This article should explain how to restart WiFi router and improve the Internet connection in simple steps. Restarting the router might help it reboot and improve the slowed-down performance and wireless issues.
Unplug both your Internet modem and router from the power, let them stay off for 20 to 30 seconds, plug the modem back to power, wait for one or two more minutes until you plug back the router, and finally, let all lights on the router come back and test the WiFi connection and speed. Simple as that.
Plugging off and back on is good, especially for often-used devices like the WiFi router. It might seem funny because we do this when we try to fix something on our own, but in this case, it really works. The modem and router need a break sometimes, and it is good to restart these devices over time to prevent issues with WiFi connection and speed.
How to Restart WiFi Router Step-By-Step
Like the computers, the routers have a restart option that refreshes their settings and data and eliminates the issues that slow down the connection. The computers have a special button, while the routers have no button for restarting, and you have to do it another way.
Do not mess up the “Restart” and “Reset” terminology because it is not the same thing, especially with the WiFi routers. The routers have a “Reset” button, but that is not what we need in this case.
Restarting the router is a kind of refresh to its data, while resetting the router erases the changes and returns the router to default settings. So, the restart process goes like this:
- Unplug your Internet modem and WiFi router from the power output.
- Let them “rest” for about 20 seconds.
- Plug the modem back into the power output and wait until its indicators turn on (60 sec).
- Plug the WiFi router back on and leave it for another minute or two until it reboots and turns all the indicators on.
- Connect to the WiFi network and test the speed and steadiness.
You can also test the Internet connection using a computer and Ethernet cable.
Why do we have to wait between the power cycles?
Because patience can solve so many problems.
This is true because most of us have no patience regarding WiFi Internet connection.
So, when unplugging the router and modem, we need to wait until the devices completely reset or drain the entire power before turning it back on. The time we wait is the time the router and modem need until they refresh their memory and settings so that they can work better after.
The power cycles usually take 20 to 30 seconds because it is the required time until the device receives the message that there is no power. If we plug the devices into the power output immediately, they will not reboot or show improvements in the connection.
Read more: How to Restart Modem and Router
What does the router restart fix?
The restart process might help your router to eliminate the unnecessary data that is stored in its memory and leave more space for new information. More memory means a better signal and a steadier and faster WiFi connection.
Clears the memory
The router has memory and storage that saves information and data, the same as the computer. Over time, its memory might get full and block some functions that show connection issues and slow WiFi signals.
The restart process gives the router a break since it works 24/7. You might not know, but the routers work much harder than any other network device, which is why they need to be restarted sometimes.
A router reboot cleans up the memory and leaves space for new information. The router’s memory might impact the network speed.
Established a better wireless connection
The router might also have a problem with the network connection. If this issue occurs, the router might lose steady Internet connection maintenance.
When restarting the router, its system scans for available WiFi channels and selects the one with the clearest and fastest Internet connection. This might give you a much better Internet connection. Whenever you reboot your router, it searches for a connection that is not overcrowded and gives you excellent speed and steadiness.
The right time to restart the WiFi router
Many people understand the importance of restarting the router, but very few know when is the best time to reboot the router.
Well, there is no precise time to reboot your router and modem. It is good to give your router a reboot every couple of months or if you notice that your WiFi connection is unstable and slow.
There is no bad time for restarting since it would not cause side effects or damage the router’s memory, storage, or overall work.
Automatic reboot
You can set an automatic reboot by opening the router’s Advanced settings. There, you can find a “Reboot Schedule” option that lets you select the frequency and time you want your router to restart. You can save that schedule and let your router automatically reboot after time.
There is another advanced option that lets you schedule the reboot and let the device restart on its own. This can be done with the Smart Plug, a power input plug with a digital timer that turns the power off and back on when you schedule it.
These plugs often come with a remote controller, allowing you to reboot the device from anywhere.
Also read: How to Access Router Settings From Phone
Conclusion
We are happy if this detailed article has helped you learn how to restart WiFi router and why it is important to do it every couple of months.
Enjoy a steady and fast Internet connection by only plugging your device off and on into the power output!