Start here · Essential guide
Computer Troubleshooting 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixes
Learn a simple, repeatable way to troubleshoot computer problems, from the first step to common fixes for slow PCs, freezes, Wi-Fi drops and when to get help.
Tech troubleshooting
Fix it fast, get back online.
Practical tech troubleshooting guides: router lights and resets, WiFi dropouts and slow internet, router login and privacy, WiFi standards and choosing a router.
97 in-depth guides
18 topics
Oct 2026 latest guide
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Each one links on to more specific articles in its topic.
Gateway vs Router: Are They the Same Thing?
A gateway and a router are not quite the same. Learn how ISP gateways differ from routers and modems, what double NAT is, and which setup suits your home.
Router Parts Explained: How to Identify Your Router's Components
A plain-English tour of a home router's ports, buttons, lights, antennas and internal parts, plus how to find your router's make and model.
Can You Use Any Router? A Compatibility Guide
Almost any standard router works with your internet, but the modem, ISP gateway, and Wi-Fi speed matter. Here is how to check compatibility before you buy.
What the Lights on Your Router Mean
Learn what the power, internet, Wi-Fi, LAN, WPS and DSL lights on a router usually mean, how colors and blinking differ, and what to try first when one looks wrong.
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Computer & Router Basics
General troubleshooting, modem and router basics, ports and hardware, and choosing a router.
General Computer Troubleshooting 6 guides, starting with Computer Troubleshooting 101: A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixes. 6 guides Modem Router Basics 6 guides, starting with Gateway vs Router: Are They the Same Thing?. 6 guides Router Ports & Hardware 7 guides, starting with Router Parts Explained: How to Identify Your Router’s Components. 7 guides Choosing & Replacing a Router 7 guides, starting with Can You Use Any Router? A Compatibility Guide. 7 guides
Router Lights & Resets
What router lights mean, restarting and resetting, and power and schedules.
Router Light Meanings 5 guides, starting with What the Lights on Your Router Mean. 5 guides Router Light Colors 7 guides, starting with Router Flashing Red: What It Means and How to Fix It. 7 guides Router Restart & Reset 6 guides, starting with How to Factory Reset a Netgear Nighthawk Router. 6 guides Router Power & Schedules 7 guides, starting with Should You Unplug Your Router at Night?. 7 guides
WiFi Problems
Dropouts, missing networks, slow internet, coverage and connecting devices.
Router Connection Dropouts 5 guides, starting with Why Your Router Keeps Going Out and How to Stop It. 5 guides Wifi Network Not Showing 3 guides, starting with Netgear Router Not Showing Wi-Fi: How to Get Your Network Back. 3 guides Slow Internet & Router Speed 8 guides, starting with Netgear Router Slowing Down Your Internet: Fixes. 8 guides Wifi Coverage & Range 6 guides, starting with Where to Put Your Wi-Fi Router: Upstairs or Downstairs?. 6 guides Connecting Devices to Wifi 3 guides, starting with How to Connect a Non-Smart TV to Wi-Fi. 3 guides
WiFi Standards & Mobile
WiFi bands and standards, mobile WiFi, and phone service on a router.
Wifi Bands & Standards 4 guides, starting with Dual-Band vs Tri-Band Routers: Which Do You Need?. 4 guides Mobile & Portable Wifi 3 guides, starting with How Portable Wi-Fi Routers and Hotspots Work. 3 guides Voip & Phone On Router 4 guides, starting with VoIP Router Setup: What You Need for Internet Calling. 4 guides
Login & Privacy
Router login and passwords, privacy and parental controls.