[foot-loose]

Ok, to follow up from yesterday - I have been running the pc directly off the modem today and its still happening, so that rules out the router.

I spoke to Virgins help desk (25p a feckin minute?!!!). They basically told me to reset all my internet options to default. I tried explaining that it was happening on more than one pc, but the guy wouldn't listen.

So does this mean its likely to be a fault at their end? Could it be anything to do with my modem?

How do I tell a guy who has a limited knowledge of the english language that its his problem, not mine - especially since it only happens now and then and never when im on the phone to him?

[Console]

So does this mean its likely to be a fault at their end? Could it be anything to do with my modem?

Well, I've currently got one of the really old silver ones from NTL, and it happens on that, but I've ordered an upgrade to it, so if it stops after the upgrade then it could have been the modem, but I think it's more likely a problem at their end.

[DemonHorse]

I spoke to Virgins help desk (25p a feckin minute?!!!). They basically told me to reset all my internet options to default. I tried explaining that it was happening on more than one pc, but the guy wouldn't listen.

Yep that sounds like off-the-script Tech Support... used to be free too. Definately isn't worth paying for. I'm due to install my new connection next tuesday and plan on doing it without their 'help'.

[MK Chris]

Considering you work in IT, I would expect you to easily be able to set up your net connection with minimal help (usernames and passwords, etc, obviously.)

[S4B]

Mr S4B works in IT he can't sort out my wireless connection though! I think people who work in IT are rubbish at solving problems - the stock standard response is "try switching it off and on again." As if I don't try that without prompting!

[MK Chris]

What's wrong with your wireless connection?

[foot-loose]

I spoke to Virgins help desk (25p a feckin minute?!!!). They basically told me to reset all my internet options to default. I tried explaining that it was happening on more than one pc, but the guy wouldn't listen.

Yep that sounds like off-the-script Tech Support... used to be free too. Definately isn't worth paying for. I'm due to install my new connection next tuesday and plan on doing it without their 'help'.

But do I have any choice if its their problem?

If there is nothing I can do to sort it out - and from what I can gather, the only thing I can do is replace the modem, which appears to be working fine and I can't see why it would give the errors I am getting - then I need to let them see its their problem and they need to sort it, otherwise - what are we paying for?

If I phone the standard customer support number, then whoever answers wont have a clue what I am on about.

[S4B]

What's wrong with your wireless connection?

It won't work! It tries to connect but won't. It's driving me insane.

[MK Chris]

If I phone the standard customer support number, then whoever answers wont have a clue what I am on about.

You could always (anyone who has worked on the phone, I know this is the arsehole thing to do, but sometimes it is the only way) ask to speak to someone higher. Try explaining it and if they really don't understand, insist on going higher; keep doing that until you speak to someone with a clue.

That or threaten them with Ofcom (Ofcom would regulate broadband suppliers as well, right?)

What's wrong with your wireless connection?

It won't work! It tries to connect but won't. It's driving me insane.

You must get an error? Is the wireless network secured and are you entering the correct WEP/WPA key?

[foot-loose]

If I phone the standard customer support number, then whoever answers wont have a clue what I am on about.

You could always (anyone who has worked on the phone, I know this is the arsehole thing to do, but sometimes it is the only way) ask to speak to someone higher. Try explaining it and if they really don't understand, insist on going higher; keep doing that until you speak to someone with a clue.

That or threaten them with Ofcom (Ofcom would regulate broadband suppliers as well, right?)

What's wrong with your wireless connection?

It won't work! It tries to connect but won't. It's driving me insane.

You must get an error? Is the wireless network secured and are you entering the correct WEP/WPA key?

Yea, but surely they would just refer me back to the high priced technical support line?

[MK Chris]

Who, Ofcom? As far as I know, if you've tried sufficiently to get the problem sorted with the vendor, they will take the case up.

[S4B]

Topher I'll ask you again when I get back from Centre Parcs when I can try and log onto the stupid thing again and you can prove what a dingbat Mr S4B is! xxx

[Walter Sobchak]

When I had problems with my pc I went on the 'Tech support guy' forums who were a great help.

Although my problems stemmed from a 'pop under radio'.
( http://chrismoyles.net/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=38&t=16755)

If you cant sort it from here have a look at this site:
http://www.techguy.org/members/index.php

[foot-loose]

Cheers Walter, although right now i'm of the opinion that if Console don't know, im screwed.

One of my mates, also on Virgin, also seems to be having the same problem.

[Yudster]

Mr S4B works in IT he can't sort out my wireless connection though! I think people who work in IT are rubbish at solving problems - the stock standard response is "try switching it off and on again." As if I don't try that without prompting!

Mr Yudster is a developer and Mr Yudster Junior is a network engineer, specialising in wireless networks. I have all my bases covered. They are both brilliant.

[gbm]

I dont think my mum think me going into IT is as useful as say me becomming a plumber, electrician or mechanic, I have to say that this may be true - mainly because she doesnt really use computers but she does use her car, washing machine and other electrical items. I think it would get a bit tedious having to come home and continue the jobs you've been doing all day - more plumbing on your own kitchen sink etc.

[Gaspode_The_Wonder_Dog]

So you are going to specialise in Computers, Cars and washing machines?

[gbm]

So you are going to specialise in Computers, Cars and washing machines?

That not a bad idea, perhaps instead I should go into science - research cloning and then make 3 of me so I can do all 3

[S4B]

Oh My God 3 gbms??? Is the world ready for that? I think not

[Walter Sobchak]

Oh My God 3 gbms??? Is the world ready for that? I think not

For some reason my interweb browserator opened at the bottom of this page,, so that was the first thing I saw...

Thought it was computer jargon until I scrolled up.

Gert Big Megawatts per Second???

[gbm]

Just think - thats even longer that I would be able to be in here and the chat room!, isnt that just great news

[S4B]

And maybe one of you could go out and have a life too! even better news!