Blog | G5 Cyber Security

Fix Blocked Connections

G5 Cyber Security

TL;DR

Your internet connection is blocked? This guide helps you quickly find and fix common problems causing this, from firewall settings to network configuration. We’ll cover checking your basics, looking at software firewalls, examining router settings, and diagnosing DNS issues.

1. Check the Basics

  1. Restart Everything: This is always first! Turn off your computer, modem, and router. Wait 30 seconds, then turn them back on in this order: modem, router, computer.
  2. Check Cables: Make sure all cables (Ethernet, power) are securely plugged into both devices. Look for any damaged cables.
  3. Test Another Device: If possible, try connecting another device to your network. If it works, the problem is likely with your computer. If it doesn’t work, the issue is probably with your modem or router.

2. Software Firewall Issues

Your computer’s firewall might be blocking connections for certain programs.

  1. Windows Defender Firewall:
    • Search for “Firewall” in the Windows search bar and open “Windows Defender Firewall”.
    • Click “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall”.
    • Check if the program you’re trying to use is listed. If not, click “Allow another app…”, browse to the program’s executable file (.exe), and add it. Make sure both ‘Private’ and ‘Public’ checkboxes are ticked if appropriate.
  2. Third-Party Firewalls: If you have antivirus software with a firewall (e.g., Norton, McAfee), open the software and check its firewall settings. Look for blocked applications or network connections. Temporarily disabling the firewall (use caution!) can help determine if it’s the cause of the problem.

3. Router Settings

Your router might be blocking connections, either intentionally or due to a misconfiguration.

  1. Access Your Router: Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). You’ll need your router’s username and password (often found on a sticker on the router itself; default is often ‘admin’ for both).
  2. Check Blocked Devices: Look for a section called “Blocked Devices” or similar. Make sure your computer isn’t listed there. Remove it if it is.
  3. Port Forwarding (Advanced): If the program requires specific ports to be open, you might need to set up port forwarding in your router settings. This is more complex and depends on the program; consult its documentation for instructions.

4. DNS Problems

Your Domain Name System (DNS) server translates website names into IP addresses. If it’s not working correctly, you won’t be able to connect to websites.

  1. Flush DNS Cache: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type: 
    ipconfig /flushdns

    Press Enter.

  2. Change DNS Servers: Consider using public DNS servers like Google’s (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) or Cloudflare’s (1.1.1.1). In Windows:
    • Search for “Control Panel” and open it.
    • Go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
    • Right-click your network connection and select Properties.
    • Select “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” and click Properties.
    • Select “Use the following DNS server addresses”. Enter Google’s or Cloudflare’s DNS servers in the ‘Preferred DNS server’ and ‘Alternate DNS server’ fields.

5. Check Proxy Settings

Incorrect proxy settings can block internet access.

  1. Windows Proxy Settings: Search for “Proxy” in the Windows search bar and open “Proxy settings”. Ensure that ‘Automatically detect settings’ is turned on, or if you need to use a specific proxy, verify its details are correct. If you don’t need a proxy, make sure ‘Use a proxy server’ is switched off.
Exit mobile version