An internet connection that constantly drops can disturb your whole life. Since the pandemic, most people have been using the Internet for work, creating a home office with a small window for entertainment.
Therefore, Wi-Fi can be considered a part of every family, and there should be an extra plate at the dinner table. “Why does my router keep disconnecting?” is a question that we noticed on multiple platforms and decided to address to help people that struggle with this issue.
Why Does My Router Keep Disconnecting?
Your router could be disconnecting because of many reasons. Maybe too many devices are connected, the device could be placed in a bad spot, there is radio interference, the wireless card needs an update, the router gives signs that it could use a break, or you need entirely new equipment.
If you are studying, following a cooking class, working, or just finishing the last season of Stranger Things, dropping the wireless connection at the most inappropriate time can be a major buzzkill.
As advanced technology has multiple fixes for this problem, people often suffer from this inconvenience and decide to do something even after a couple of months. Let’s elaborate more on each reason and give you some tips on how you can fix it!
Read more: How Can I Test My Router For Problems
Reasons Why Your Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting
If you wonder, “why does my router keep disconnecting?” you need to be aware of every possible reason that causes a sudden disconnection of your wireless to be able to fix the problem. Here are the most common reasons why your device keeps dropping the connection.
Many connected devices
Times have changed, and even the smallest person in each family owns a smartphone. Back in the day, when Wi-Fi first came to the scene, one household used two computers max, but now, many iPads and gadgets are thrown around that use wireless connection. The Wi-Fi does not take long to jump on the struggle wagon.
What comes as a surprise is that a study has proven that even if the router is not sending or receiving data, it still takes a small portion of the bandwidth. This means that the more devices are connected to the router, you will notice slowdowns or drops in the wireless connection.
Solution
The easiest and first solution that comes to mind is disconnecting some devices. However, we recommend another approach which is, changing the password of your Wi-Fi. Changing the password of the entire wireless network will immediately kick everyone out. Afterward, only the devices that are a priority and you use regularly will be able to reconnect.
If possible, you can try to switch between bands, and instead of using 2.4GHz, transfer over to 5GHz, where there is less traffic. You can do this process by entering the router’s settings.
Bad placement
One of the most typical reasons for Wi-Fi failure is that it is placed in a bad spot. If the router is in a closet three doors down from the device you are trying to connect to the Internet, normally, there will be an outer limit of the signal range, and you will experience network interruptions.
Solution
To solve this issue, we recommend installing the router in the same room where you plan to use most of the smart devices. This way, there will be no cement walls to interrupt the connection.
You must elevate the router so there are no obstacles in the way and, if possible, place it in the middle of your house. Plus, avoid metal or glass objects because the wireless signal tends to bounce off them.
Read more: Which WiFi Standard Am I Using?
Radio frequencies
Many people place their Wi-Fi router next to their smart TVs, Bluetooth devices, or cordless phones. This is a bad move because all these different signals can interfere with the connection and eventually result in signal dropping.
Now you know why your Wi-Fi is disturbed every time you pass by the microwave in the kitchen. Radio interference can also occur if you live in a condo building or an apartment where everyone owns a Wi-Fi router and the devices are in close proximity.
Solution
To fix the interruptions by radio frequencies, you must change the channel on which the Wi-Fi is working. For this process, you can use an application, and we recommend Wi-Fi Analyzer.
The software will hint at which wireless channels are used the most and which are the least so you can make your pick.
On the other hand, you can simply switch over to the 5GHz band. This can be the best solution if you live in a building with hundreds of access points operating on the 2.4GHz band.
Outdated wireless card
Like other electronic devices such as gaming consoles, computers, or printers, the Wi-Fi card requires regular updates. Otherwise, it will not perform to its full potential.
One of the reasons you may be struggling with connection drops is that the wireless card needs updating. We recommend that you check the drivers and see whether they are up to date.
Solution
Like other tech devices, you must go straight to the source to fix this issue. To upgrade the Wi-Fi card’s drivers, you must visit the manufacturer’s website and check for the most recent versions.
Router’s timeout
As time goes on, people more often take electronic devices for granted. Laptops, cell phones, and other digital things are always turned on regardless of whether someone uses them. Routers are no exception, and you should instantly break the habit. Give the device a timeout.
Solution
Turn the router off and keep it unplugged for at least 30 seconds. If you do not need an internet connection at the moment, the duration of the break can be up to five minutes. Afterward, restart the router.
A new equipment
In some cases, repositioning and restarting the router may not fix your problem. If you tried everything we suggest and nothing has worked, it may be time for new network equipment.
The newer services become less compatible with old routers as time goes on. The time has come for you to bite the bullet and purchase a new Wi-Fi device.
Read more: How to Control Devices Connected to Your WiFi
Conclusion
After reading our article, you can stop questioning yourself, “why does my router keep disconnecting?’ and start doing something about your network droppings.
We made a list of the most common reasons you are experiencing Wi-Fi breaks and solutions for each.
Good Luck!