When your internet becomes slow, how do you know if it’s your router or something else? No need to guess – check out these signs to tell if your router is bad.
A bad router doesn’t just lead to annoying interruptions – it can also have a significant impact on your daily life. A faulty router can slow down your internet, cause frequent dropped connections, and create security risks by failing to provide critical firmware updates. Now that all of our favorite devices rely on stable internet connections, a poorly functioning router can be more than just an inconvenience.
If your router isn’t doing its job, you’re not getting the speeds and reliability you’re paying your internet service provider for. Even worse, if the problem goes unaddressed, you might waste hours troubleshooting other devices, assuming they’re at fault when the router is actually to blame. Understanding the signs of a failing router can help you pinpoint issues early and take the right steps to fix them.
There are several telltale signs that your router – as opposed to, say, your TV or your phone – is responsible for slow internet, spotty calls, or media that never stops buffering.
If your once-speedy internet has become sluggish, your router could be the culprit. While slow internet speeds can also be caused by factors like ISP issues, outdated devices, or network congestion, a deteriorating router may ultimately be responsible if you experience a sudden drop in performance. Routers wear out over time due to constant use, dust buildup, and outdated technology.
To check if the router is the issue, use an internet speed test tool like Ookla Speedtest or Fast.com. Test your speeds while connecting a laptop or wireless device, like your phone, to your router or home network. Then, try connecting the same device to another network, like the network of your apartment building or favorite coffee shop. If your device receives faster speeds from one network instead of another, the problem isn’t the device; it may be the router you rely on at home, instead. Another, the problem isn’t the device; it may be the router you rely on at home, instead.
One of the most frustrating signs of a bad router is frequent connection drops. You might notice that your WiFi disconnects randomly, even when you’re close to the router. This could happen during video calls, streaming sessions, or while simply browsing the web.
Dropped connections often occur when a router’s hardware or software is failing. Without getting too technical, routers rely on a variety of internal components to maintain a stable connection between devices and the internet. If these components degrade, the router can’t keep up, causing frequent disconnections.
While it’s normal for routers to generate some heat, excessive heat is a red flag. If your router feels hot to the touch, it may be overheating, which can cause performance issues or even permanent damage. Overheating can occur when the router is placed in a poorly ventilated area, covered by objects, or when its internal fans stop working.
Try moving your router to a cooler, well-ventilated space. If overheating persists, the router may have internal hardware damage and need to be replaced.
A router rebooting itself is another telltale sign of trouble. While routers sometimes need a manual reset to refresh their connection, frequent, unprompted reboots usually indicate a deeper issue. This behavior can stem from power supply issues, overheating, or corrupted firmware.
If your router reboots itself more than once or twice a day, it’s likely time to replace it. Frequent reboots can disrupt your internet usage and make it impossible to maintain a reliable connection.
Keeping your router’s firmware up to date is crucial for security and performance. Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix bugs, improve functionality, and protect against security threats. If your router won’t accept or apply updates, it may be outdated or malfunctioning.
Outdated routers often lack support for the latest internet protocols and security standards, leaving your WiFi network vulnerable to cyberattacks. If you can’t update your router or if it hasn’t received updates in years, it’s a good idea to upgrade to a newer model.
Have you noticed that your phone, laptop, or smart devices struggle to connect to your router? This can happen when a router’s wireless signal weakens or fails entirely. Sometimes, older routers can’t handle the growing number of connected devices in modern homes, leading to poor performance or connection failures.
If moving closer to the router doesn’t resolve the issue or if only a few devices can connect at once, your router may be unable to support your family’s connectivity needs.
A bad router might display other signs of wear and tear that indicate it needs to be replaced. For example, if your router’s lights regularly go red, if it makes odd sounds like it’s “thinking,” or if it doesn’t respond to button presses, take those signs seriously and start looking for a new one.
If you’ve determined that your router is bad, it’s time to shop for a replacement. Modern routers come with features that improve speed, range, and reliability compared to older models, so upgrading could easily be a net benefit for your household. Here are a few tips for choosing the right router:
Investing in a high-quality router ensures a smooth internet experience, whether you’re working, streaming, or gaming. Plus, a new router can also save you from the frustration of slow speeds and dropped connections caused by a failing device. All in all, it’s one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your household’s network.
You don’t always have to go looking for a new router by yourself. When you switch to a new internet service provider, most provide a router that fits your needs right out of the box – that’s just one reason why it’s a good idea to switch to Glo.
We bring our high-speed fiber internet to your entire home, wall to wall, through a network of modern routers and boosters, depending on what exactly your household requires. And if your router ever has an issue? Our friendly technicians are just a call away. Get in touch with us today to learn more about why switching to Glo could be the perfect solution to your internet needs.