Do I need a new router, or is the problem my modem or my internet provider?
Nine times out of ten, if you’re constantly restarting your router to get the internet working, the router is the culprit. But don’t go swapping boxes just yet, because your modem or your internet provider could definitely be throwing a wrench in the works.
Quick things to check first
- Unplug both your modem and your router from the power outlet, wait a full two minutes, and plug the modem in first. Wait for its lights to turn solid, then plug your router back in.
- Check the age of your equipment. If your router or modem is over five years old, it’s basically running on borrowed time and likely can’t handle modern internet speeds anyway.
- See if your devices drop the Wi-Fi signal completely but still show a solid connection when you plug a computer directly into the modem with an Ethernet cable. If a wired connection works fine, your router is bad.
- Check your equipment for firmware updates through the manufacturer’s app or website. If your router is so old that it no longer receives updates, it’s a major security risk and needs to be replaced.
If that didn’t fix it
- Bypass the router entirely by plugging a computer directly into the modem with an Ethernet cable and rebooting the modem. If the internet still drops or won’t load pages, you’re dealing with a modem or internet provider issue, not a router issue.
- Use the free Speedtest.net app while connected directly to the modem to see if you’re actually getting the internet speeds you pay your provider for. If the speed is way lower than your plan, your modem might be dying or your provider is having local outages.
- Log into your router’s admin panel using its web address (usually printed on a sticker on the bottom of the unit) and check the attached devices list. If you see random devices you don’t recognize eating up your bandwidth, someone nearby might be stealing your Wi-Fi and slowing your network down.
- WARNING: If you decide to factory reset your router to see if that fixes the software glitches, be warned that this will completely wipe out your custom Wi-Fi name, password, and any special settings. You will have to set up your whole home network from scratch and reconnect every single device.
When to call a pro
Call your internet provider first if the “Online” or “US/DS” light on your modem is blinking and never turns solid, or if your direct-to-modem speed test shows you’re getting less than half the speed you pay for. Call a local tech pro if you buy a brand new modem and router, get them activated, and your internet still randomly drops out, as you might have bad wiring inside your walls that needs physical repair.
Pro tip
Buying your own modem and router instead of renting your internet provider’s combined gateway box will save you a ton of money on monthly equipment fees and usually give you much better performance. Keep your new router elevated in the open, away from thick brick walls and microwave ovens, to give your house the best possible signal coverage.
Sources
- Do I need to replace my router or my cable modem?
- Is it worth buying new modem and router, or sticking with isp provided one?
- My ISP provides me with a Wi-Fi modem/router. Can I just buy a new one …
- How to determine if you’re dealing with an ISP, a router or a modem issue
- 7 Signs You Need a New Router