How to test a router to see if it is working properly is arguably the most common question people experiencing issues with their internet connection pose. We understand that network problems can be infuriating, whether you are trying to watch a movie or finish a work task with a deadline. Therefore, we are here to help.
It is important to understand that testing your wireless router and the speed of your Wi-Fi connection are two separate things. To test the performance of your device, you can try downloading and installing a piece of software specifically made for testing the router that allows you to set up a Wi-Fi speed test or use a Wi-Fi Analyzer.
Remember that a wireless router that works perfectly will provide excellent speed across the entire office or your home.
How to Test the Performance of Your Wireless Router
As already mentioned, people often mistake their internet connection speed for the speed of their wireless router.
The router is a device that aims to transfer data between devices thanks to a wireless network. In many cases, this device acts as a bridge between a home or office network and the outside world, i.e., the Internet. If you are experiencing some downfalls in the connection speed, the router may be the problem. The only logical next step is to check the source of the issue, whether it is in the device or the internet service provider.
Luckily, if it turns out you are experiencing some troubleshoots with your router, there are many popular speed-testing tools.
With the help of one of the many applications, you can test the maximum speed of your internet connection. However, you will not be able to tell your router’s speed by conducting this test. Testing your wireless router’s performance means checking your Wi-Fi network’s maximum speed. Here is how you can do so:
Step 1. Download and install the router testing app
To test the performance of your router, you need a specific application that can quickly and easily run a test. Thankfully, we live in a technologically advanced age where everything is possible.
Nowadays, there are many network speed testing tools available for Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS.
After conducting a lot of research, we recommend you try Wi-Fi Speed Test, a free application that can successfully test the performance of your router. The free version can be downloaded from the Google Play Store and carries all the important features that will test the performance of your wireless router. For an additional $2.40, you can remove the ads and unlock the Pro version.
Alternatively, if you are an iOS user, you can use an app called Wi-Fi SweetSpots.
Step 2. Wi-Fi Speed Test – setup
The next step is running the Wi-Fi test. For this process, all you need to do is connect your phone to the wireless network that you wish to test. By scrolling, you can find the Wi-Fi Speed Test on the left side of the app. You will be given the option to check many details about the network, such as the SSID channel and the link speed.
When you visit the More Options menu, there are going to be many features that can be changed, but don’t get overwhelmed; leave everything on default. If you decide to purchase a Pro version of this software, you will be able to run Wi-Fi tests that last longer than 10 seconds.
Step 3. Test run
Now that you have everything set up, the only thing left to do is press Start and wait. First, the app will do a quick latency test showing you the exact number of milliseconds your router needs to respond. Afterward, if you are using a free version of the app, a Wi-Fi speed test of 10 seconds will be performed.
You should be able to check the maximum link speed of the connection at the top of the screen and compare it with the average rate from the test.
Do remember, however, that the Wi-Fi transfer speed is never as high as the theoretical top speed. This is due to interference and error checking. However, if the difference is significantly bigger and the speed is lower than expected, you definitely have some router issues, and the device is most likely not working properly.
Step 4. Wi-Fi Analyzer
Despite not being necessary, some people like to take things a little further and run a couple more exams on their router’s performance. If one app is not enough, you can try and test your device with a Wi-Fi Analyzer.
This app is also available on the Google Play Store and can be downloaded in a matter of seconds. This piece of software has a few tools that can help you get to the bottom of your problem and figure out if the router is, in fact, responsible for your poor network.
Easy Fixes for Router Issues
We are confident that now you know how to test a router to see if it is working properly. If you determine that the router is the cause of your network issues, here are some things you can try.
Restart the device
Restarting the device and the entire equipment is always the first step for solving any internet troubleshooting. To add, almost everyone can do this quick fix without any supervision. The best part is that it is effective and capable of solving your wireless issues in most cases. Pay close attention if you don’t know how to restart the device.
- Unplug the power cable from the back of the router.
- Wait 1 minute.
- Plug the cord back in.
- Wait for the device to reboot.
If the reboot process of the equipment takes a little longer than expected, don’t be alarmed. The router may be downloading and installing updates.
Check for damaged or loose cables
Further, network connectivity problems can also arise due to cable issues. A damaged or loose cable can go unnoticed for a very long time until a network connectivity issue arises. If you use the same cable type as for the TV, you can try and screw everything more tightly at the back of the router. Additionally, you can also check the wall outlet.
Last but not least, you can check if any of the cables appear to be damaged. Be on the lookout for kinks, chew marks from pets, tears, or cuts. If you find a damaged spot, replace the cable without a second thought.
Read more: How Can I Test My Router For Problems
Conclusion
After we’ve explained how to test a router to see if it is working properly, you can download the app immediately and get to work. A performance testing tool can be a lifesaver and help you determine the source of the problem. If you are unhappy with your Wi-Fi, you can also try and use a booster for your wireless router signal or upgrade your router.