Network Troubleshooting

When troubleshooting a network problem, it is important to remember that most issues can be traced back to the 'physical' layer. So if you cannot ping an Ethernet switch, for example, the first step towards solving the problem is to physically pick up the switch and slam it up against the wall while yelling "HEY! I'm TALKING to you, you stupid piece of crap!" This lets the switch know that you are not at all fucking around.