A "traceroute" is a function which traces the path from one network to another. It can help you to diagnose the source of many problems. To be effective, the traceroute MUST be run during a time when you are experiencing the problem, from the Internet connection that is experiencing the problem and from the computer that is experiencing the problem. If the problem is no longer occurring, you will have to wait until the next time the problem occurs (if there is a next time) before running your trace route.

IF YOU USE WINDOWS:
In Windows 98 or ME, Go to "Start" > "Run". Type "command" and press the "Enter" key.
In Windows 2000 or XP, go to "Start" > "Run" and type "cmd" and press the "Enter" key.

This will bring up a Black Box (known as a 'command prompt" window.)

It will have a line that looks like this: C:\Documents and Settings\yourname> _with a cursor blinking next to the ">" symbol.

To run the traceroute type "tracert [hostname]". Where the hostname is: is the destination that you are running your connection check. For example: If you are trying to run a trace route to Yahoo.com, this is what you type:

tracert yahoo.com

All you need to do is replace yahoo.com with the site you are testing the connection to. This test will proceed, some up to a minute or more. It will generate a list of the connections along the way and some information about the speed of the steps along the way.

IF YOU USE A MACINTOSH:
If you have OS X, you can use the built-in network tools. Double-click the Hard Drive icon > Applications folder > Utilities folder > Network Utility program. Select the Traceroute tab and enter the hostname.

If you have an older Macintosh, you may need to acquire third party utility software. Go to http://www.tucows.com and do a search for "Trace" on "Macintosh". Programs like the 'DNS Expert Professional' will allow you to run a "trace route".

FOR BOTH SYSTEMS:
Please note that "[hostname]" should be replaced with whatever site you cannot connect to. If you have been instructed by our Tech Support to conduct this test, we will tell you what hostname or IP to test for. When sending information to Bummer Hosting, please open a Tech Support ticket.