A wireless connection adds the convenience of mobility to all the other appealing benefits of Internet connectivity, putting the vast information that is available online at your fingertips even when you are not at a desk. And once you are accustomed to that level of convenience, few things are more frustrating than losing a wireless Internet connection when you need to send an e-mail or find an important piece of information right away.

Fortunately, many wireless Internet problems are caused by situations that are relatively easy to fix. Even if you are not a gifted Internet technician, you may be able to restore your wireless Internet connection yourself without having to wait for technical support.

The first step in preserving your wireless Internet connection is ensuring that your connection is set up properly from the beginning. If you plan on installing your own wireless Internet hardware, be sure that the pieces of hardware will be compatible. Everything you purchase, which may include a wireless router and network cards, should have information on the package about compatibility.

If you are shopping online, the company that produces the components should have a website detailing any compatibility issues with the products. If you are making the purchase in a store, make sure that the sales representatives explain how the components should be used for optimum effectiveness. Above all, be sure that you have the option of returning any items that do not work properly or that turn out to be incompatible with your other hardware.

For wireless Internet connectivity issues that arise after the hardware has been installed, checking the cables can be helpful. If any of the cables are loose or disconnected, or if the power supply is not connected, your wireless Internet connection will be compromised or nonexistent.

Indicator lights will alert you to any problems with your connection, and lights that are flashing or off entirely are a sign that your connection needs to be checked. Turning off the router and waiting a few minutes before switching it back on can correct some wireless Internet connection problems

If you are doing business with an Internet contractor, you will have access to some technical support. Should you have problems with your modem, you will have the option of calling your provider and requesting diagnostics.

If the company's tests reveal that your modem is working properly, you may have to recheck all your cables and connections. If, on the other hand, it turns out that your modem is the source of the problem, your contractor will probably replace that piece of equipment.

Issues with hardware supplied by your contractor are easily taken care of, and in many cases the diagnostic services will be able to pinpoint any wireless connectivity problems without a technical support representative needing to visit your home or office.