I need some help with a problem that I understand is a growing issue for many people home wireless networks. We are a house hold of four with two teens we have 4 laptops , 2 desktops, 2 tablets, 1 xbox, 3 smart phones , 3 eyefi cards for wireless picture transfer from cameras, all on the same network. The problem we have is some days everything connects and works great next day only some devices will work its very unreliable DNS errors seems to be the issue. The real issue is I don稚 know what a DNS is. The set up we currently use is our modem connects to a non wireless hub to the hub we have three wireless routers that are hard wired to the hub and spread out throughout the house and unattached work shop. We need at least two routers to provide wireless signal to everywhere we need the signal. We run three routers because we have found some brands of wireless devices connect better to certain brands of wireless routers. I知 to a point that I知 seriously considering hiring a professional to fix it. I have concerns with hiring someone that the next time a new device is introduced to the network the problems start all over again. I知 trying to find a tool or guide that will help me repair issues as they occur. . Is there a simple solution for a non tech person to manage a home network?
Thank You
Mr Archer
Home network nightmare
Comments ... #
Wow.. I can't wait to see what other people smarter than me have to say about this. We were at a hotel this weekend that only had 2 networks for the whole place. I know that the websites for the router makers have a questioner you fill out to determine which router is best for you. I have to believe that just one of the new dual band routers would work for you.
"...non wireless hub to the hub we have three wireless routers that are hard wired to the hub and spread out throughout the house and unattached work shop..."
By routers do you mean wireless access points? Because if you are using actual routers, then that may be part of your problem.
posted by paulhem on Feb 21, 2013 at 01:05:57 pm # 1 person liked this
First, DNS in layman terms changes the name (www.google.com) to an IP address (XXX.XXX.XXX.XXX). You don't want to remember the IP address of every page it would be like memorizing a phone book.
Second, There are routers, firewalls, access points, bridges, etc for networking. Some devices combine functions, example a Linksys wireless router. Let's stick with a Linksys wireless router. By default and best scenario you are looking at 300ft. We will stick with the idea that you have other electronic devices, walls and other obstacles in your home and give you 150ft. You can set up an access point wired back to the main wireless router, or buy a wireless extender (repeater), or try higher gain antenna. When setting up the wireless I like to look at what networks I can pick up and set my main wireless to a channel that is not used and then set your access point or extender for another channel that is not being used.
A professional is not necessarily a bad idea. I suggest local with MGM Communications or Virtual PC at Spring Meadows. See if they will do a site survey for free and write up a quote for equipment and labor.
"A professional is not necessarily a bad idea."
agreed
The obvious issue I'm seeing, which is probably causing the DNS issues, is that you have 3 wireless routers which are all probably fighting for the same traffic. Your optimal setup, depending on signal strength and range needs, is one main router and then a repeater to areas that need a boost in signal.
Lot of resources online for this...
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/36406-43-convert-wireless-router-wireless-access-point
http://www.dd-wrt.com/wiki/index.php/Repeater_Bridge
http://www.dd-wrt.com/site/support/router-database
If you aren't totally comfortable doing it, then definitely seek someone to do a FREE site survey to figure out what you need. They'll also quote the equipment and such as well, like what smbfc suggested. However...in most cases DO NOT buy the equipment from them. They are probably going to overcharge you by 20-25% for the same items you can get on Amazon or NewEgg for much less. If anything have them quote labor with you getting the equipment.
posted by JustaSooner on Feb 21, 2013 at 02:01:06 pm #
Someone who, "doesn't know what DNS is," won't have any use for the links, above.
1) If you can afford it, hire a pro.
2) Get at least 2 estimates.
Handle this like you would any other appliance that is broken. Call the two contractors that smbfc suggested.
If you can't or won't hire a pro, then perhaps you have a relative or friend like JustaSooner who can flash the routers firmware to create access points or repeaters.
Thank You for the information.
I知 learning I know less than nothing on this subject. I feel like I知 living in a foreign country and being too stubborn to learn the language. Looks like I have some reading to do before I decide if should hire some one or try to figure it out.
Thank You again
Spend the money on getting it done right the first time. VPC (as suggested earlier in the thread) is a great choice. You're only going to keep pounding your head against a wall otherwise. :)
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