Mobile Broadband is fantastic, letting you access the internet on your computer over a 3G mobile phone network. This gives you a wider range of locations you can connect to the web, as you can gain access almost anywhere you can get a 3G signal. Although this additional access is great as you’re not limited to just Wi-Fi points, signal strengths can come and go. Just like with mobile phones, you may find your connection is subject to the old "going through a tunnel" syndrome from time to time. These issues often sort themselves out when you change location but if you keep finding the signal drops, or can’t even pick one up, here’s a guide to getting your computer on the airwaves again.

The Knowhow

Signal and connection issues

If you experience connection issues, check the signal status and try connecting in a different location - moving higher up or closer to the windows of a building if you’re inside can help.

There may be problems with the mobile signal in your area. Check on the mobile broadband provider website to check coverage in your area.

Re-installing the modem

If you are getting errors relating to the modem or connection, re-install the device drivers:

  • Click Start, type Device Manager in the start search box and press Enter
  • Look in the list to see if the 3G modem is listed. This will normally be located in the Modem section
  • If the 3G modem is not listed, try it in a different port on your computer. If the 3G modem still can’t be detected, contact your mobile broadband provider
  • If the 3G modem is listed, right click it and select uninstall
  • Right click any device in the list and click scan for hardware changes
  • Try connecting to the internet again

Re-installing the software

Try re-installing the mobile broadband software if you encounter software errors. You may need any installation discs that came with the modem to complete this process:

  • Click start, type programs and features in the start search box and press Enter
  • Locate the Mobile broadband software in the list and highlight it
  • Press uninstall on the bar above the list of programs
  • Follow the uninstall wizard to remove the software from your computer
  • Re-connect the modem to your computer
  • Click on the launch setup icon that appears on the autoplay window and follow the instructions to re-install the mobile broadband software back onto your computer
  • Try the connection again

Further help and support troubleshooting your internet connection is available from your mobile broadband provider.

Links for the support sites for mobile broadband

O2 vodafone 3 orange

Updated On:

Nov 21, 2011

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