Error 678 is always seen when you are trying to connect to the internet. In some users the error is displayed after installation of windows service packs two and three. If you receive the message in the normal course of the day while you are using the computer without any problems, then it might be a malware infection. We shall be looking into the different reasons which bring forth this error message. Not only are the reasons stated, but also suitable remedial measures have also been listed in the following passages.

Once you get the message verify whether the networking cables are already connected to the PC. Some are absent minded and this tip is for those. Once the cables are connected verify whether the modem is in working condition. The case is the same whether you are using an internal dial up modem or an external broadband modem. Ensure that the modem drivers are free from corruption. The next two reasons are primarily caused by the running of malware in the PC on the background. Viruses and Trojans are known to act on the files which are desired for the normal functioning of the networking components and destroy it. They may also interfere with the TCP/IP winsock and will lead to the corruption of it too. Also ensure that the connection is allowed to connect freely and that there are no third part firewall solutions which is effectively blocking the connection.

Let’s look into the various causes of error 678 which were outlined in the earlier passage. The first cause can be easily rectified by connecting the appropriate cabling to the network interface card (NIC). Check with your ISP that the connectivity is good and that there are no backend problems with their network. This is the remedy for the second problem. When the service is down, do not try troubleshooting. Contact the ISP and ensure that the trouble is on their part and then continue with the rest of the troubleshooting. Once you find that the connection is working, then try un-installing and re-installing the modem drivers. Now modem drivers are only required when you are connecting using an internal dial up modem or a modem which supports USB connectivity. If you are connecting to the modem using the Ethernet cable, then no drivers come into place.

Moving to the next causes we see that malware can cause such errors. Always invest on good antivirus solutions so as too keep such malware at bay. An effective program which kills spyware must also be installed on the computer. Removing the malware is just the first part, but what if they have corrupted the winsock? Repairing winsock is easy. On the run prompt just type netsh winsock reset. A black window will appear and disappear, just restart the PC and the winsock should be reinstalled. Most of the error 678 is caused by the error in the winsock only. The last cause can also be easily remedied by properly configuring the third part firewall software program.

Computers have made our lives far simpler with everything just a click away in life, yet if your computer is not functioning properly then troubleshooting is one of the most painful tasks. Troubleshooting a computer is like a detective’s job, while you finding out the exact problem is the hardest challenge, finding a solution for it fixing is not easy. Here are some tips as to major computer troubleshooting problems.

Starting from setting up a computer, hardware issues, software issues, startup problems, network issues, interfacing with other devices, troubleshooting of a computer could be for any of these things. Here are some tips as to how to go about these things.

The basic troubleshooting is when you have bought a new computer and unable to set it up properly. Make sure that all the cables are connected properly without any loose contact and of course in the right port. Refer to your hardware guide which you got with your computer as to know how to connect your computer. More than often, you will have a support from your computer manufacturer at the beginning, so the best thing to do would be to call for help.

Hardware troubleshooting is the hardest because finding out exactly which part is not working is the tricky part. If your RAM or Hard Drive or processor is not working, then you won’t be able to switch on your computer itself. Try looking at the BIOS for configuring these devices properly. This could happen if you have upgraded to new BIOS version and forgot to save the previous configuration. If the malfunction is in one of the other devices like key board, mouse, printer, speakers or USB then all you have to do is replace the corresponding hardware parts. If it is still not working, then check for the presence of the device drivers. Now these are the ones which tell your computer about the presence and function of the hardware. So, if there is no device driver, then you computer will not recognize the hardware. While most of the operating systems will have pre installed essential device drivers, if not check with the hardware manufacturer to get the compatible driver for your hardware. This is how you can even install a new hardware or interface your computer with other devices.

The software troubleshooting is the easiest one to fix. This is a classic case when one of the essential files which is required for the programs functioning is missing. The solution is to replace that file. While this can be done either by identifying the missing file and getting a copy of it from internet and replace it or by just re installing the program. While the second option is easier, it might lead to some data loss. So, it is always advised to take a back up of your data before installing any program. If the problem is due to virus attack, then the solution would be to restore your OS. This might lead in data loss, so be prepared for this with a back up.

If none of the above solutions helped, then I would suggest you to call some professional computer repair service.