Ahhh great question - I might even mention this one on the radio if that is OK with you!
There are two basic things that happen that can make this one of the best fixes for a broken internet connection. It sounds simple to do - but it works for 90% of the problems!
1) It resets the hardware at your end. Computers, Microwaves - and YOUR Adsl (broadband) modem all have Memory (RAM/ROM/EPROM/Flash etc..) and over time this can get a little screwed up. Basically, think of it getting a little scrambled occasionally - but if it runs 24/7 this can add up over time. A restart clears all the junk, and sets up a fresh beginning for the device.
Lots of devices (especially computers) have "error checking" or "self fixing" systems - but strangely
they can only run during startup. This means the act of TOTO (Turn Off, Turn On) will allow the blessed little thing to fix itself up.
2) In the case of your internet connection - turning your modem off, then waiting for for about 10 minutes before you turn it back on has an added effect. In many cases this will allow the "geek-box" driving your internet at your ISP's (Internet Service Provider) end to reset your connection. If you just turn it off and then straight back on - it kind of "remembers" the old settings. Leaving it off for a while allows it to reset the systems and give you a fresh start on the internet.
Great question - hope it helps
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