5 Optimum Network Troubleshooting Tools For IP Pros
Last updated on October 9th, 2023 at 01:07 pm
We’ve all experienced the frustration of a phone call that doesn’t go through. Sometimes the line is dead silent for minutes at a time; other times, we can hear a distant buzzing or ringing that sounds like it’s coming from the next county. Everybody faces problems someday or another, yes even IT experts. Surprise! Not funny because it hinders their work but makes them a little more relatable to everybody.
So essentially, whenever they face any issues, they use troubleshooting methods for the network to make it perfect for use. It’s all down to the complex web of wires and cables that make up the telephone system. When your Internet is down or doesn’t work the way it should, your first instinct may be to run a web search or search online forums for help.
But there are several reasons why you might run into issues with the Internet, and a web search won’t always turn up the answers you’re looking for. That’s where network troubleshooting comes in.
There are several simple steps you can take to figure out the source of the issue and get the Internet working again. Network troubleshooting is an essential skill for anyone looking to get the most out of their Internet.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best network troubleshooting tools available online, so you can quickly identify and resolve any issues that might be preventing you from getting online. We’ll also look at some of the most common internet problems, so you can resolve any problems that crop up quickly and easily.
Finally, we’ll take a look at some of the most effective ways to troubleshoot a network, so you can resolve any issues that crop up when you least expect them. The best way to do this is to use a network troubleshooting tool. There are some essential IP Addresses like 192.168.10.10, which can help establish a connection between the router and the internet. Some guides are available on RouterLogin to help with the login and reset of these routers.
Let us look at the tools now.
1. PING
Ping is the most prominently used network troubleshooting tool. It mainly helps determine the latency and the packet loss, and it’s excellent for quickly troubleshooting network issues. With its help, you can check with ease if the network is down or not, and it functions in most operating systems. The method to test is carried out by using Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP).
One of the best things about using a ping tool is that you don’t have to be a network technician to use it. Most ping tools allow you to ping a range of IP addresses so that you can test your internet connection from any location. This means you can use them to figure out where the issue lies without accessing your computer. Some even offer a “live Ping” feature, which allows you to ping a URL from anywhere in the world.
2. NSLOOKUP
The DNS (or Dynamic Name System) faces the most common networking troubleshooting issues and is used by everyone using the Internet to resolve commonly known domain names. These include domain names such as www.google.com, and when this function is malfunctioning, most of the Internet or website functionality impedes usage and breaks down. NSLOOKUP or Name Server LookUp is a command used to determine if the DNS Server resolves names.
3. NETSTAT
Combining the words’ network’ and ‘statistics’ is essentially helpful on servers or hosts that run their firewalls, and it works on Windows, LINUX, or NIX-like operating systems. It tells us who’s connected to the host and at what ports. It’s usually used to provide more security or help a security system that has been breached.
4. Tracert/Traceroute
Ping usually provides the basic information, but gathering more specific information about the path and route is required. Tracert is used in Windows, while Traceroute is used in LINUX or UNIX-like operating systems. They’re both very indispensable for any IT company, and it was less evident in a private network.
5. Subnet and IP calculator
Conversion of any kind takes up a lot of time for some people, especially when it is from binary to decimal, Hexadecimal to octal, or just a mash of all of them. Eventually, it becomes a pain. So instead of bothering to do all the work by yourself, it’s easier when the calculator does it for you! This is why senior-level network engineers use this tool. It’s quick and easy for anyone to use.
You must’ve come across your browser not functioning to its maximum or putting in less usage. Right? Here are some may or may not you should have a look at.
Use HTTPS to browse safely:
If the website can be seen via HTTPS, you should choose that option since it will allow you to access the website’s content without alerting your ISP. The HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the fundamental technological protocol that enables us to navigate the internet and link content. In a nutshell, the technology facilitates communication between the web user and the web server.
So, what exactly is HTTPS? The S at the end signifies a Secured Socket Layer; thus, it still stands for HyperText Transfer Protocol (SSL). As a result, it’s a somewhat different sort of protocol designed to assure safe transactions. SSL is a type of secure encryption used by the web protocol to ensure fast data transfer. As you may recall, your ISP can only see your web activity if it isn’t encrypted.
Known eCommerce websites or online retailers, such as eBay or Amazon, extensively use HTTPS. Because your ISP (or anyone else) cannot see the numbers you use when entering your credit card information, internet purchasing is safe and secure. To summarize, seek HTTPS while visiting the web, indicating a secure browsing experience.
Use Tor to browse anonymously:
It’s crucial to note that HTTPS encrypts your data, not anonymizes it. On the other hand, Tor can help you disguise your footprints and improve the security of your browsing history. Because Tor can route your traffic through various virtual tunnels, it isn’t easy to track you when you use it, and you may travel from one site to another without leaving any trace. Bellow’s a more thorough description of how Tor works, but we’ll give you a nutshell version here.
Tor has created a network of networks and virtual tunnels that allow users to access the Internet safely. It’s also a valuable tool for developers since it enables them to design superior communication software with built-in privacy protections. Tor has formed the foundation for a slew of apps advertised to consumers as secure communication tools for exchanging information and talking without third-party eavesdropping.
Users use Tor to protect themselves and their families from being tracked by websites and connect to instant messaging services and news sites.
Tor also allows users to post on websites without revealing their location, making forums, chat rooms, and other venues where socially sensitive issues are the primary focus of conversation possible. Tor has enabled survivors, victims of abuse or rape, and individuals with illnesses to share internet chat rooms knowing that no one is listening in.
Many individuals are concerned about their personal information being available on the Internet. Can your ISP (Internet Service Provider) know what you’re downloading and monitor your history?
An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is a firm that provides you with Internet access. Some are privately owned and operated, while others are community-owned and worked. However, they all track your internet behavior, ostensibly to improve the user experience.
Fortunately, there is a workaround. It accomplishes this by encrypting your data and preventing your ISP from viewing, tracking, or storing it. This also protects all your online activities from hackers and third parties.
IPVanish VPN:
IPVanish is a well-known and dependable VPN service, and some even consider it the best VPN service available. They have simple, quick-to-use software that is well-liked worldwide for its privacy to customers.
They have over 60 servers worldwide and are completely capable of securing your sensitive data or letting you watch your favorite shows on Netflix or other networks by disguising your location and allowing you to pick from the options provided.
IPVanish supports Windows, iOS, and Android, and if you are dissatisfied with their service, they will refund your money if you request it within seven days.