Internet Problems
Internet Problems
I bought a Crossblade Ranger roughly two weeks back, and everything seems fine except for one issue... It doesn’t connect to the internet. Here’s what I understand: I’m using an ASUS PCE-AC68 adapter to link up. If the built-in Intel NIC is turned on, I can join the network but can’t use anything online. On the other hand, when the NIC is off, I can connect and browse with some trouble. When I force close a browser tab, the address bar clears completely. If I type a new URL, it usually works. My NAS (WD My Book World) only stays connected for about five minutes before dropping off, yet the router still registers it. This happened after I swapped the motherboard, CPU, and RAM. Previously, I had a Sabertooth 990FX and everything functioned perfectly. I’m worried something with Windows might not have installed properly—perhaps a .NET framework. All games seem to work without problems, but anything relying on Windows Explorer doesn’t. I’ve installed the latest drivers (as of 9/12/2014), but I noticed two updates on ASUS’s site before posting this thread, so I’ll try them soon. Any suggestions would be appreciated. --- Edit: It looks like this might be linked to AI Suite III’s built-in traffic monitor. I’ve been checking it, and it seems it was left on by default since I never changed it. It could be that certain packets were dropped because web browsing was given lower priority compared to other tasks. For instance, my Battle.net launcher is marked as a “game” in the profiles and launches automatically at startup, so it doesn’t matter if web browsing is deprioritized.
When fixing issues, it helps to keep things simple. For instance: 1- Use the built-in Windows Wireless manager (other options often cause problems). 2- Disable any software handling network traffic. 3- Turn off internet security programs. 4- Exclude firewall tools alongside the built-in one. Also consider a direct wired connection from the modem to Ethernet, to eliminate software or router problems.
I reviewed the content I shared earlier, and it appears the PCE-AC68 adapter lacks management software. It offers some utility, but it isn't used for network connections—just for features like beam shaping. Point 2 will be addressed later if internet security software affects your traffic. Windows' native firewall performs adequately when combined with IE and MSE/Windows Defender, making it sufficient for most users. I'm puzzled by the suggestion to run a wired connection; it's strictly wireless-only.
Noticing something similar before, I think the issue might relate to ASUS AI Suite's traffic monitor. I updated all relevant programs (the two updates pertained to AI Suite III and Game First III, not the drivers). Once done, performance improved significantly—most websites loaded without requiring refreshes. I opened Game First III and turned it off; everything returned to normal almost immediately.
I also want to inform others that Game First II functioned as expected, unlike WoW which seemed less responsive. If you're mainly playing games and don't use other services, Game First remains a valuable tool. Keep an eye on future updates.
I realize I came across as tough, but I meant well. I just prefer wireless options over cables—though I understand you might have a different preference.
My guidance is to communicate broadly. Should we focus on resolving issues rather than discovering a fix?
It turned out to be ASUS Game First Software. I switched it off, and all my internet issues disappeared.