Hi ethenet question?

Hi, my query is basically, when o connect my Ethernet cable in to the local area network socket, it usually requires me quit a few attempts before it connects and the local area network starts to work, i have tried a new cable to, and same thing happens with it, my Ethernet light does come on eventually on my (big pond router 2071-a 2 wire) but i cant understand why i have to keep plugging and unplugging cable in the LAN port on my laptop before it works?,some guidance if possible on this matter would be greatly appreciated