Remote working is the “new normal.” However, it is highly unlikely that you will get a one-size-fits-all experience with this approach. Having said that, some organizations adapted quickly with minimal interference, while others struggled with IT matters or technical glitches.
Still, many find work-from-home a luxury, especially with the freedom to do things for yourself in between breaks. But for many others, the reality is not that pleasing at all. Let’s be honest, those software tools not responding, low-quality video calls or tailored software programs often become a barrier to your productivity and efficiency.
And since you can’t call an IT department for an issue, you have to deal with many technical problems on your own. If you also wish to achieve a work-from-home nirvana, the following fixes will help you navigate the challenges throughout your work from your residence timeline.
Let’s begin!
Your Device’s Internet Connectivity is Causing a Headache
Work from home feels like a flexible strategy that promotes work-life balance. But there is an IF. And that is “if your internet connection is working to its full potential.” Sometimes it might feel like the internet is hindering your important work calls/tasks.
There might be multiple reasons causing such a setback. Look at the following reasons that might be causing this issue.
Your system might be the culprit
Before you start calling the IT department over this issue, look through your system to check if it is the root cause of your problem. For this, you can try connecting the Wi-Fi with other devices. If they connect easily, then you can ascertain that it’s your system that’s the problem.
For this, all you need to do is re-enable Wi-Fi and get back to your business. To further confirm the issue, you can see if it is in airplane mode. Once you flip it, your computer should automatically connect to the internet connection.
Your modem/router fails to connect
While many of you might think of modems or routers as one device, they are two different devices. However, since many ISPs use modem/router combo, you might require an additional router to extend the Wi-Fi signal if you happen to live in a bigger place.
First, to get things started, go for an internet speed test to check if you are getting upload/download speed. If you aren’t getting any, you need to reset your device. For this, unplug the device, wait for 30 seconds and then connect again.
You are facing ISP issues
Sometimes everything is fine. But still, you are unable to connect with your internet. In that case, there might be a technical issue related to ISP. But hang on! Before you start looking for a number to call your internet provider with rage, consider following some tips to fix things at your end.
Remember, ISPs cut off or limit your download speeds if you don’t have a cap on your internet plan. Also, with so many internet users in a house, it might cause your internet to crawl. Sometimes, ISPs also go for a temporary outage for maintenance. So, before taking the next step, make sure that you troubleshoot all these issues at your end.
Your device browsers are causing an issue
Sometimes it’s not the internet but the sluggish performance of your browsers that’s the culprit. Here are some quick fixes to amend the situation. First, make sure you have the latest browser version. Sometimes disabled media plugins might be causing an issue. To fix this, go to settings and turn them back on.
If nothing works, you can try uninstalling or reinstalling the browser, along with clearing the cache, cookies that might be causing the issue.
Your Device’s Hardware is The Main Culprit
Whether you are using a desktop or a laptop, it is the greatest asset when working from home. Yet after a while, some of its components might start acting up. Can you afford to lose an important client call or a critical stakeholders meeting just because you have no idea what’s causing the issue?
So, let’s help you fix those errors right away!
Your laptop is shutting down because of charging issues
The reasons can vary from person to person. But mainly, a broken connection, incorrect settings, hardware issues, or battery problems cause the charging problems. For example, if you are using a Macbook Pro and cannot charge it, before moving to troubleshoot your MacBook Pro not charging issue, make sure you check whether there are any breakages on the cables or see if your laptop’s overheating is causing the problem.
Your device’s touchpad is acting up
Unless you have an external mouse to carry out your tasks as a backup, touchpad issues might hinder your productivity to a great extent. To resolve this issue, check it for moisture issues. If that’s not the case, see if you mistakenly disabled it. And if, in the end, nothing works, make sure to update your touchpad driver for better functionality.
Your Device Contains a Malware/Virus
Now that you need to work remotely, it doesn’t mean that you can ignore the security aspect. Remember, it is an integral part while working. Otherwise, you won’t be able to protect your company’s sensitive information, thereby ruining the company’s reputation.
Can you afford to do that? Of course not!
In that case, you need to install security programs on your device, as mentioned by your employer. And if you happen to see signs like inordinate popups or unexpected system behavior, talk to the IT department right away.
However, if you follow the steps below, you can limit the exposure to malware or viruses.
- Never click on websites that don’t have updated SSL certificates.
- Please don’t open any file except it’s from a reputed website.
- Don’t open emails forwarded from any unknown sender.
Final Takeaways
Understandably, everyone can’t be a technological guru. And that’s something you should be embarrassed about. In an office setting, all you need is to call an IT department to rectify such issues. However, since COVID changed everything, you need to fend for yourself. Remember, these technical issues must never limit your productivity or efficiency.
So, if you are struggling with the technical aspect of working from home, hopefully, the tips mentioned above will help you navigate through the challenges smoothly.
