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Your home router might benefit from a reboot if you notice:
- Slow or inconsistent internet speeds.
- Dropped Wi‑Fi connections.
- Devices failing to connect.
- Overheating or strange behavior like flashing lights on your router.
If you are rebooting because you are experiencing issues, first make sure the router, modem power cords, and Ethernet cables are still securely connected, then make a note of any problems you are experiencing (slow speed, dropped connections, devices not connecting) so you can tell if the reboot helps.
You can also reboot monthly or every few months. A reboot clears memory leaks, refreshes network sessions, and can resolve minor firmware hiccups. Rebooting does not replace firmware updates or security configuration.
Reboot Your Router
- First, save your work. Remember, the internet will be temporarily unavailable.
- Run a quick network speed test then run another test after your router reboot to see if there is improvement.
- Unplug your router's power, wait a minute or two, plug it back in, then give it a little time to reset.
After Rebooting Your Router
After rebooting your router, it’s a good idea to check a few things to make sure everything is working properly:
- Verify that the indicator lights on your router are normal (no warning or error lights).
- Run a new network speed test to see if it has improved from the previous test. This also doubles as your verification that the router has successfully reconnected to your internet service provider.
- Check the Wi‑Fi connection on a few other important devices (like your mobile device) to make sure they are reconnecting correctly.
- Ensure your Wi‑Fi password, security settings, and any custom configurations (like parental controls or guest networks) are still in place.
Checking these items helps confirm that the reboot was successful and that your home network is running smoothly again.
If you are using Wi-Fi and are still experiencing speed or connectivity issues, try connecting your computer to your router with its ethernet cable.
Contact the IT Service Desk for additional help!