Wi-Fi router plays one of the most crucial roles when creating and sending out Wi-Fi signal across the home. Without having a seamless router, your devices such as your tablet, smartphone, or PC won't be connected to the wireless network setup. Although, a router lasts several years, how do you know that you should replace it?
In this modern world, a bad router not only hinders your internet connection but also hampers your daily productivity. Since most of our important work relies on an ultra-fast internet connection, a bad router can spoil everything. Although, all the modern routers now offer faster internet speeds than before, especially if you use an ethernet cable. Still, even when you have a top-tier router, it can slow down eventually. An upgrade to your router not only provides you with a smooth online browsing experience but also offers the latest security. There are telltale signs that show that you may need a router replacement.
Keep on reading this article to discover the signs that tell you that you need a router replacement. We will discuss everything in detail and help you make the best decision.
Your router manages all your internet connections. Without having it functioning optimally, you can't access the internet at its best. When your router gets old and outdated, it can slow down your connection, disrupt the internet speed, and even leave your network setup vulnerable to many security risks. There are times when people's wireless network setup gets hacked due to outdated firmware and security measures. This is why it's important to replace your router whenever it's needed.
There are a few signs that tell you that you need a router replacement. For example, if your router is over 5 years old, or you're upgrading your internet plan that can't be supported by your older router, or your router is running hot every time you use it. Let's discuss these signs in detail,
Finding out whether you need a new router or it's just your internet service provider that's betraying you is not a doodle. It takes a bit of knowledge and understanding to make the best decision and achieve a flawless internet connection. Nevertheless, there are internet speed testing tools out there to help you provide more information. So, if you're wondering whether you need a router replacement, here are a few signs you should look at,
1. Slow Internet Speed
The easiest way to tell whether you need a new router is by noticing a sluggish internet connection. If you're experiencing buffering periods every time you're streaming Netflix, watching videos, listening to music, or playing high-end games, then the problem could be related to your router. However, there are a lot of other reasons that can affect internet speed negatively. So, you have to check whether the problem comes from your router or not.
For this, you can plug the router directly into the computer and check if the problem exists. If it does then the problem could be that you have increased your network traffic but reduced the bandwidth availability. But, if your router resumes its normal speed while it's connected directly, then there are some issues with it and you need a replacement.
2. If It Needs Constant Rebooting
Well, how many times a day do you need to reboot your router? Just because it cuts you out in the middle of an internet activity! Generally, a reboot may be needed once in a while. Your router should work perfectly without a reboot every day if it remains at its optimal performance. However, if you need to constantly reboot it because it intervenes with your connection, then there might be some issues with it. Before replacing it consider checking the device's manual and see if all the lights are blinking properly. If not, then you surely need a new router.
3. An Intermittent Connection
Nothing could be more frustrating than having an intermittent connection. An intermittent connection means your connection will be interrupted over a period of time. For example, if you experience a fast internet speed at the moment, in the next minute you will see ‘no internet connection”. This can be a major problem especially if you're conducting critical tasks using the internet. The problem here occurs due to poor area coverage of your router. You can consider checking whether there are any obstructions that are blocking your wi-fi signal. If not, then it's time you buy a new device.
4. Your Router Is Old
Typically, a router should be replaced every five years to maintain its optimal performance. It's because technology is evolving every day. And ISPs are offering higher internet speeds to users while integrating modern technologies and equipment. Therefore, your router should be capable enough to handle the high-end speed offered by your ISP. But, due to outdated technology, some operations can be hindered. This is the reason why it's important to upgrade your router every five years to enjoy an uninterrupted connection.
5. A Complete Breakdown
The most prominent sign that a router is failing is the time when it completely stops functioning. When a complete breakdown occurs, your router will no longer respond to anything you do. Regardless of the buttons, you press, or the settings you modify, nothing can bring it back to life when it shuts down completely. This is a prominent sign that you need a new one. A complete breakdown may not only occur due to aging issues of your router but also due to a faulty mechanism. Therefore, even if you have a new router, it's susceptible to complete breakdown especially if it's not taken care of properly. However, make sure you check it properly before throwing it out.
6. Heating Issues
A router undoubtedly does a lot of work for your network to function properly. However, it's built in a certain way that it won't heat up much even when it's conducting high-end activities if you have an ultra-fast router. It's normal if it gets a little warm while working. It happens with every router. But, overheating is a sign that tells you that you need a router replacement. Generally, overheating is caused due to poor ventilation.
Since routers don't have an active cooling mechanism, they can start to overheat when they malfunctions. Overheating will frequently break down an older router. Therefore, if your router is aging beyond five years and it has started to overheat, then consider buying a new one to avoid any major damage.
These are the signs that indicate that you need a router replacement. Now, you don't have to ask yourself whether you need a new router or not. You can check these above-mentioned signs and decide on your own. If you have a new router and you're still noticing any of these signs we've listed, then probably you have a faulty router. In this case, contact us for further assistance at the earliest to avoid any major damages in the future. However, before purchasing a new router, consider troubleshooting it. There are some quick and easy ways to fix a router and improve its speed. In the end, if nothing helps, then bring a new one for your home.
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