• Windows network connections occasionally require troubleshooting.Mensch und Computer 5 image by Sven Rausch from Fotolia.com
  
  Windows-based computers have the ability to connect to other computers and devices via a home network. Home networking allows users to share files, access the internet and print and fax documents. Sometimes, a home network becomes unresponsive and one or more computers have trouble with the connection. When this happens, there are a number of possible causes. These causes can be determined by going through some troubleshooting steps to fix the networking issues.
  
  

Loose Connection Cords

• If your computer connects to the network via an Ethernet cord, check to make sure this cord is properly inserted into both the computer and the router. Push the plug as far in as you can and give it a test tug to make sure it is securely in place. After placing the cord in properly, try connecting to the network again. For computers using a wireless connection, ensure that your wireless signal in your computer is turned on. If it is, check to make sure the cable from the router to the modem is securely in place.
  
  

Proper Network Configuration

• From time to time, network configuration settings on computers malfunction. This can be due to the installation of new software or other reasons. One of the first problems to look for, according to Microsoft, is whether network discovery is turned on on the computer. This can be done by opening the Network and Sharing Center from the computer's Control Panel. If a network allows computers to connect using a password, make sure the password entered is correct.
  
  

Modem and Router Responsiveness

• In order for the home network to work properly, your computer modem and router must be fully functional. Sometimes, network problems can be solved by restarting the modem and router. To do this, unplug both devices for about thirty seconds. This gives them time to reset. Then, plug in the modem, followed by the router and try the network connection again. In other cases, the modem and router no longer communicate, causing a network breakdown. To see if there is a problem with the modem and router conflicting, disconnect the Ethernet cable from the router and insert it directly into your computer. If network connectivity is restored, the problem is likely between the router and modem.