Maxis Wireless Broadband Internet troubleshooting

I've been using my Maxis Wireless Broadband for nearly two months now and I'm pleased to report that I'm quite satisfied with it's service at the moment. I subscribed to the Advanced package (640kbps / RM78 monthly) but I've never actually achieved that maximum speed mainly because my neighborhood doesn't have HSDPA or 3G yet. I rarely get disconnected although the connection could become really sloppy during rainy days or when the modem is connected too long (24 continuous hours or more). My first bill totaled at exactly RM78, no hidden charges or additional costs added. Don't know about next month but I expect the same amount from Maxis (or they'll have a really pissed blogger on PetalingStreet.org).

Connecting to the Internet have been hassle free for me so far. I just turn on the modem, plug in everything and I should be connected in less than 2 minutes. But last month I started using a network switch at home and I have to renew my IP addresses manually before I can connect to the Internet. Here's something you can try if you're having problem connecting. (I'm assuming you're using the ZTE MF600 modem and a Windows XP os).First of all make sure:

• All the cables (power, network) are connected properly. Use the provided network cable (CAT 5e) and nothing else. I've tried CAT 6 and they didn't work.
• The Power/Batt(ery), Data and RSSI lights on the modem are on. The modem usually takes a few moment to initialize and assign the IP addresses for your PC. The modem battery should last no more than 2 hours unplugged.
  
• Your antenna is tightened properly and is in an upright position and your modem is placed near a window.
• Nothing is blocking the modem or if it is placed near any electrical device which could cause interference. Uneven terrain or indoor setting could influence wireless reception and the service is not recommended to be used at premises higher than 5 floors.
• Your network card is working properly. Check for the LED lights near the network port.You could try connecting on another PC if it's faulty.
  
• The location you're connecting has at least GPRS reception to connect to the Internet.
  

How to renew the IP address.

Renewing the IP address is one way to fix your Internet connection if it suddenly fails to connect. When all your hardwares are working fine (modem, cables, power adapter) you should first check the connection status. This is done by typing 192.168.0.1 in the address bar of your browser (Mozilla Firefox, Safari or Internet Explorer). This will bring the modem's configuration page.


You should really leave everything on default and not change any of the settings. Click the Reset button in you're unsure. Check on the Connection Status to see whether you're already connected or not. If you're already connected that means there's nothing wrong with your modem and you just have to refresh your browser a few times and you should be online shortly.



If that didn't work, try repairing the network connection. Go to Control Panel > Network Connection > right click on Local Area Connection and select Repair. This step should be enough to renew your IP address but if it still fails you'll have to renew your IP manually using the Command Prompt.


Go to Start > Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt and type:

ipconfig /release

ipconfig /renew




For Linux users just open a Terminal window and type:

sudo dhclient -r

(enter root password)

sudo dhclient

After that refresh your browser and if everything goes well you should see this Maxis Broadband start page displayed on your screen.


If that still doesn't solve your problem I suggest you contact Maxis Broadband Customer Service at 1800 82 2000 (I've heard horror stories about them so good luck to you mate!)