Why is my internet periodically working?

Question

Here's how it is weird... it will work for about 10 minutes, when it says it is NOT CONNECTED--that's when it works. And when the internet no longer works (as it does so often--as said, like every 10 minutes), I have to open the Wireless Network Connections window on my XP. When I press (and this is routine) "Connect" on my network, I have to press cancel soon after, because it does nothing. Then it works again, and then the cycle continues... Any ideas how to fix this? My other computers work, so it's not the network, it's the computer. Thanks.

Answer 1

Are your other computers wireless?  Are you within range?

What comes to mind is interference from a cordless phone.

Answer 2

I could type out a few things for you to check, but as someone who does technical support for a living, I recommend that you contact your Internet Service Provider and have them walk you through a few steps to check the settings on your laptop and troubleshoot the problem with you.  

I understand that your other computers are working properly, which is all the more reason for you to isolate the laptop and have the settings checked.  There are several possibilities as to why this is happening for you and it's best to call the people that you pay for the service with.

Answer 3

Hmmm...check the channel on the card and see if it's on 11.  that one usually works pretty good.  Other than that, try downloading Advanced Windows care from iobit.com.  That's a great tool to help keeping your machine running smoothly and will optimize your internet connection too.  Use the Beta version, it ROCKS!!!!!  Also, make sure your router is setup to handle how ever many computers you have that you want to run.  Default is 50...mines set to only 3.  And make SURE the router is not within 3 feet of any electronics.