If you have been experimenting with wireless connectivity, you may wonder why a router keeps disconnecting. Even the best routers, after all, can be prone to sudden disconnections. Keep reading to learn about common disconnection causes and what to do about them.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Routers can suddenly and repeatedly disconnect for a number of reasons, including a cable modem that is not pumping out a good signal.
- The wireless router itself could be out-of-date and not privy to modern Internet protocols, such as Wi-Fi 6, which could interrupt your Internet connection.
- You could also have too many gadgets using your router at once, maxing out the bandwidth for a wireless connection.
What Causes a Router Disconnection?
There are a number of reasons why an Internet router would suddenly disconnect, so you’ll have to troubleshoot. It’s always a good idea to know the ins and outs of your router anyways, in case you are wondering what the USB port on a router is used for. Here are some of the most common reasons for router disconnection and what to do about them.
Insider Tip
You can always unplug the router and modem, wait a minute, and then plug them back in, as a form of reset.
Modem Issues
More often than not, it is the fault of the modem for a connection issue, and not the router. Your router could be working fine in some ways, such as when you are learning how to connect two computers using a router, but if it cannot receive Internet signal, from the modem, you won’t be able to connect online. Contact your Internet service provider (ISP) to ask if your service is down from a local outage or if you forgot to pay the bill. Otherwise, the modem itself could be damaged. Your ISP will run necessary diagnostic tests.
Out-of-Date Router
If your router is ancient and not hip to modern wireless standards, you are likely to run into connection issues. Wi-Fi 6, also known as 802.11ax or Wireless AX, is the latest Internet protocol, so if your router maxes out at Wi-Fi 4, it could run into issues. What’s the solution? Unfortunately, the easiest fix here is to go out and buy a new router that can handle modern Internet protocols and fast Internet connectivity.
Bandwidth Problems
If you have too many devices using your router and wireless network at once, your bandwidth could become maxed out, which would force some devices to disconnect. Take a look at your router’s software to see who is using what and manually disconnect any gadgets that are hogging up your resources. Generally speaking, streaming UHD video, conducting Zoom meetings, and playing online games are all notorious for maxing out the bandwidth.
Faulty Cables
Your old and damaged cables could be the culprit, especially the Ethernet cable connecting the router to the modem. Go out and buy new cables, even the power cable, and try everything again.
F.A.Q.S
Are other devices connecting fine?
If you are having no issues connecting other wireless devices, it might not be an issue with your network connection, rather with one of your gadgets.
Why does my WiFi keep turning off and on?
There are plenty of reasons why this happens. Check the router firmware, the power cord, and advanced system settings.
How to report a sudden outage?
If your wifi connection keeps going down, it could indicate an unstable Internet connection. Contact your ISP and let them know what is going on.
STAT: Experts agree you should replace your router every three to five years. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://community.netgear.com/t5/Nighthawk-WiFi-Routers/5g-wifi-keeps-disconnecting-AC1900/td-p/1855261
- https://www.dell.com/community/Inspiron/Ethernet-wired-connection-keeps-disconnecting/td-p/6216566
- https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/2233/r
- https://discover.centurylink.com/why-you-should-reboot-your-router-regularly.html
- https://www.statista.com/statistics/947604/worldwide-wireless-router-market-value/
