ELIMINATE NETWORK CONGESTION
If a wireless network is too busy, 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, separate your wireless
network from the device.
CHANGE THE CHANNEL THE WIRELESS ROUTER USES
You can sometimes eliminate interference from unknown sources by changing the channel your wireless router uses
to broadcast. There are three distinct channels on a router. Check 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, change the channel setting to use a different distinct channel. Refer to the manual that
came with your wireless router if you are not sure how to change the channel.
CONFIGURE THE WIRELESS ROUTER 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 wireless router from the default. Refer to the manual
that came with your router if you are not sure how to change the SSID.
Note: You must change the SSID on all of the other devices that access your wireless network if you change the SSID
on the router.
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 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. Static IP addresses cut down on
the work your wireless router has to do. Refer to the manual that came with your router and your operating system
documentation if you are not sure how to assign static IP addresses.
Troubleshooting
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