Wireless changes channel! Freaking out here...

[Why Syzygy]

This is freaking me out! My wireless adapter has always been on channel '8'. I did make a service call yesterday, and it seemed like they took me offline, when I got the message that the adapter couldn't find the access point (modem). I called them because it appears that one of their servers is down. Tracert shows it times out on the second hop, which is still on their network because the next hop, and four more are. I was failing to reach a certain website.

I've got a service call scheduled here on Tuesday. But I just notice my channel has been changed to '11'! That can't be changed by them from a distance, can it?

[Why Syzygy]

1. Could it be ...

I'm doing some google to try to find an explanation.

During the call to tech support, I was transferred to tier 3. And, now that I think about it, I think they do have a way to access the settings in the modem/router. While I was waiting, the control panel for the adapter went offline and could not connect to the modem. When she came back on the line, she seemed very confident that I would now be able to get to that site. I could not.

But what doesn't make sense, I don't know if changing the channel would route me through different network servers. When I tech'd we had to call the NOC (network operations center) in cases like this. They were the only ones who could address the issue. But maybe I WAS connected to the NOC. Tier 3 doesn't work on weekends; so it will be Monday before I can even talk to them.

.. back to googs

[Mnpaul]

2. It uses the best channel available

Someone else nearby may be using channel 8 now.

[Why Syzygy]

3. That's not

the way this works. It is coded into the hardware through an application software.

In fact, someone else is on channel 11 now, also. I can see all the wireless networks in my area.

[Mnpaul]

4. Sure it does

On my Zonet adapters, I can select the channel. I'm usually on channel three but if my neighbor is using that channel it will select a different one. Channel selection is only for wireless communication between the adapter and the router.

[Why Syzygy]

5. That's what I said....

YOU can change the channel. The adapter doesn't change it by itself.

I've had this exact set up for four years. I changed the channel once by myself, following instructions I no longer have, during the first year. Since then I haven't changed anything.

[Why Syzygy]

6. thank

you for trying to help. I did all the scans, so I'll just give them a call tomorrow.