How long do Netgear routers last?

Netgear Wi-FI routers are convenient when you want to connect multiple devices to the internet. How long do Netgear routers last? Read on to find out.

Netgear has been engineering routers for decades now. It is one of the biggest brands in the networking industry. The company takes the lead in providing some of the most innovated products with the least technology solutions for Wi-FI connectivity. Their routers deliver strong and reliable performance.

How long do Netgear routers last? If taken care of and configured well, your Netgear router can last you 4 to 5 years. Netgear routers strike a balance between software and hardware features, performance and value.  Unless your router is damaged by falling, liquids, electric failure or a power surge, it should serve you well for years.

Is it time to replace your Netgear router?

When do you know it’s time to replace your Netgear router? Watch out for some signs and symptoms for indicators that your Netgear router is broken or will no longer service you well. Some of these problems can be fixed temporarily, while others just can’t be fixed. You will know that it is time to get rid of your router when:

Your Netgear router suddenly stops

This is a sure signs that there is a major problem with your Netgear router. Once your router suddenly stops functioning, you should probably consider getting yourself a new one. This is when your Netgear router is no longer responsive when you press any buttons and the indicator lights do not illuminate to signify that it is working.  First, make sure you eliminate any possibilities that your router has accidental wire disconnection by checking the cables and connector wires.

Check for disconnection on cables that link your Netgear to the other devices, or a power source. Next, check whether the connector wires and cables that link to your devices are in top shape. Also, make sure the power sources are working correctly.  If not, it is safe to diagnose that your Netgear router is broken and needs repair or to be replaced.

You are experiencing slow internet speeds

Another common sign that your Netgear has problems and you may need to purchase a new router us slow internet connection. A sudden slow down in data transfer speeds happens when there is decreased bandwidth availability or high volumes of network traffic.

How will you know that you are experiencing slow internet speeds? This is usually diagnosed by longer buffering periods while streaming, or when its taking you longer to load frequently visited sites. A drop in internet speeds can be frustrating and in some cases can mean that your Netgear router is dying.

To diagnose the problem, try plugging in the computer directly into your modem and check whether you are experiencing the same issue. If the results remain the same, decreased bandwidth availability and network is likely your problem. If the speed goes back to normal, the problem is clearly within your Netgear. Either way, you will need to replace your router to avoid internet connection problems in the future.

Overheating

Netgear routers are made of quality materials and can withstand minor impacts and heat. However, overtime these impacts can be damaging. This means if you have been using your Netgear router for more than 4 years and it breaks down, it could be due to damage of its internal components due to overheating. When this happens, you are better of getting a new router than trying to repair damage that will persist with time.

Faulty indicator lights on the Netgear router

When your Netgear works properly, its indicator lights should blink or remain constantly lit. However, if there is no action on the indicator lights it could be a sign that the router is about to break down.  Perform basic troubleshooting like removing and reinserting cables or turning your router on and off to be certain.

Intermittent connectivity

Intermittent connectivity can be frustrating, especially while streaming HD videos. During this time, your network keeps dropping prompting the internet connection error on your screen. One minute the internet connection is good, and the next you cannot seem to load any video or audio. This is a sign that your Netgear router is dying and you need to replace it soon.

Why you should upgrade to the latest Netgear – Netgear Technology evolution

Netgear routers keep evolving at a speedy rate.  This means their newer devices are more complex, have better technology and capacity to handle much more. A modern household has an increasing number of connected devices and therefore increasing demand for greater bandwidth. You need a router that can meet those demands and more. Having a router that can utilize the latest technologies is a priority if you want to reduce signal strength problems and overcrowding.

Newer Netgear router models feature the ultra fast Wi-FI 6, which is the latest Wi-FI generation. It can deliver up to 4 times better than 802.11ac. With technologies like Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple-Access, the newest Netgear models can maximize the capability to connect to multiple devices simultaneously while reducing bandwidth congestion. Not to mention, most new generation laptops and phones have transitioned to Wi-FI 6, which means they take up more bandwidth and need stronger network connections. Transitioning to a newer Netgear router model provides your home network with boost in capacity, speed, performance and reliability.

Conclusion

Due to tech innovation and other factors, internet needs tend to change overtime. This means that what worked great for you’re a couple of years ago, may not be doing so well today.  You don’t have to keep asking yourself “should I get a new router” when you keep experiencing the problems listed in this article.  While Netgear routers tend to be durable, they are still susceptible to damage. Damaged routers can results to issues like slow performance and will experience complete breakdown over time.

FAQ

Do I need to always have the latest firmware on my Netgear router?

Yes. Having the latest firmware is beneficial. It helps increase the stability, performance and functionality of your Netgear router. The newest firmware will likely add new – improved features as well as correct issues on your router.

How long does a Netgear modem router last?

If taken care of well, a modem router can last you about the same time as a Netgear router, which is 4 – 5 years.