My PC's wired internet connection has been unstable for about a month. The connection randomly switches between limited internet access and completely disconnected, usually every 5–15 seconds. After roughly five minutes, it often drops entirely. A Windows Network Reset temporarily fixes the problem, but I've had to repeat it almost every day, so I'm worried there's an underlying hardware or network issue.
The computer is about 5.5 years old, with 32 GB of RAM and a 3.60 GHz processor. I've tried both 35-foot and 25-foot Ethernet cables. The PC is connected through an internet booster rather than directly to the main router. Another computer using the same booster remains connected reliably. What should I test to determine whether the problem is the booster, Ethernet cable, network adapter, or something else on the PC?
2 Answers
First isolate the failing part by temporarily moving the PC close to the main router and connecting it directly with a short Ethernet cable. If the connection becomes stable, the booster, its Ethernet port, or the long cable run is likely responsible. If it still disconnects, focus on the PC’s Ethernet adapter, driver, or network hardware.
Another device working through the same booster doesn’t completely rule it out, since different Ethernet ports, cables, or network adapters can behave differently. Try swapping the cable and booster port, then test the PC directly at the router. If it only fails through the booster, troubleshoot or replace the booster; if it fails everywhere, reinstall or update the PC’s Ethernet driver and check the adapter for hardware problems.
The PC is currently connected through an internet booster, although another computer works normally through it. I’ll still test a direct connection to the main router to rule the booster out completely.