Windows 8 Bible

Manual Troubleshooting

If you are troubleshooting a wired network connection, make sure you have verified that all cables are securely connected and that you see link lights on both ends of the connection (at the computer and at the hub). Also, make sure the hub (or a switch that is acting as a hub) is powered on, and for an Internet connection, that the connection for the Internet connection is plugged into the hub.

The following are the two most common problems with wireless networking:

• The computer from which you’re working is too far away from the router or access point.
• The hardware isn’t properly configured, as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

A Common Network Problem

A common reason for connection problems when connecting to another system on your network is the Windows Firewall. By default, Windows does not allow sharing between two computers. This is something that you need to enable within the Windows Firewall.

To enable file sharing, open the Control Panel. If the Control Panel is in Category view, you’ll need to click System And Security and then click Windows Firewall. If the Control Panel is in Classic view, you’ll need to double-click Windows Firewall. Leave the firewall On and click the Allow An App Or Feature Through Windows Firewall link. Click Change Settings to enable the controls on the Allowed Programs dialog box. Then, select (check) File And Printer Sharing and place a check beside the network where you want to enable sharing (Private, Public, ...