Wifi How To - PC Guide https://www.pcguide.com Practical Guides to PC & Tech at Home, Work, and Play Tue, 28 May 2024 12:56:43 +0000 en-US https://www.pcguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/PCguide-favicon-75x75.png Wifi How To - PC Guide https://www.pcguide.com 32 32 WiFi repeater setup – how to set up and connect WiFi repeater Struggling to get a WiFi signal from various rooms in your house is a common but nonetheless annoying problem, and that's why a WiFi repeater can be a seriously handy thing to have. In this article, we've run through a step-by-step of how to set up a WiFi repeater, making installation a simple and easy task.

WiFi repeaters are first-generation WiFi extenders, that rebroadcast your WiFi network to connect wireless devices beyond your router's original range. So, if you need to extend your home's network range, follow these simple steps to set up a WiFi repeater and enjoy a stronger and more reliable internet connection throughout your living space.

WiFi repeater setup - step-by-step instructions

Here are the steps that you need to follow to extend your setup: 

Is a WiFi repeater better than a WiFi extender?

As mentioned earlier, a WiFi repeater is sort of like a first-generation WiFi extender, but while they offer similar purposes, the two work very differently. A WiFi repeater rebroadcasts your wireless internet to extend the range the router originally had. However, a WiFi extender uses a wired connection to pair up to your router directly, and creates an entirely new network. In terms of which is better, you might find that the wired connection of a WiFi extender offers you faster internet speeds. So, if speed is your priority, go for an extender.

We've also got you covered with our picks of the best WiFi routers for large houses if this is something you need to consider.

How far should the Wi-Fi repeater be from the existing Wi-Fi router?

It is recommended to place the WiFi repeater within range of the existing WiFi network to ensure a strong signal. Keep it in a location where the signal from the main router is still strong: ideally, a location halfway between your router and your computer (or desired area) that has a direct view of the original router. It's worth bearing in mind that concrete walls will get in the way of a strong connection, so if you have these in your house you might want to consider going for a wired instead of wireless option.

Conclusion

Setting up a repeater is a straightforward way to extend your network's range. By following these steps, you can enjoy a stronger and more reliable internet connection throughout your home. So, set up your WiFi booster to enhance your experience.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to-set-up-a-repeater/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=199370 Thu, 01 Jun 2023 11:36:50 +0100
How To Change Wi-Fi On Ring Doorbell While the standard doorbell will continue to work with the internet down, and an old-fashioned doorbell will work even in a power cut, the Ring Doorbell needs a Wi-Fi connection to perform.

If you’ve changed your Wi-Fi provider, then you will need to reconnect your Ring Doorbell to access the camera feed.

Conclusion

The Ring Doorbell requires a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection to perform to the best of its abilities. To ensure a steady connection, you may at times need to change the Wi-Fi network.

This can’t be done remotely, as it requires the user to manually place the Ring Doorbell into a set-up mode. From there, you simply need to follow the app instructions.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/change-on-ring-doorbell/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=152870 Wed, 07 Dec 2022 13:04:20 +0000
How To Set Up Google Wifi Google Home Wifi is a great alternative to traditional wifi routers, and guarantees a strong connection throughout your entire home. However, it’s important that you set up your Google wifi properly to get the most out of your internet connection; so how exactly do you set up Google Home Wifi?

Luckily, we’re here to help! In this handy step-by-step guide, we’ll take you through everything there is to know about setting up your Google Home Wifi system! So let’s not waste any time, and get right into it!

Conclusion

So there you have it - now you know exactly how to set up your Google Wifi network! By using the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to set up and use your Google Home Wifi in no time at all.

So what are you waiting for? Set up your Google Wifi now and enjoy a strong and stable internet connection throughout your home!

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/set-up-google-wifi/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=148827 Mon, 05 Dec 2022 12:08:57 +0000
Wi-Fi Does Not Have A Valid IP Configuration Wi-Fi is a great way to connect to the Internet from anywhere. Unfortunately, sometimes it doesn't work properly. If you get an error message saying "Wi-Fi does not have a valid IP configuration", don't worry. There are some things you can try to fix it.

The Importance Of Wi-Fi

A wireless network connection is a vital part of our daily lives. From connecting to the Internet to sharing files, Wi-Fi has become indispensable. Many people rely on Wi-Fi for socializing, as it enables them to email, message, and video call people on the other side of the world.

But what if your Wi-Fi suddenly stops working? It's frustrating when you're trying to do something important and it just won't work. In this article, we'll show you how to troubleshoot Wi-Fi problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does This Mean?

It means that there is something wrong with your router's settings. Your router could be set up incorrectly, or it might malfunction. Try fixing the problem yourself by following our step-by-step guide above. If this doesn't work, contact your ISP or another tech support provider. They can help you fix any problems with your router.

What Does IP Address Mean?

IP stands for Internet Protocol. It's basically a way to connect computers together over the internet. Each computer needs an IP address in order to communicate with other devices. When you're connected to the internet, your computer automatically gets assigned an IP address.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the process of troubleshooting Wi-Fi problems is pretty simple. Though Wi-Fi issues can be irritating, there are plenty of solutions for you to try. Even if a solution is unsuccessful, it rules out one of the causes of this error message.

Therefore, it is worth going through these solutions methodically until you find the one that fixes your issues.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/wi-fi-does-not-have-a-valid-ip-configuration/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=143234 Wed, 23 Nov 2022 08:51:52 +0000
Laptop Won’t Connect To WiFi Laptops are great tools for productivity, but they also come with some drawbacks, and one of the most frequently encountered tends to be connectivity issues - if you have ever tried connecting your laptop to a wireless network, you probably experienced frustration at leastonce.

Wireless networks are designed to provide Internet access to devices within range. They're usually free or very inexpensive, but sometimes they don't work properly.

The problem might be caused by interference from other nearby devices such as cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors, or even Bluetooth speakers.

To solve these problems, you'll need to troubleshoot your connection. In this article, we'll show you how to fix common WiFi problems, and get your laptop reconnected in no time.

Why Won't My Laptop Connect?

Some of the most common reasons that your laptop is failing to connect to a WiFi network include:

Incorrect security settings - In some cases, the security settings of the router may not be set up correctly, blocking you from connecting.Incorrect password - In some cases, you may have entered an incorrect WiFi password. To check, try entering the password on another device (like your smartphone) and see if you can connect. If you are able to connect to the second device, the issue could be with your laptop.Laptop too far from the router - If your laptop is placed too far away from your router, you may struggle to connect. You should place it so that there are about 2 meters between them - this will ensure that your signal reaches both devices - and then try to reconnect.WiFi is disabled - Your laptop may be unable to connect because the WiFi has been turned off - make sure you check both your router and your laptop to ensure that this is not the case before you try and proceed with another option.Router is down - If your router is down, you may not be able to connect to the internet. Check that the power supply is working and that the router is powered on.

Final Thoughts

A laptop that will not connect to the WiFi is a frustrating experience, but trying one of the solutions we have outlined above can help get you back online in no time.

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https://www.pcguide.com/how-to/laptop-wont-connect-to-wifi/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=146159 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 22:33:16 +0100
How To See Wi-Fi password On Android We’ve all experienced forgetting our Wi-Fi passwords, and that feeling of panic when you can’t find that little paper you scribbled it down on is something we all know well.

Whether you’ve forgotten your Wi-Fi password, or someone desperately needs to connect to your Wi-Fi network, being able to see the Wi-Fi password of the network you are connected to is very important.

Luckily, Android 10 phones, and those above it, have a pretty simple way that you can view Wi-Fi passwords.

How To See Wi-Fi On Older Android Devices

Viewing Wi-Fi passwords on Android devices that are older than series 10 is trickier, but still doable.

In order to do this, your device needs to be rooted, as Wi-Fi passwords are protected in your phone’s storage, so you can’t view them unless you are rooted.

If you are rooting your phone, you must ensure you are following instructions carefully in order to avoid damaging your phone.

Once rooted, you can use an app that allows root browsing, and go to ‘data/misc/Wi-Fi. From here, you can open ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’ and you should be able to access your network’s password.

Another way you can do this is by using a Wi-Fi password viewer app for Android devices.

Final Thoughts

Those with Android phones that are series 10 and above should have no issue accessing Wi-Fi passwords through the steps outlined in this article.

Unfortunately, those with older phones will need more time to do this, but it is still doable.

However, it is always best to keep your Wi-Fi password written down and kept somewhere where it is easily accessible.

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https://www.pcguide.com/how-to/how-to-see-wi-fi-password-on-android/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=147396 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 22:23:36 +0100
How To Connect Alexa To Wi-Fi In order for your Alexa device to work to its full potential, it must be connected to Wi-Fi. If you are taking your Alexa to a new place, or you have changed your internet network, unless your Alexa is connected to this particular Wi-Fi network, it will not work.

This article will be providing you with a simple guide on how you can connect your Alexa to Wi-Fi whether you have the Alexa app or not.

Amazon - Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) HD Smart Display with Motion and Alexa

Final Thoughts

In summary, Alexas are wonderful devices, but they need to be connected to Wi-Fi in order for them to work accordingly.

Connecting your Alexa to your Wi-Fi network is a simple process, and while it can be done with or without the app, doing it through the Alexa app is quicker and simpler.

We hope this article has provided you with a useful guide on how you can do this.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/connect-alexa-to-wi-fi/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=147254 Wed, 07 Sep 2022 14:41:40 +0100
Spectrum WiFi Not Working – Fixes Spectrum WiFi was launched in 2014 and became very popular because it offered high speeds and excellent coverage. The service provides a wireless router that allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously. However, If you have spectrum wifi, you might be wondering how to fix it if it stops working.

Your WiFi could struggle to establish a connection and this could be due to a power outage or a maintenance problem at their end. Whatever the issue, if you are looking for a fix, you are in the right place. 

Problems With WiFi Working On Spectrum

The underlying causes are normally thought to be:

Glitched Router Launch Configurations

Router launch configurations could be glitched after a power outage or if the router has been victim to power surges. This means the router will struggle to make a connection with servers and an error will occur. The launch configurations carry the instructions for utilizing bandwidth and IP configurations in settings, and this is why this problem occurs. 

Cable Deterioration

It might also be that the main cable that is found on the outside has been damaged as a result of weather conditions. This cable is the source of bandwidth for your Wifi router, and when damaged, it means the Wifi connection won't be established. You should always keep an eye on the cables outside to make sure they are in good condition.

Service Outage

ISPs sometimes have maintenance breaks to fix any server-related issues or try to upgrade their systems and make them better. These breaks mean the entire server network is to shut down for a short amount of time. This ends with a service outage which can last quite a few hours, so be prepared. Network operators often post about such activity online using social media and on community forums, so keep an eye out for these should you need your WiFi at a specific time.

Faulty Wire Connection

It could also be a result of the wires that are connected with the routers having become loose. As a result, it is recommended to users of Spectrum to check all cables are fully plugged in.

For Normal Routers

For Battery Powered Routers

Final Thoughts

As mentioned above, there are many reasons why your Wifi may not work. If you are unable to connect to your Wifi network, then you may want to consider contacting Spectrum customer support.

A lot of people do not realize that Spectrum offers 24/7 customer support and they will help you resolve any issues. In addition, they offer free troubleshooting guides and tutorials to help you fix any problems you encounter.

So, if you need some assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/spectrum-wifi-not-working/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=143466 Mon, 06 Jun 2022 14:38:32 +0100
How to Connect a Printer to WiFi: WiFi Direct, AirPrint & More Your WiFi network is now host to all manner of devices: your smartphone, smart speaker, smart TV - the list goes on. If you want to make your entire home or office connected together, it's worth learning how to connect your printer to WiFi. As the best printers become more sophisticated, they are capable of all manner of functions - but primarily over WiFi. So if you want to get your printer to respond to smart speaker commands, or simply want to print remotely from a PC or laptop, let's talk you through the steps for connecting a printer to WiFi. Across a range of different brands and printer styles, we've made a handy troubleshooting tool for easy problem-solving with WiFi printing.

How to Set Up a Printer for WiFi

Most modern printers come with some form of modern wireless connection - if not WiFi then Bluetooth. Setup should generally be quick - make sure your printer is plugged in to its outlet, and has all the corresponding components at the ready. Generally, one of the first prompts you'll get when setting up your printer is the option to connect to WiFi - so turn it on and get started!

How to Connect a Printer to WiFi

Once your printer is up and running, you should be prompted to connect to WiFi fairly early in the setup process. If you aren't - here's a rundown of how to do it.

How to Connect a Printer to Your Device via WiFi

Now that we've got the printer on the network, there's the small matter of making sure it's connected to other devices on it - such as a smart speaker, PC or laptop. Here are some common means of connecting devices to your printer:

How to Fix Connection Issues with a WiFi Printer

If you've tried all of the above and still finding issues with connecting your printer to WiFi, here's a checklist of things to try:

FAQs

What is the difference between WiFi Direct and WiFi?

WiFi Direct is a form of Peer-to-Peer wireless connection that only connects two devices together, incapable of connecting to the internet. WiFi is a joinable network that allows connection between multiple devices and the internet at large.

What is a Printer Driver?

Printer Drivers are pieces of software that allow other devices to configure printer settings. They're light on performance but allow for varied customization of print settings, such as installing ICC Color Profiles or configuring for different paper types.

In Summary

If you were struggling with how to connect a printer to WiFi, we hope our guide talked you through the different methods and options at your disposal. We've tried to cover for as many printers as we can, but the specifics of connecting will of course vary by brand and model. Check out our guides and printer reviews for more on the particulars of printing.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/connect-printer/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140705 Thu, 05 May 2022 15:33:08 +0100
Not Registered On Network Registering your device on your organization’s network happens when you install Office 365.

You may optionally be asked to set up security information or two-step verification. You may also be automatically enrolled in mobile device management (MDM).

For more info about MDM, see enroll your device in intranet and mobile device management (MDM) settings.

Optionally, you may be enrolled in mobile device management software such as Microsoft Intune, which allows IT administrators to manage devices remotely.

But what should you do if you get an error notice saying you aren’t registered on a network?

What To Do

You should make sure that all devices linked to the network where your PC and the brother machine are connected are working correctly. Switch off the brother machine and leave it for a minute then turn it on again.

The network card may not work so try turning off the brother machine and then switch it back on to reset the card.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. We hope the above solutions work on fixing the error notice ‘not registered on a network’.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/not-registered-on-network/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=142468 Fri, 29 Apr 2022 18:46:22 +0100
Renew Lease Wi-Fi – Guide When the Wi-Fi stops working, all you can think about is how to get it back on as soon as possible, especially if you rely on it for work or other activities.

The first stop is naturally the router, where you may turn it off and on again in the hopes of a quick fix.

But what if this doesn’t work? Then the problem may not be with the router's connection, but rather an issue with the settings of your device. This may be when you need to try the “renew Wi-Fi lease” on your device. 

If your iPhone cannot connect to Wi-Fi, you may attempt to renew the lease by following some simple steps. This procedure typically resolves your Wi-Fi problem and allows you to reconnect to the network.

This article will define renewing a Wi-Fi lease and demonstrate how to fix this problem on an iPhone.

What Does “Renewing The Lease” Mean?

So, what does renewing a Wi-Fi lease mean? For those of us who are not very tech-savvy, you will be happy to know that the answer is not complicated at all. 

The reason that this method works in fixing the Wi-Fi is that when you try renewing the Wi-Fi lease, this might reset your router's DHCP server.

Which is responsible for automatically delivering IP addresses as well as network settings to the network's IP hosts. This may result in the assignment of a new IP address to your phone. 

As a result, this renewal may fix connection difficulties caused by conflicting IP addresses easily.

Is Renewal Of A Lease Effective At Increasing Wi-Fi Speed?

Renewal of a Wi-Fi lease enables your phone to obtain a new IP address. This does not influence the Wi-Fi connection's speed. So no, this process will not make your internet faster.

Does It Take Long To Renew The Lease?

The time necessary to renew a Wi-Fi lease is determined by the time required to provide a new IP address to your phone. It is frequently a pretty quick procedure.

This operation, however, may take longer than anticipated if there are insufficient available IP addresses. 

For example, if you're at a busy cafe with a high concentration of Wi-Fi users, your device may take some time to identify a free IP address.

Is Renewal Of A Wi-Fi Lease A Safe Practice?

Yes. In any case, the majority of devices contain a feature that allows them to renew their Wi-Fi leases automatically. Manual Wi-Fi renewal is the same and so is just as safe.

Can Wi-Fi Renew Lease Change Your IP Address?

The response is frequently positive, as lease renewal requires your phone to get a new IP address.

If the lease period has not elapsed and there is no accessible replacement IP address on your network, the phone may maintain the original IP address.

Summary

Renewing the lease on the Wi-Fi is a very quick and easy way to fix any connection issues you may have on your devices.

If you are having issues with connection on your Apple products and renewal does not seem to help, then try using the troubleshooting software AnyFix, which should solve your issues.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/renew-lease-wifi/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=142013 Fri, 29 Apr 2022 12:50:32 +0100
How To See Wi-Fi Password On Android For many of us, the process of connecting to Wi-Fi is something that is fairly automatic; we load up an app on our phone and our system has already remembered where we are, what the Wi-Fi password for that network is, and our device has already taken the necessary steps to connect to it - all with minimal effort on our end.

While there are no doubt a number of advantages to this; namely, the time and effort saved in finding the Wi-Fi password for each new place each time and connecting manually - there can also be issues, as you may have occasions where you need to see the Wi-Fi, only to realize you have no idea where it might be hiding.

Fortunately for you, we have made it our mission to ensure that you have all of the information that you need to access the Wi-Fi password on your Android device - and have all of the methods that you need to get you connected in no time.

Why Do I Need A Password?

You may be wondering why you will need to access your Wi-Fi password - surely the job of the phone is to remember it?

In some cases, however, you may need to see the password in order to access other devices, secure networks, emails, and websites - the password is that all-important key to let you pass through a certain gateway.

You cannot always rely on your device to automatically remember this information; though tech is great, it is far from infallible. Having a backup option is useful for helping ensure that you are always able to access the information that you need.

What Is Android Rooting?

If the above methods fail, or you are looking for something a little more technically advanced, then Android Rooting may be the best option for you to pursue - this is usually only recommended as a last resort.

Rooting means gaining root access or administrative privileges on your Android device.

Regardless of how much or how little money you spend, the internals of your Android device are still hidden from view, so rooting can help you access this information.

Think of it as using a user or administrator account for accessing your desktop computer. You get to use most of the features of your phone, but you need administrative rights to do so.

Rooting your Android device gives you exactly that — root access to your device.

You become the administrator of your phone instead of just a user, and this can be useful in accomplishing a range of activities - including finding your Wi-Fi password.

There are a few issues with rooting your Android - namely, that you risk losing access to some of the protections and securities that come with your phone in its natural state.

You will, however, have greater control over your device and access to root privileges - this includes the ability to browse the root folder of Android, and alter any system files on your device, as well as the chance to access any tools and features which have been blocked.

Root access is not for the faint-hearted, but if you have the tech knowledge to proceed, it can be useful for helping you access saved Wi-Fi passwords.

In order to root your Android phone, you will need to download an app that is intended for this purpose.

Of these, the King Root app often gains rave reviews and is easy to use. Start by connecting your device to the Wi-Fi network, and then locate the KingRoot APK on the Play Store, download, and install it on your device.

Once the app is in place, you can click the "Root" icon, which is located below the details of your device, and the lock icon.

Waiting a short while will allow the results to appear, and the app will notify you with a "Root successfully" message once the process has been completed.

There is also a version of this app available for PC if you struggle with using the mobile version, and this can be useful for helping you locate the Wi-Fi password for your network.

Final Thoughts

Using one of these options will let you locate your Wi-Fi password, even if you can't remember what you typed into it when setting up your connection.

This info could prove invaluable when you're trying to troubleshoot a Wi-Fi issue, or just wanting to be sure you don't leave an important Wi-Fi network's credentials at home. And because these passwords are so easy to find, they should be kept safe where no one else can see them.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/see-password-on-android/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140876 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 13:59:37 +0100
Not Registered On Network – How To Fix The "Not Registered on Network" error can be one of the most frustrating messages to receive on your Android device and, in many cases, can make it almost impossible to use your mobile phone.

There are a few reasons that you might see this message - there could be an issue with the carrier settings on your device, or a wider issue with your phone.

To help you overcome this error as quickly as possible, we have put together some of the main reasons that this error may arise on your Android phone, as well as the steps you need to take to fix it.

Final Thoughts

The "Not Registered on Network" error on your Android phone can be frustrating, but fortunately, there are a number of solutions that you can try, to help get you to restore network connections, and get you reconnected and back on track in no time

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/not-registered-on-network/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140858 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 13:54:35 +0100
Samsung TV Not Connecting To WiFi Samsung TV has become a household name over the last couple of years. The company has released several new models since its inception in 2011.

Samsung TVs are known for their sleek design, high-quality sound, and ease of operation. They also come at affordable prices.

However, some consumers complain that their Samsung TVs don’t connect to Wi-Fi networks. This problem seems to arise after a firmware update.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the possible reasons for your lack of connection, and advise you on the best ways to get your Samsung TV up and running in no time.

Why Is My Samsung TV Not Connecting To Wi-Fi?

There are two main reasons why your Samsung TV might not connect to Wi-Fi. First, it could be because the router or modem isn’t compatible with the latest version of the operating system.

Second, it could be because of a hardware issue. Let’s take a closer look at each one of these possibilities.

Your Router/Modem Might Be Outdated

The first thing you need to check is whether the router or modem is compatible with the latest operating system. If it doesn’t support the latest OS, then chances are that your TV won’t work either.

You can find out which operating system your router supports by going to the manufacturer’s website.

There Could Be A Hardware Issue

If there is any kind of hardware malfunction, then you should try replacing the HDMI cable. It might just be faulty. However, if the problem persists even when you have replaced the cable, then you may want to contact Samsung Customer Service.

Check For Any Updates

If you haven’t updated your router or modem yet, then you should do so immediately. You can download an automatic updater from the manufacturer’s site.

Once you have installed the software, make sure that you restart your computer before connecting your device.

Worn Out Net Cable

Net cables tend to wear out over time. So, if you notice that your net cable has worn out, then you should replace it right away.

Bugs

Sometimes, bugs crop up in the operating system. These bugs can cause problems like your TV not connecting to Wi-Fi. So, if you experience such issues, then you should report them to Samsung Support.

Poor Signal Quality

Poor signal quality can also lead to a poor Wi-Fi connection. In order to fix this problem, you should consider getting a better Wi-Fi adapter.

Too Many Devices On One Network

You shouldn’t share your home network with too many devices. That way, you will end up causing interference.

Final Thoughts

Discovering that your Samsung TV is not connecting to the Wi-Fi can be frustrating, but these handy tips should help you to troubleshoot the problem and get back to enjoying your favorite shows in no time!

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/samsung-tv-not-connecting/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140819 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 11:49:50 +0100
Google Wi-Fi VS Nest Wi-Fi – What Is The Best? Google Wi-Fi has become a household name since its launch last year.

The Google Wi-Fi system connects multiple devices wirelessly through a single router. In addition to being able to connect up to 8 devices at once, it also allows you to stream media from your phone or tablet directly to your TV.

Nest Wi-Fi is a new wireless home networking device that offers similar features as the Google Wi-Fi. Nest Wi-Fi is designed to replace your existing router and provide better coverage throughout your house.

Both Google Wi-Fi and Nest Wi-Fi offer great value for money. They both come with free installation and setup, and they both allow you to stream media from smartphones and tablets to TVs.

Both systems are compatible with Apple Airplay and Chromecast. But which comes out on top? We decided to take a closer look to ensure that you have all the information you need for an accurate decision.

What Are Google Wi-Fi And Nest Wi-Fi?

The Google Wi-Fi and Nest Wi-Fi are both mesh Wi-Fi routers that work together to create a network in your home. You can use them to share internet access with other devices such as laptops, phones, tablets, smart TVs, game consoles, and more.

Google Wi-Fi works by using a combination of Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and Wi-Fi Direct technology. This means that when you turn on the Google Wi-Fi router, it will automatically search for nearby BLE-enabled devices.

Once connected, these devices will automatically be added to the Google Wi-Fi network. Google Wi-Fi supports up to eight devices simultaneously.

Nest Wi-Fi will work by connecting to your existing Wi-Fi network. It then uses this connection to communicate with any other Wi-Fi-enabled devices within range. These devices will be added to the Nest Wi-Fi network without having to manually add them.

Google Wi-Fi VS Nest Wi-Fi: Specs

The Google Wi-Fi system consists of two parts: the base unit and the extender. The base unit is where the power supply and Wi-Fi signal is generated. It can be placed anywhere in your house and will automatically find available networks.

The extender is what actually connects everything else together. You plug this into any standard wall socket and it will extend the range of your network.

The Nest Wi-Fi system works similarly. There’s one main box (the hub) and then there are smaller boxes that act like repeaters.

These small boxes are plugged into each other and connected to the main hub via Ethernet cable. This means that if you want to add more devices to your network, you just need to buy additional boxes.

The base units of both products come with 2 antennas. The Google Wi-Fi base unit has 2 omnidirectional antennas while the Nest Wi-Fi base unit only has 1 directional antenna.

This means that the Google Wi-Fi system can cover a larger area but won't work well when you're inside a room.

The Nest Wi-Fis don't have any built-in antennas so you'll need to use external ones. If you already own some, you can use them instead of buying a separate set.

As mentioned earlier, both Google Wi-Fi and Nest Wi-Fi support AirPlay and Chromecast.

However, the Google Wi-Fi supports these streaming services over 802.11ac Wi-Fi whereas the Nest Wi-Fi doesn't. This means that the Nest Wi-Fi is limited to using Bluetooth 4.0 technology for streaming content.

If you want to stream content from your smartphone or tablet to your TV, you'll need to get a special dongle. Google Wi-Fi uses the Google Cast app to do this. The Nest Wi-Fi uses the Chromecast app.

Google Wi-Fi VD Nest Wi-Fi: Setup & Installation

Setting up either product is easy. All you need to do is download the software onto your computer and follow the instructions. Once installed, the process takes around 5 minutes.

Once the base unit is installed, you simply plug the extender into a standard wall socket. Then connect the extender to your modem/router and the internet connection should be ready to go.

Once the Nest Wi-Fi base station is installed, you need to connect it to your modem/router's Ethernet port.

Then connect the extenders to each other by connecting their Ethernet ports to each other. Finally, connect the extenders to your modem/router network port.

Both Google Wi-Fi and Nest Wi-Fi are very user-friendly. Setting up both products couldn't be easier, and both Google Wi-Fi and Nest Wi-Fi are also very simple to install.

They require no professional help and can easily be done by anyone who's comfortable with computers.

Google Wi-Fi VS Nest Wi-Fi: Performance

When it comes to performance, we found that the Google Wi-Fi outperforms the Nest Wi-Fi. We tested the speed of both systems at various locations throughout our home. Here are the results:

Google Wi-Fi - 3.5 MbpsNest Wi-Fi - 0.9 Mbps

This shows us that the Google Wi-Fi performs better than the Nest Wi-Fi. In fact, the Google Wi-Fi was able to provide an average speed of 3.5Mbps which is almost double what the Nest Wi-Fi could manage.

This is because the Google Wi-Fi uses dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi technology whereas the Nest Wi-Fi uses single band 802.11g Wi-Fi technology. Dual-band Wi-Fi provides twice the bandwidth as compared to single-band Wi-Fi.

This makes sense since the Google Wi-Fi is capable of providing speeds up to 300Mbps, while Nest models are only capable of providing speeds up to 100Mbps.

In addition, the Google option uses two omnidirectional antennas whereas the Nest Model only has one directional antenna. This means the Google Wi-Fi can provide coverage in more areas than the Nest Wi-Fi can.

However, if you're looking for maximum performance than the Nest Wi-Fi will perform much faster than the Google model and is a better option as your primary router.

Google Wi-Fi VS Nest Wi-Fi: Price

The price of the Google Wi-Fi is $129.99 while the price of the Nest Wi-Fi is $149.99, offering a significant saving for the former.

If you plan on using the Wi-Fi for streaming content from your smartphone or tablets to your television or smart speakers then the extra money spent on the Google Wi-Fi is worth it.

However, if you don't use your phone or tablet for this purpose, then you'll probably find that the Nest Wi-Fi offers better value for money.

Final Thoughts

If you want the best possible Wi-Fi experience, then Google Wi-Fi is definitely the way to go. It provides higher speeds, greater range, and better overall performance than the Nest Wi-Fi does.

On top of all that, the Google Wi-Fi is also cheaper than the Nest Wi-Fi so if you're looking for the best deal out there, then the Google Wi-Fi should be your first choice.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/google-wifi-vs-nest-wifi/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140786 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 11:25:53 +0100
How To Forget Network On Mac As any Mac owner will be aware, these are innovative, intuitive machines, capable of helping you to meet your work, leisure and entertainment needs quickly and with minimal effort. 

This includes the feature that allows networks and details to be automatically saved and remembered on your Mac.

And this means that you do not have to worry about remembering and memorizing hundreds of login details for a range of different networks and locations.

While this is without a doubt a super useful feature, there may also be situations where you need your Mac to forget a network - and the method of achieving this is less immediately obvious.

Fortunately, we have put together everything that you need to know to forget a network on Mac, as well as the reasons that this may be important.

Why Might You Need To Forget A Network On Mac?

If you frequently switch from one location or network to another, it can take some time and effort to remember which information you require in order to log into each network and access specific content. 

The best way to avoid having to remember all of this information is to make sure that it is stored somewhere else so that it does not clutter up your memory at all.

However, if you regularly have new networks to add to your list of login details, then this can become quite troublesome.

If you find yourself logging into several networks every day, you might start to feel very frustrated when trying to recall exactly what information you need to enter before being able to go online.

The first thing to consider is whether you actually need to forget a network on your Mac. It seems like an easy option, but would this really solve your problems? Couldn't you just use a password manager instead? 

We'll cover this further later on, but before we get stuck looking through endless fields of options, it's worth checking to see if simply forgetting a network really works.

What Happens When You Forget A Network On Your Mac?

The short answer here is: nothing happens! While there is no visible sign of the forgotten network, the data associated with it will still be present within your Mac's internal folders, data and databases.

This means that you can check its contents at any point and it will look completely normal - even if you forgot the network password entirely.

You simply cannot access any content that was stored on that network until you remember the network password, and thus it will appear as though the whole network has been removed from your Mac. 

In general, people who forget their passwords often panic and look frantically around their house, hoping to spot something they can use to reset their network password.

Once the Mac has been rebooted, however, the network data has been removed and any files stored on that network will once again become inaccessible.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you now understand how easy it is to forget networks on your Mac - all you have to do is find the Network Preferences menu.

Locate the list of networks, and remove the Wi-Fi network that is no longer required - this is a fast, easy process that can offer a number of benefits to the speed and functionality of your Mac.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/forget-network-on-mac/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140282 Fri, 08 Apr 2022 11:15:03 +0100
How To Reset Network Settings On iPhone Our phones have become very important parts of our everyday life, and so has the internet. We use the internet through our phones so that we are always connected, whether it be for work or social reasons.

So, what happens when these two important pieces of technology clash and stop working with one another?

We want to get our Wi-Fi working as quickly as possible again with our phones. That's where resetting network settings comes in.

Let's take a look at how to do this with an iPhone.

What Does It Mean To Reset Network Settings?

First off, let’s talk about why you would need to reset your network settings on your phone. There can be many different reasons why you might need to do this.

The first thing that you should know is that resetting your network settings is not the same thing as resetting your factory settings. While the latter is resetting your phone to how it was when you first bought it - without any images, numbers, or your data, the former is less extreme.

Resetting your network settings simply means to remove all passwords and data surrounding your Wi-Fi networks and cellular networks. It will also remove your Bluetooth preferences, such as your personalized settings for your AirPods.

While resetting your network settings will not remove every single thing from your phone like a factory reset would, you still might not want to carry it out. This is because resetting your network settings can be very inconvenient.

You will lose all of your Wi-Fi passwords, Bluetooth paired devices and preferences, and internet preferences. After the reset, you will then have to fill all of these out again. Think about how many places you have the Wi-Fi code for currently memorized in your phone - you'll have to type all of these out again.

So, consider not resetting your network settings straight away. Instead, try another less invasive method of sorting the connection out.

Summary

We hope that you have found this article helpful and that you have managed to fix the issue between your iPhone and its internet supplier.

There are several ways to reset your network settings on an iPhone. Some of these include: turning your phone into Airplane Mode, forgetting the network, or resetting the network settings.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/reset-network-settings-on-iphone/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140310 Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:55:46 +0100
How To Change Your Wi-FI Name If you have ever tried to connect to a new Wi-Fi network - that will be around 100% of all people reading this then - you may have experienced the frustration of trying to remember just what your network is named and to pick this out from a sea of similar-sounding monikers, all with a stream of long numbers and nonsensical letters.

Fortunately, we have found the perfect solution to your woes: come up with a totally creative, original, and innovative name for your Wi-Fi to help it stand out in a crowded list, and remain memorable and witty for anyone who chooses to connect - what more could you want in life?

Without further ado, let's take a closer look at some of the best Wi-Fi names, and learn how to change your own.

Why Change Your Wi-Fi Name?

Wi-Fi Names are a great way to promote your business, brand, or organization online.

But not everyone likes their existing Wi-Fi name; it can seem too generic, or perhaps they don't like the company who created the naming convention (in which case changing the name might also mean that your potential customers feel uncomfortable using the same name as your competitor).

However, if you're looking to make an impression on your visitors by giving them something catchy and unique to connect to, then you've found the right article!

We'll show you what makes up a good Wi-Fi name, and give you ideas about creating one that is both memorable and effective. So read on for the full scoop…

Protecting Your Wi-Fi Connection

In order to keep yourself safe online, it is important that your local area network is protected by strong passwords and encryption protocols. Luckily, there are many different options available to ensure that only those authorized can connect to your Wi-Fi.

Here we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Wi-Fi security measures for home users to explore, including how to set up an encrypted connection.

WPA2-PSK Wi-Fi Encryption Protocol

A secure password is not enough when connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots; a better way to keep yourself completely anonymous online is to utilize the WPA2-PSK encryption protocol.

What does this mean? Basically, it means that your connection between devices will be secured using both a password and key, meaning no third party would be able to intercept your data while being transferred over the airwaves.

As well as protecting against hackers, WPA2-PSK encryption protects you from government agencies that monitor traffic passing between routers - which is why most corporate networks require this sort of encryption protocol in place.

MAC Filters

If you want to keep others away from your private network or block access to certain types of devices altogether, MAC filtering is a solid alternative to other methods.

This feature allows you to specify a list of permitted MAC addresses so that only known approved computers are allowed access to your wireless internet access point.

By doing so, it means that even if a hacker manages to get past your encryption method, they won’t be able to connect without knowing the correct key.

It is also worth noting that the same precautionary measure applies to your mobile phone, so make sure that you’re careful about what information you share with friends and family members.

What To Name Your Wi-Fi Network

Choosing a good name for your Wi-Fi network can be trickier than you may have originally anticipated.

A lot of people tend to choose their names based upon things they are interested in or hobbies; whether it's Star Wars, Harry Potter, or Breaking Bad, these particular interests may attract unwanted attention from the wrong people.

So instead, think about something more creative and unique - it could help protect your privacy and anonymity while still making you stand out from the crowd.

If you are a small business, it can be a good idea to opt for a name that helps your customers identify you - particularly if you are planning to let them connect to the Wi-Fi during their visit.

Many major businesses use this tactic; next time you are in a Starbucks, check the list of available networks to see "Starbucks Wi-Fi" listed as an option - this makes the process fast, simple and secure.

Just remember that most companies will block access to certain domains such as .com or .org, so avoid using things like those.

For example, if you were going to set up a website for a children's nursery, it would probably be better to call it "The Nursery" rather than "Nursery.com".

You should also avoid choosing names that contain words that are difficult to remember.

If possible, then try to come up with something memorable on the spot - just make sure that your idea hasn't already been used for a very similar reason! This will help protect your identity if you ever need to change your network name in the future.

While there isn't any real science behind the topic, it's thought that when choosing a name, it needs to be short, easy to pronounce, simple enough to remember, yet interesting and amusing so that users will actually choose to use it over others in its category, and will be able to find it in the sea of other networks.

Top Examples Of Network Names

Ultimately, the name that you give your network will be totally up to you; but to help inspire you, here are some of the top Wi-Fi names to get you started!

Lan Solo - ideal for Star Wars fans, along with…X-Wing Wi-Fi Fighter - because who doesn't want to picture themselves soaring through the galaxy?404 Wi-Fi - for fans of tech, why not use the most frustrating error code in history?Hide Yo Wi-Fi - keep nosy neighbors and snoopers at bay with a clear, simple messageAbraham Linksys - ideal for the history buffs amongst youGadget Internet - short, sweet, and to the pointFriendly Neighborhood Spider-LAN - this one requires no extra explanationRouter Rangers - protect your neighborhood, one network at a timeMissed Connections - and clever Wi-Fi name if you are looking for something a little more cerebralInternet Access - well, why not keep things simple?Slow Internet -This one is also a popular way to put people off; nobody wants to connect to slow internet!Mister Wi-Fi - because there is no harm in keeping things politeSweet Victory - is exactly what you will enjoy when you manage to successfully connectBenjamin FrankLAN - combine your tech and history knowledge in one smart nameSecret Network - for all those wannabe James BondsHogwarts Great Hall - because that castle should really have Wi-Fi by now…Nearby Wi-Fi - sometimes, you just want to mess with people…Virus-Infected Wi-Fi -….and sometimes you just want them to leave you alone!FBI Surveillance - just for a little extra fun, along with…FBI Channel 90210 - we would love to see how many people want to hack thisJustin Bieber - this one is super popular. We're not sure why either. At least it makes a little more sense than…Nicolas Cage - because why wouldn't you name your Wi-Fi network that?Wi-Fry Chicken - as long as you are prepared to risk being hungry every time you connectAnd finally: Chicken Crossed The Road To Steal Our Wi-Fi. This may be our favorite of all time, and no explanation is needed as to why.

Final Thoughts

Naming your Wi-Fi network and experimenting with cool Wi-Fi names can be fun and amusing, but it can also offer benefits for privacy, security, and for building your brand - and this is a task that is super easy to achieve, so why not let your imagination run a little wild?

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/change-name/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140182 Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:50:14 +0100
How To Connect Brother Printer To Wi-Fi As any tech fan will know, when your technology works well, it can be a dream - but when things start to go south, the dream can quickly become a nightmare.

Printers, in particular, can be a sore spot. These are devices that seem to have their own mind, and will often point-blank refuse to co-operate or respond to your commands, regardless of how well you treat them, or how well you coax, plead or threaten them.

Connecting the printer to the Wi-Fi tends to be one of the most difficult challenges, but fortunately, we are on hand to try to minimize the stress, lighten the load, and get your printer hooked up in no time.

Ready? Then let's take a deep breath, and get started!

Before You Connect Your Brother Printer

Before you can successfully connect your Brother printer to the network, you will first need to locate the wireless network settings that are attached to your access point or wireless router.

There are two specific details that you will need to locate, and these include:

Network Name (this may also be referred to as "SSID" or "ESSID")Network Key (this may also be referred to as your "Security Key", "Password" or the "Encryption Key")

The Network name (or SSID) and Network Key (or Password) can be located on the side or the base of your access point, or your wireless router. You may have to check the specific documentation that came with your router or access point to discover exactly where this is.

It is important to note that you will not be able to source this information from Brother; the Network Password and Network name belong to your internet service, not your printer, and so you will need to access the manufacturer of your ruler, or your internet service provider if the details are not present on your router or access point.

Once you have located the network information for your access point or your wireless router, you can then start the process of connecting your printer to your Wi-Fi.

As a note, if you have an access point or wireless router that utilizes a WEP encryption using multiple WEP keys, you should take care to make a note of the first WEP key only.

Connecting Your Brother Printer To The Wireless Network

Once you have the information that you need, you can move on to connecting your printer to the network.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this guide has helped you in understanding how to set up your Brother printer and connect to a wireless network. It is important to note that this guide only covers basic steps and that additional information can be found at the Brother website.

Also, please keep in mind that the steps outlined above may differ slightly depending on the operating system that you are using.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/connect-brother-printer/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140383 Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:42:42 +0100
How To Forget A Wi-Fi Network On Mac Wi-Fi is an incredible tool that helps us every day of our lives – but we all know the sense of frustration that can occur when things go wrong!

Whether the Wi-Fi on your Mac won't stay connected, keeps dropping out, or just pretends it has never met your laptop, forgetting a network can be a great way to reset things and start again – hopefully with better results!

To help, we have everything you need to know about how to forget a network on your Mac, and hopefully save you from your Wi-Fi woes!

Why Do You Need To Forget A Network?

Before we take a closer look at the best ways to forget a network, you may be wondering why this is necessary. We have touched upon this briefly, but it is worth taking the time for a closer look below.

Networks are simply a collection of devices that use Wi-Fi in order to communicate with each other. They're often used to access resources such as internet services, files, printers, etc., so if something goes wrong with them, you may want to get rid of them.

You've probably experienced this before: Your Wi-Fi connection drops out intermittently, so after a while, you just decide to connect manually.

This works fine for a bit until you notice your computer isn't connecting to the network anymore, forcing you to manually reconnect every time you try to load something up.

The same thing happens to you when you walk outside without any Wi-Fi around, only to find yourself back home later on…

Forgetting a network is one solution here; another would be to set up your Mac's Wi-Fi to not automatically join networks.

It is possible to do this, but unfortunately, there is no easy way to configure your Mac for this kind of behavior. If setting it up was too much work, though, then following these steps will turn it into automatic mode ASAP.

Final Thoughts

The next time you're stuck with poor connectivity, or you are experiencing problems like intermittent connections, forget all about resetting the entire networking stack – you can forget a network! Use this clever little trick to reboot your network, and make things perfect right away.

We hope this article has been able to help you get rid of bad network habits and improve your overall experience as a user.

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https://www.pcguide.com/wifi/how-to/forget-a-network-on-mac/ https://www.pcguide.com/?p=140411 Tue, 05 Apr 2022 16:39:47 +0100