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We and our partners process data to: Actively scan device characteristics for identification. I Accept Show Purposes. Every five years is a good timeline to replace or at least consider replacing your old home networking equipment.
That way, you can keep up with tech and get a good amount of use out of each router. You can certainly upgrade more frequently, especially if you like being on the cutting edge of tech or you wear through your routers more quickly with heavy use. But if you are in the market for a new router, check out our favorite wireless routers that use the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology. It saves you money in the long run and gives you more control over your home network.
There are hundreds of routers on the market with features that can boost Wi-Fi range, speed up online gaming connections, streamline multiple connections, and improve internet security.
Connection issues can appear as losing your internet connection and difficulty connecting to the internet. Poor connectivity is a pretty good sign that your router is on its last legs. Now, not all internet connection issues are caused by a faulty router—provider network outages, loose cords, modem issues, and other things can also disrupt your internet connection. But there are a few easy ways to check where your problem is. The brand plays a significant role. A wireless router from a highly reputable brand will undoubtedly last longer than others.
In addition, top wireless routers brands like Netgear and Asus utilize the highest quality materials to ensure that their wireless routers last for a long time. The location you install your router matters a lot.
For instance, installation in an area with high traffic is a dead end. Also, avoid installing your it in areas filled with dust. From my experience, I can tell you that a well-ventilated room is the best place for Wi-Fi routers.
The last thing you want is a non-functional wireless router. The average lifespan of a router is five years. However, it can stop functioning after 2, 3, or 4 years. Imagine waking up one morning only to realize that your wireless router has stopped functioning. Without a doubt, you will feel disappointed — especially if you have urgent work to do.
You can also look yourself to see when the last time your router firmware was updated. There are a couple of ways to do this. The name of the menu or setting will vary by brand. The exact address varies by model but is often indicated directly on the router itself. If no update has been available for months, or even years, the router is probably no longer being supported.
As a rule of thumb, a Netgear representative told us, consumers should consider replacing their router after three years, and representatives from Google and Linksys said a three-to-five-year window was appropriate. Amazon, which owns the popular Eero brand of routers, put the range at three to four years. However, CR's own survey data indicates that one-fifth of consumers wait more than four years to replace their router.
Why do so many routers stop getting updates after just a few years? You also should upgrade your router if it's no longer delivering fast and reliable WiFi to your devices. You can determine this a few ways. Large downloads, such as games from platforms like Steam and Xbox GamePass, may take forever and a day to finish.
But before you buy a new router, run a speed test or two to get an idea how fast your connection is to the internet. This will tell you whether the problem is really with the router or with your internet service provider. There are several speed tests online, including SpeedTest.
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