My Wi-Fi keeps dropping out

A quick Wi-Fi check

• Try the same website on a second device using the same Wi-Fi. If only one device struggles, start with that device. If several fail, leave deeper diagnosis for the Wi-Fi versus provider guide below.

Computer not connecting to Wi-Fi

• Confirm the computer is joining the correct network name, not a guest network or a neighbour network with a similar name. If the password changed recently, forget only that saved network and join again with the new password.
• Restart that one computer after the Wi-Fi check above. Do not restart the router yet if other devices are still online and working.

Safe router troubleshooting

• Compare the connection near the router with the room where it drops out. Note the router lights, and check your provider's official outage page on mobile data if needed.
• Power-cycle the router only if your provider's instructions say so and nobody else in the house needs the connection right now. Do not press a factory-reset button.

When to stop and ask for help

Do not press the router's factory-reset button or disconnect unfamiliar cables. A reset can remove settings needed for internet or phone services. In a workplace, arrange any interruption with the person responsible for the network.

What we can check with you

We can walk through these first checks with you, then point you to Wi-Fi versus provider diagnosis or a home-network setup visit when the safe steps are not enough. Buying an extender before identifying the cause can leave the original problem unresolved.

Our guide to telling a Wi-Fi fault from an internet outage shows what to compare before calling your provider.

If coverage is the problem, see home network and Wi-Fi setup for router placement and mesh options.

If a printer drops off the network or shows as offline, see printer setup and connection help.

Wi-Fi visits around the Perth Hills include Swan View, Midvale, Midland, Mundaring, Glen Forrest, Helena Valley and Kalamunda.

Your PC FIX-IT contact is Mark Zoro Segec. Tell him what you have already tried before arranging the next step.

See Mark's earlier network and installation work on MZS.

Official guidance

• Microsoft's Windows Wi-Fi guide: Help with a Windows device that cannot connect. Start with the basic checks before changing network settings.

What to have ready

1. Check whether the problem affects one device or several, and which rooms are affected.
2. Have your router model and internet provider's name ready. Never send account passwords.
3. Tell us whether you need help with coverage, a new connection, printers or a small business network.

Talk through the options

Describe the problem, your suburb and the best way to reach you. We will discuss what help is appropriate and arrange a time if a visit is needed.

Get a quote before we start

Same-day, next-day and urgent call-outs available. Travel fees may apply for locations more than one hour from Perth CBD. Confirm the scope and total cost before work starts.