Internet access - how to test

[Cathyhuns]

Our internet access at home is not good as we are some distance from the exchange. However recently we have been losing internet connectivity more and more.

Today, after we restarted the computer with the modem disconnected and then reconnected the modem, we got the internet back for 5 minutes. Did the same again and got the internet back again by restarting the computer and modem.

How can we test whether there is a fault in the modem or the connections to the computer (without buying a new one) or whether it is just that we are effectively at the "end of the phone line"? ie what different symptoms would we get between a modem fault and a line fault?

Many thanks

[ACtheTROLL]

you don't say if dialup/adsl .....
so the only question is ... is the line noisy?

try disconnecting all equipment ... and either ring 151 or log onto bt.com and get the line tested .... go from there

[douggym]

Hi cathyhuns. I suffered long with the same problem. We are on the limit of broadband coverage from our local exchange. I have 2 phone lines and I was only able to get BBand on one. My neighbour 10 yards away was completely out of range. I was constantly losing my internet connection. However after much frustration and many calls to my ISP (AOL) someone suggested checking the phone line fully at my end.
I was told to disconnect the phone plug at the main phone-in box in my house. Unscrew the 2 screws and take off the lower part of the cover, check all the wires are intact and connected (one of mine was a bit loose), and try plugging the phone/computer modem line into the test socket which is under the cover on the right hand side.
This done, it works a treat for me.