Are you wondering whether or not to replace your Linksys router? When buying gadgets, we rarely think about the next time they will need replacing, especially when they are not commodities that can go bad. So, how long should you expect your Linksys router to last?
When you have a commodity that is made purely of plastic and that has no moving parts, you would not expect it to go bad, or to malfunction too quickly. However, every item has a defined length of time during which it functions at its optimum. Linksys routers operate on the same basis, and even though you cannot expect them to go bad, they only have as long as they can work before malfunctioning or needing replacement. So, how long should you expect your Linksys router to last? You can expect your Linksys router to last at least a decade, so long as you do not subject it to physical wear and tear, and as long as you use it as you should.
An important factor to have in mind is that your router will probably need replacing long before it experiences physical wear and tear that calls for another router. So, what should you do to make sure that your router stays functional for a long time?
How to care for your router to make it last long
Install it away from heat sources
Electric devices, routers included, tend to malfunction when they are subjected to heat, and this is why they should be installed in areas where they do not encounter lots of the same. Have your router installed far from such devices as TV sets or video players as these tend to get hot when they work over long periods of time. Also, do not install the router in an environment that experiences direct sunlight, particularly during overly hot seasons.
Minimize frequency interference where possible
When installing your router, try as best as possible to have it away from devices that also transmit radio frequencies. If, for instance, you live in a large apartment complex where there are many routers installed close to one another, you may experience constant interruptions in your internet connections. If this becomes a rampant problem, go on and shift transmission from the 2.4 GHz band to the 5 GHz band to keep your router from malfunctioning. Also, try as best as you can to use Bluetooth devices away from the router.
Enhance device security often
When you can, change your router’s SSID and password often as this ensures you maintain its security. Make sure that your password has an assortment of characters that range from uppercase to lower case letters, various punctuation marks and even numbers, so that it is hard for strangers to guess.
Update router software constantly
To make sure that your router works efficiently, you need to constantly update its software. A firmware update makes sure that the device is well equipped to handle all sorts of tasks without straining, allowing it to last a long time without malfunctioning.
Reset the router every once in a while
Resetting your router once or twice a year gives it a ‘fresh start’ since you rid it of all personalized settings, and it restores the factory settings with which it came. With a reset, you allow the router to resume its optimum functionality which translates to longer ‘life’.
Dust your router often
Seeing as a router is a primarily stationary item, it is likely to collect dust over time. Dust build-up may cause you router to overheat, causing a malfunction over time. When dusting, be sure to unplug the router from the power source to avoid any damage.
At this point, it is important to note that your router, no matter how well you care for it, will need replacement due to aspects you cannot change. So, how can you tell when your router needs replacing?
How to tell that your router needs replacement
When you can no longer update some of its firmware
For a router to function, it comes with certain firmware that constantly needs updating for proper functioning. At some point, however, you can expect your router to be outdone by technology, so that it stops being compatible with certain updates. If, for instance, your router seizes to be compatible with certain Wi-Fi standards, you need to replace it with one that is up to date. In current seasons, persons who use Wi-Fi 4 routers are having to replace them with Wi-Fi 5 and Wi-Fi 6 routers for better functioning.
When it keeps dropping connection
When you have tried as best you can to care for your router, including resetting it and updating its firmware, and it keeps dropping connection, it is probably time to replace it. This could be a major indicator that it is no longer compatible with current Wi-Fi standards, and that it needs to be replaced with another router.
When it does not connect to the internet at all
When your router does not connect to the internet at all, it could be an indicator of outdated firmware, or that there is some form of damage that causes it to malfunction. Have a technician take a look at it, and when they are certain that it is not a problem they can fix, you should start considering replacing your router with another one.
When it becomes overly slow
No one wants slow internet speeds, and when you are certain that your router cannot match up to the bundle you pay for from your ISP, it is definitely time to replace it with a faster and more efficient router.
Factors that may cause your router to malfunction and possible solutions
Factor |
Recommended solutions |
Proximity to heat source |
Install router in a constantly cool place away from direct sunlight |
Frequency interference |
Install router away from devices that interfere with signal
Change channel from 2.4GHz to 5Ghz band |
Outdated firmware |
Update router firmware whenever updates are available |
Failure to reset |
Reset your router once or twice a year |
Excess dust |
Dust your router often |
Conclusion
While it is impossible for your router to last a lifetime, it is possible to stretch out how long it lasts by care and maintenance practices. It does help, however, to recognize when your router calls for replacement as this allows you to upgrade and experience excellent internet transmission with your new Linksys router.
FAQs
Can replacing router components increase productivity?
Yes it can, but replacing components may not improve functionality where firmware is concerned.
Should I replace my router every time Wi-Fi standards change?
Before rushing to replace the router, make sure that you can upgrade the standards on the router.