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LAN connection drops frequently

The LAN connection (Ethernet) between the FRITZ!Powerline device and individual or all of the devices connected to the FRITZ!Powerline device drops frequently. When the error occurs, one of the following messages may be displayed on the devices:

  • 'A network cable is unplugged.'
  • 'Network cable unplugged.'
  • 'You are currently not connected to any networks.'

Simply proceed as described below. After each measure, check whether the problem is solved.

1 Installing the latest software for the device

  1. Install the latest software version for the device or the latest driver for the computer's LAN network adapter.

    Note:Since Windows Update often does not offer the latest drivers, install the drivers from the manufacturer's website, for example from the Intel Download Center.

2 Disabling energy-saving functions for the network adapter

  1. If any energy-saving functions are enabled for the computer's LAN network adapter or the device, disable them for testing purposes.

    Note:In Windows, different power saving functions can be set for many network adapters under 'Properties > Power Management' in the Device Manager.

3 Connecting a device directly with FRITZ!Powerline

This step is only necessary if the device is connected with the FRITZ!Powerline by means of a hub/switch, another powerline device, a LAN/Wi-Fi converter, or other device instead of being connected directly to the FRITZ!Repeater:

  1. Connect the device directly to a LAN port on the FRITZ!Powerline device. If possible, use the network cable included with the FRITZ!Powerline.
  2. If the LAN connection to the FRITZ!Powerline device now remains stable, then there is a problem with the intermediary device or its cabling:
      1. Make sure that the intermediary devices function properly.
      2. Update the software / firmware of the intermediary devices.
      3. Use different network cables to connect the devices to the FRITZ!Powerline device's power adapter. Use the shortest possible high-quality network cables (CAT 5e or higher).

4 Testing a different cable

The network cable used to connect the device to the FRITZ!Powerline device may be too long, incorrectly wired, or defective:

  1. Use the shortest possible high-quality network cable to connect the device to the FRITZ!Powerline device, for example use the network cable included with the FRITZ!Powerline.

    Note:Any standard network cable CAT 5e or higher (STP, 1:1) with a maximum length of 100 m can be used to connect network devices to the FRITZ!Powerline.