ELIMINATE NETWORK CONGESTION
If a wireless network is too busy, then the computer and printer may have difficulty communicating with each
other. Some causes of wireless network congestion can include:
• Transferring large files across the network
• Networked games
• Peer-to-peer file swapping applications
• Streaming video
• Too many computers on the wireless network at once
ELIMINATE SOURCES OF INTERFERENCE
Common household items can potentially disrupt wireless network communications. Cordless phones (but not
cellular phones), microwave ovens, baby monitors, almost any kitchen appliance, wireless surveillance equipment,
nearby wireless networks, and any appliance containing a motor can disrupt wireless network communications.
Try turning on any potential sources of interference and see if it causes the problem. If it does, then separate your
wireless network from the device.
CHANGE THE CHANNEL THE ACCESS POINT USES
You can sometimes eliminate interference from unknown sources by changing the channel your access point uses
to broadcast. There are three distinct channels on a router. See the documentation that came with your router to
determine which three apply. Other channels are offered as options, but these overlap. If the router is configured
to use the default settings, then change the channel setting to use a different distinct channel. If you are not sure
how to change the channel, then see the documentation that came with your access point.
CONFIGURE THE ACCESS POINT WITH A UNIQUE SSID
Many wireless networks use the SSID that the router was originally configured by the manufacturer to use. Using
the default SSID can cause problems when more than one network is operating in the same area with the same
SSID. The printer or computer may attempt to attach to the wrong network, although it will appear to be trying to
connect to the correct network.
To avoid this type of interference, change the SSID on your access point from the default. If you are not sure how
to change the SSID, then see the documentation that came with your access point.
Note: You must change the SSID on all of the other devices that access your wireless network if you change the
SSID on the access point.
ASSIGN STATIC IP ADDRESSES TO ALL DEVICES IN THE NETWORK
Most wireless networks use a DHCP server (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) built in to the wireless router to
assign IP addresses to clients on the wireless network. DHCP addresses are assigned when they are needed, as
when a new device is added to the wireless network or when it is powered on. Wireless devices must send a request
to the router, and receive an IP address in response so they can function on the network. Because the wireless
router performs many other tasks besides assigning addresses, it sometimes does not respond quickly enough
with an address. The requesting device sometimes gives up before it receives an address.
Try assigning static IP addresses to the devices in your network to resolve this issue.
Troubleshooting
170
