DSL Archives - Rick's Daily Tips

Q&A: How can I connect my PC directly to a modem that’s in another room?

Posted on January 17, 2025

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Question from David: Hi, Rick. I hope you can give me some advice about a networking issue.

My cable modem is located in my living room but my computer is in the bedroom. I’d like your recommendation on the best way to connect them.

I have decided that I’d rather not use Wi-Fi, so is there any way to connect my computer to the modem without using a router? [Read more…]

Q&A: Why can’t I get Netflix to stream in 4K?

Posted on August 14, 2020

Question from Perry: I recently bought a high-end Windows PC from Best Buy.

Here’s a link to it so you can check the specs.

I asked the salesman what I would need in order to watch Netflix in 4K with that machine and he said a broadband Internet connection and some type of 4K compatible streaming device.

I told him I had a DSL connection and he said that’s fine. He then recommended that I buy a Chromecast Ultra, so I did.

He told me my new computer and the Chromecast Ultra would let me watch Netflix in 4K if I used the Edge browser.

However, no matter what I try I can never get Netflix to stream at anything faster than 1080p.

I went back to Best Buy and asked what else I need to do (or buy) to get Netflix in 4K and three different people insisted that I have everything I need.

Do you have any idea what could be the problem?

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]

Q&A: Why is my FAX machine taking down my Internet connection?

Posted on December 19, 2014

Question from Roger: Rick, I’ve had DSL through Verizon for 3 years with no problems whatsoever till 3 days ago when I installed a new FAX machine. Whenever the FAX machine is connected to the phone line my Internet stops working until I unplug it.

Before I bought this FAX machine I’d never had one connected to my phone line before. I’d always just used eFax. It’s hard to believe that one piece of equipment can stop the Internet connection dead in its tracks, but it does.

Do you know what I need to do to fix this problem? It’s a pain having to stop using the Internet and plug in the FAX machine every time I need to use it (which is several times a day).

Rick’s answer: [Read more…]