This article explains how to check a network connection using the Ping command (Packet Internet Groper), a network administration utility that verifies the connectivity status between a source and a destination computer or device over an IP network. It also measures the time it takes to send and receive a response from the network.
Continue reading the fully detailed article or watch the following video:
Open the Terminal
Use the Ping Command
The ping command syntax is the same across MacOS, Linux, and Windows. Below are the steps to use the command:
- Open the Terminal.
- Type the command:
ping ip_address or ping hostname
For example, if your printer, cutter, cut controller, or fileserver has the IP address 10.10.10.87, you would enter:
ping 10.10.10.87 - Press Enter to start the ping process.
To stop the ping, press Control + C.
Info
It is advisable to run the ping command for a few minutes, especially if you suspect an erratic connection.
Interpretate Ping Results
Successful Ping
A correct ping will show no packet loss and a normal response time. Slight variations in response time are acceptable.
Info
A good ping response may occur even if there is a duplicate IP address (another device on the same network using the same IP). To test this, turn off the cutter or printer and see if you can still ping the IP address. If you can, another device is likely using the same IP.
Problematic Ping Results
100% Packet Loss:
- If you see a ping result showing 100% packet loss, check the following:
- Ensure the correct IP address is being used.
- Inspect the network cabling, switches, and router.
- If you see a ping result showing 100% packet loss, check the following:
Intermittent Packet Loss:
- If the ping starts out fine but then shows packet loss, check or replace the cabling, switches, and router.
- An example of this would be a ping that occasionally connects but then experiences severe packet loss.