter is still easier.

As for the network "crashing," after a few minutes, I understand it won't connect to webpages...does it still "say," it is connected? Either way, if it is working for a minute, then stopping, and you have good signal strength, and no obstructions, then I retract my previous statement about the OS having little to do with it.

Anymore information you give cannot do anything but help us help you. The more information I have, the more accurate my picture of the situation is, and the better I can troubleshoot.

[Draco771]

Originally Posted by Irishsquid

As for the network "crashing," after a few minutes, I understand it won't connect to webpages...does it still "say," it is connected? Either way, if it is working for a minute, then stopping, and you have good signal strength, and no obstructions, then I retract my previous statement about the OS having little to do with it.

Anymore information you give cannot do anything but help us help you. The more information I have, the more accurate my picture of the situation is, and the better I can troubleshoot.

That's why I asked if the Netcard has been replaced yet.

If the Netcard is totally fine and dandy, then it's a software issue, and not particularly hardware.

And regarding your callcenter comments, you are correct. majority of help desk personel etc. don't even have CompTIA A+/ETA-I CST.

I know this, because several friends from HS are working as help desk clerks, and barely know how to install a video game following onscreen directions. They even take apart people's computers they bring in, without a clue of what they are looking at. As long as they have a paper of descriptions on what parts of the computers look like.

[Rumblyguts]

Looked into a NIC, and refurbs were $35+shipping.

Purchased a wireless USB for $35 that seems to be doing the trick. Dint know that thar technology existed until it was mentioned here.

Thanks for the help folks,

Rumbly