How To Replace a Router
Routers are the gateway between your devices and the internet. They help keep your home or workplace connected and online at all times. However, like any other piece of technology, routers degrade over time with use—meanwhile, technology evolves and improves to outpace what was once cutting-edge.
Understanding when and how often to replace a router is crucial to keeping your internet connection stable and safe. So let’s dive into why, when, and how to replace a router.
Ideal Location for the Router
Routers are the heart of your network connection, be it through a network cable or WiFi. Router positioning is key when trying to keep as many devices connected at once around your home or workplace to have a stable connection across all devices.
When considering router placement, take into account your home layout and possible interference sources. Having many walls or floors between your router and devices can greatly degrade your connection signal. Several wireless or Bluetooth devices in a small area can also negatively affect your signal.
In addition, keep in mind what kind of power cord plug your router has. You should consider having a wall plug installed to accommodate your equipment or pick a room where you can properly plug your router into a power outlet.
Checking Internet Connection
Before getting into how to install a new router, you must first test your internet connection. While replacing your router is often important, sometimes improving your internet speed can be as simple as rebooting your router.
Use any online speed tools like SpeedTest to ensure your connection is up and running before you replace your router. This way, you can ensure the issue isn’t the connection itself.
Understanding When to Replace a Router
Looking for the right signs to indicate that you need to replace your router can help you understand if you need to make the switch. Some reasons to replace the router:
- Outdated technology
- Slow internet performance
- Limited network coverage
- Constant disconnects
- Device compatibility
- Physical damage or wear
- Upgrading to whole-home WiFi
If your router is underperforming even after several reboots, it might be time to get a new one. Keep in mind that the average router lifespan is between three and five years, depending on how much you use it.
Steps for Replacing a Wireless Router
- Determine Router Type: Understand the requirements based on wireless standards, speed, security features, and more.
- Gather Tools and Materials: Make sure you have the necessary installation items like the router itself, Ethernet cables, power adapter, and ISP details.
- Disconnect Current Router: Safely remove the previous router and store the cables.
- Setup New Wireless Network: Get access to your router settings, change SSID, passwords, and other settings.
- Connect Your Devices: Use the SSID and password you set up to connect your devices to the new wireless network.
- Test Your Router: Run a speed test tool like SpeedTest to ensure optimal performance and stability on your devices.
Enjoy Your New Network
Replacing and setting up a new router is quite an easy and quick process. After you’re all set up and ready to go, it’s time to enjoy your new network with all the settings to your liking. Some ISPs like Fidium Fiber also offer an incredibly easy process to switch your router if you need it.
The best way to enjoy your router is through a great ISP like Fidium Fiber. Enjoy all the features and fast internet speeds of your new router through fast fiber internet by contacting Fidium Fiber right now.