Internet works briefly then stops – How to fix
If your internet connection works briefly then stops,you can fix it by restarting your devices. Restarting your connected devices as well as the router will kick-start it back to work.
If your internet works well for some time then it cuts, it simply means that your connection has been interfered with. There are plenty of reasons why this interference occurs.
Table of Contents
Why the internet connection works briefly then drops and how to fix it
Internet Settings
As obvious as it may sound, there are instances where you may have accidentally turned off your wireless network settings while in use, or turned your airplane mode on. Airplane mode disables both Wi-Fi and hotspot functions.
If this is the case, ensure that your internet setting is on. Turn off airplane mode if it is activated.
Network Connection
Double check to see that you are connected to the right network. Some devices have a setting that allows them to shift from network to network any time there is a better one. This means that even while using your network, your device may discover another connection which will interfere with your earlier connection.
For this case, establish that you are connected to the right network. Turn off the setting to ‘allow device to switch to other networks’ to prevent this from happening repeatedly.
Internet Service is down
The other reason why your internet stops working after functioning properly for a bit, is if your internet service provider encounters a problem and their service is down.
To solve this, contact your internet service provider on a way forward. Depending on the magnitude of the issue, they may be able to rectify it within a few minutes or hours. They may even provide alternatives while they fix the problem.
Internet drivers require updating
Your laptop internet drivers may be outdated. If you have recently updated your Windows, the drivers essentially ought to be updated in that process. In the event that the driver update does not occur for whatever reason, you may experience a sudden interference of network.
Drivers are translators between the software and hardware of the computer. Internet drivers are Local Area Network (LAN) Cards that act as a means of communication between the computer and the internet.
You may need to check if your device driver is updated and do so if necessary. Do this by following these steps:
- Go to the search box on the bottom left corner of your desktop, type device manager, and then select Device Manager.
- Click on ‘See names of devices’, then right-click the one you would like to update.
- Choose ‘Search automatically for updated driver software’.
- Choose ‘Update Driver’.
- If Windows does not find a new driver, check for on your device manufacturer’s website and follow their guidelines.
The alternative to updating is to uninstall and reinstall the driver. This is a short, easy process done as follows:
- Go to the search box on the bottom left corner of your desktop, type device manager and then selectit.
- Right-click the name of the device, and select Uninstall.
- Restart your computer.
- Windows will attempt to reinstall the driver.
After this, it will function properly.
Overheated router
If your router overheats, the internet will be cut off shortly after working. This may happen if the router is worn out or overworked.
Turn off your router, leave it for one minute, the turn it back on. This will help to cool it down and then kick-start it back to work.
Presence of malware
Malware is any form of malicious software (malicious-software – malware) that is designed to damage devices. A virus is an example of malware. The presence of malware in your device may cause obstructions to normal device functioning as it interrupts communication within the interfaces.
To check for any malware on your computer, go to your control panel then click add/remove programs. Remove any program that is causing your computer to slow down.
You can use applications to help get rid of them. There are applications specifically designed to help you identify and eliminate malware.
A more efficient yet costly method is to format your computer. Remember to save your files and back up important files on the cloud. Formatting your computer will clear everything- including malware.
Power outage
If your power goes out while you are using a wireless connection, the internet connection will get cut off. For this specific case, you can use an alternative supply such as a mobile hotspot before your electricity is restored.
Summary
Reason for loss of connection |
How to fix it |
Internet settings |
Ensure that your internet setting is on. Turn off airplane mode if it is activated. |
Network connection |
Check your connection.
Turn off the setting to ‘allow device to switch to other networks’ to prevent this switching from happening repeatedly. |
Internet Service is down |
Contact your internet service provider. |
Device internet drivers |
Check if it is updated. If not, update it via the steps above.
Alternatively, uninstall then reinstall the driver.
|
Overheated router |
Turn off your router, leave it for one minute and then boot it. |
Malware |
Check for malware, get rid of it if found.
Format your device. |
Power outage |
Seek alternative such as a data hotspot. |
Conclusion
Your internet stops working after some time due to interferences in connection. These interferences can either be caused by hardware or by software elements. You can reboot your devices, format them or install necessary tools and updates such as drivers.
Consider regularly upgrading your router and its firmware to prevent faulty operation. Also remember to update your computer software as often as needed.
FAQs
Is this problem drop preventable?
Cases such as changing certain settings on your devices are preventable. However, you cannot always prevent cases of network errors within internet service providers.
Why does a router need to be rebooted often?
Routers are mini computers with processors that require to restart once in a while just like ordinary computers.
