Regular router reboots can help maintain home network performance
Engadget recommends scheduling router restarts, while keeping firmware updated and network passwords strong.
Home routers may benefit from regular reboots, according to Engadget, which recommends restarting the devices on a schedule as a basic maintenance step.
A reboot can clear temporary memory and connections, refresh links between the router, modem and internet provider, and prompt the router to search for less congested Wi-Fi channels. These steps may help address dropped connections, buffering and inconsistent speeds, although results will vary by device, network configuration and provider.
Engadget’s main recommendation is a monthly restart. The article also cites National Security Agency guidance referring to weekly scheduled reboots, and Federal Bureau of Investigation advice to restart a router when activity appears suspicious.
Users should distinguish a reboot from a factory reset. Turning the router off and on preserves network settings, while a factory reset erases them, including the network name and password.
For a manual restart, Engadget advises unplugging the router for 30 seconds to one minute before reconnecting it. Where a separate modem is in use, the modem should be restarted first and given time to reconnect before the router is powered back on.
Some routers support automatic reboots and firmware updates through their settings or an app. Engadget also recommends current firmware and strong network passwords, while noting that restarting alone is not a guaranteed solution for persistent coverage, hardware or service-provider problems.
