Ethernet Connectivity - how to?

[dredski]

Hi, I have recently started using Sky Broadband and been hugely disappointed in the speed (or lack thereof). I can't even use IPlayer with the laptop sat right next to the router. The PS3 is equally rubbish. So, I thought I would try the Ethernet connection (based on an assumption it would be quicker). I can't get it to be recognised. I tried the Sky process several times then wondered why I was bothering but can't get it to recognise a new connection either - even though when it fails and I test it, it says it's working. It's the new DLink router and both laptops I have tried it with are Sony Vaios. Wireless worked out of the box, no problem. Of course, after swapping suppliers I checked the exchange speeds - doh! I am not looking to do anything extraordinary but can't live with this. I live in Edinburgh.

[Isitme]

When you connect with Ethernet make sure your wireless on the laptop is switch off. There should be no problem connecting with ethernet.

[dredski]

Yup - it was definitely off - if only life were that simple....mind you it's probably something as daft as that.

[Exdee]

I would check the tcp/ipv4 settings to make sure everything is set to be 'obtained automatically'

[Isitme]

Open a Command Prompt and type ipconfig /all hit Enter What is shown as you laptop IP address?

What OS are you using?

[dredski]

I have tried Vista and Windows 7 - different laptops.

[Scubbie]

Hi dredski,

Firstly you may wish to remove your email address from the Exchange field in your profile. Spam bots will pick this up and your in-box will be full of spam, if it isn't already.

Secondly, take a look at the following link:

Setting a Static IP Address in Windows 7 - PortForward.com

...but at the point where it talks about setting up a fixed IP (the last picture near the bottom of the page), I suspect that you have already done this. You need to click on the radial button beside 'Obtain an IP address automatically'. You can do the same for the radial button beside the DNS Server selection too (i.e. set it to automatic).

This process is almost identical for both windows 7 and Windows Vista.

This should clear everything for you.

[dredski]

with wireless on it's 192.168.0.5.

[Scubbie]

Your wireless adaptor will have a different IP address to the Ethernet Adaptor.

Treat them as totally different items.

If your problem is with the Ethernet, then it is this adaptor that you need to examine.

[dredski]

fixed - it was a stupid thing, as suspected. My lan connection was disabled, I enabled it, and checked settings like you suggested - nothing needed changed and off it went. Perfect, I am logged on like that now.

Now to address the Sky speed issue - I have contacted them so let's see what happens.

Thanks again, all