What specialized tools are required to fix common network issues?

1 Network Cable Tester

One of the simplest but essential tools for network repair is a network cable tester. This device can help you check the continuity, connectivity, and quality of network cables, such as Ethernet, coaxial, or fiber optic cables. A network cable tester can detect faults, breaks, shorts, or miswires in the cables, and indicate the results with LED lights or a display screen. You can use a network cable tester to verify the installation of new cables, troubleshoot existing cables, or identify the type and speed of the cables.

2 Wi-Fi Analyzer

Another common network issue is poor or unstable Wi-Fi signal. This can be caused by various factors, such as interference, congestion, or misconfiguration. To fix this issue, you need a Wi-Fi analyzer tool that can scan and monitor the wireless networks in your area. A Wi-Fi analyzer can show you the SSID, channel, frequency, signal strength, and security of each network, and help you find the best spot and settings for your Wi-Fi router. You can use a Wi-Fi analyzer to optimize your Wi-Fi performance, avoid interference, or detect unauthorized networks.

3 Ping and Traceroute

Sometimes, the network issue is not related to the physical or wireless layer, but to the network layer. This means that there may be a problem with the routing or communication between your device and the destination server. To fix this issue, you need to use two basic but powerful commands: ping and traceroute. Ping is a command that sends a packet of data to a specific IP address or domain name, and measures the time and success of the response. Traceroute is a command that traces the path of a packet from your device to the destination server, and shows the hops and delays along the way. You can use ping and traceroute to test the connectivity, latency, and reliability of your network, and identify any potential bottlenecks or failures.

4 Port Scanner

Another network issue that may occur at the network layer is related to the ports. Ports are logical endpoints that allow different applications or services to communicate over a network. For example, port 80 is used for HTTP, port 25 is used for SMTP, and port 443 is used for HTTPS. To fix this issue, you need a port scanner tool that can scan and identify the open, closed, or filtered ports on a device or a network. A port scanner can help you verify the security, functionality, and configuration of your network, and detect any unauthorized or malicious activities.

5 Packet Sniffer

A more advanced network issue that may occur at the network layer or above is related to the packets. Packets are units of data that are transmitted over a network, and contain information such as source, destination, protocol, payload, and checksum. To fix this issue, you need a packet sniffer tool that can capture, analyze, and manipulate the packets on a network. A packet sniffer can help you monitor the traffic, performance, and behavior of your network, and troubleshoot any problems or errors.