5 signs your router is failing

Although a router should give you years of hassle-free internet connectivity, it will definitely not last forever. Here are some signs to show that your router is failing.

We have all experienced it; one minute you are happily streaming your favorite show on Netflix, then suddenly, you are seated there looking at the dreaded buffering icon for what seems like hours on end. The truth is that they do not make things like they used to anymore.

Whether your internet router is a combination router with built-in wireless access or a standalone router, it is bound to fail as it ages. Luckily, signs like dropped or slow connections, weak signal, or if your devices refuse to connect, among many others, will indicate a failing router. Let us look further into these signs and find out how we can fix a failing router before you decide to replace it.

5 signs your router is failing

Dropped or slow connections

Failing routers often experience a slowed down or dropped internet connectivity, which is extremely frustrating, especially when you are trying to watch Netflix, play an online game, or video call your friends. In this case, you may experience a few days when the connection is highly unstable, but once you cycle the power on your router, the connection seems to stabilize for a few hours or even a few days.

The slow data transfer speeds from your router may result from decreased bandwidth availability, immense network traffic, or simply due to the failing router. Ascertain the problem by opening the router’s online configuration screen and reset it to its default factory settings. Similarly, check whether third-party devices are overcrowding your device and reset your password. It is also advisable to look for firmware updates from the manufacturer’s site and install any new ones.

If none of these quick fixes work, switch the router to a new electrical connection. It may simply be a power glitch that is zapping your router on and off. Move it to a new location with minimal interference or load the configuration screen and adjust the channel used for your wireless signal to battle interference

Weak signal

Another common sign that your router is failing is when you begin to notice that your wireless coverage is not what it used to be. In the beginning, your router would provide an excellent and fast wireless signal throughout your home or office, but now you get poor or weak signal strength even when near the router.

You can fix this by checking your connections or using a different Ethernet cable or a different computer. It could mean that it is your system that is fussy and not your router. If possible, unplug the router from its electrical outlet and modem. Cycle the power and wait for a few minutes before plugging in the router back into the modem and then back into the electrical outlet.

Your device does not connect

There is nothing as frustrating than trying to read an important email, but there is no connection, yet the router is on, and all of its lights are regularly working. This could mean that the router is experiencing a catastrophic failure or that the connection between your device and router is not secure.

Try to connect another device to the router, and if it works properly and has an excellent signal, the problem could be your device. Check the Ethernet cable or port that your device is using to connect to the router. If you are connected wirelessly, try using an Ethernet cable. If nothing happens, try switching off the router for a few minutes for reconfiguration and then back on. Keep in mind that this could fix the problem, but only temporarily as the router could lock up again.

Non-responsiveness

If all your cables and electrical wires on your router are properly inserted and secured, but still it refuses to respond and provide a stable and fast internet signal, your router is failing and may need a replacement or repair. It could be experiencing an internal issue that can only be fixed by a professional, or it could be an issue with your surge protector or power outlet. Plug the router into another power source to determine whether it is still unresponsive. If it is, you may need to start thinking about investing in another one.

Indicator lights

When a router is working correctly, you will notice that its data transfer indicator lights remain lit continuously or blink intermittently. If you see that your router’s lights are off, but you are still connected to the device, this is an early sign that your router is failing and is about to stop functioning. The indicator lights on your router should always blink, even when it does not provide connectivity to any of the connected devices.

You may also connect to all the ports of your router, but no light indicates your connection, but all its lights seem to be on normally to show it is working correctly. When this happens, unplug the router and wait for thirty minutes before plugging it back to its power source. You may also try to reset the router by pressing and holding the button responsible for resetting it to its default factory settings for about four to seven seconds. It is also vital to ensure that the router is not overheating by checking the room’s ventilation.

Similarly, you can unplug and reconnect your Ethernet cables and use any spares to test whether you can attain a stable connection between your DSL or cable modem and your router. You can also check your router’s online configuration screen and update its firmware to the latest version as supplied by the manufacturer. Remove any non-networking devices, like USB devices and printers, attached to the router and reset it.

Conclusion

Routers are relatively durable devices, but like any other piece of electronic equipment, they are subject to breakdowns or poorer connections over time. There are many quick fixes that you can apply to a failing router, including unplugging the device, resetting it, restarting it, or in drastic occasions, resetting the router back to its default factory settings. However, if all the troubleshooting methods do not bring forth favorable results, it could mean it is time to get a new router. Replacing an old router ensures better functionality and high performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know my Wi-Fi card is failing?

If you do not see your Wi-Fi card in the Network Adapters tab on your Device Manager list, it is a sign that your card may have corrupted or faulty drivers.

Can routers wear out?

One of the most common problems that cause a router to wear out is heat stress. Large amounts of heat from an overworked router can damage its internal components and wires.