Adapter Randomly Disconnects from Wireless Network

[GoodKingJayIII]

I've done some google searching but I haven't been able to turn up much on this problem. Recently my wireless adapter has started randomly disconnecting from my wireless network. At first I thought the problem might be when my computer goes idle (it never seemed to disconnect in the middle of a sessions.) However, I was doing some work online tonight and it bumped me right off. Thing is, I've had this adapter for about 6 months, but it's only started doing it within the last 3.

If anyone could give me some ideas on where to look or what to do I'd really appreciate it. Heck, even a good tech site where I could post my problem would be great. I've got a Linksys WRT54G router and the WUSB54GSC wireless adapter. Thanks a lot everyone.

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

I use those same models of router and adapter. Those problems are in my experience caused by a mismatch on the channel settings. The channels are close enough together that you can still get traffic but it will sporatically kick you off. I'd advise checking both router and adapter to make sure you've got them set to the same channel. Or you could possibly be getting interference from either cellular phones, cordless phones, or a microwave. All of those use frequencies close to the Wireless bands and can step on network traffic.

 

[GoodKingJayIII]

Hmmm... well I did recently change the router channel. But I'm a little embarrassed to say I'm not sure how to sync up the adapter with the router.

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

Hmmm... well I did recently change the router channel. But I'm a little embarrassed to say I'm not sure how to sync up the adapter with the router.

Go to your connections menu and open properties on the wireless connection. Tab through until you find the adapter setting section. One of the choices will be channel, just reset it to be the same as your router then click OK. I generally use 11 as its the furthest from normal cordless phone, cell, and microwave frequencies.

 

[GoodKingJayIII]

Um... connections menu? Do you mean Network Connections in my Control Panel (I'm using XP, SP2). I've checked the wireless adapter in my Network Connections and adjusting the channel setting for doesn't seem to be an option. Maybe there's another menu I should be looking for? I'm not sure exactly what you're referring to.

I swear I'm not computer illiterate. :\ I just can't remember the last time I had a problem with a wireless connection; it's always been as simple as plug-n-go for me.

Thanks for your (hopefully) continued assistance with this!

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

This is the chain you should follow

Network Connections
->Properties (right click on icon)
->Configure (to right of adapter type)
->Advanced (second tab from left)

 

[ssampier]

I am having similar issues, mine is very reliable sometimes and sometimes... not.

On that tab, I don't have a "channel" option. I do have an "ad hoc channel", but that's not relevant to my situation.

Adapter is Intel Pro/Wireless 2200BG on an Toshiba Satellite M55-S325.

Edit: I did set my Wireless Router from channel 2 to channel 11 to test.

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

I am having similar issues, mine is very reliable sometimes and sometimes... not.

On that tab, I don't have a "channel" option. I do have an "ad hoc channel", but that's not relevant to my situation.

Adapter is Intel Pro/Wireless 2200BG on an Toshiba Satellite M55-S325.

Edit: I did set my Wireless Router from channel 2 to channel 11 to test.

That I'm not sure cause I don't have that model sticking with Linksys and Belkins.

 

[ssampier]

Just using the internal wireless adapter ATM. I don't see the need for a PCMCIA adapter just yet.

By the way, changing the routers channel to 11 has improved things so far. Thanks!

 

[HeavenShallBurn]

Just using the internal wireless adapter ATM. I don't see the need for a PCMCIA adapter just yet.

By the way, changing the routers channel to 11 has improved things so far. Thanks!

Welcome It does surprise me how few people know about that.

Basically all your household wireless devices have to operate in the slices of Frequency the FCC designates. (Europeans have their own version that doesn't exactly match up but it's moot if you're using stuff manufactured for the US market) Microwaves also inhabit it but in their case because it's one of the most cost and energy efficient bands for the purpose more than legislation. They tend to cluster around the lower end of the allowed band so if you move to the very top of the band you can generally get less bleed over and interference.