Can routers go bad? Routers are a critical part of any home or office network, but they can sometimes go bad. When this happens, you need to know how to troubleshoot and fix the problem.
A bad router can cause all sorts of problems for your network, from slow speeds to no connection at all. If your router is acting up, you need to take action right away.
Edon Lazaj has put together a list of most common symptoms that your routers go bad. Whether you’re using a PC or Mac, we have you covered.
Can a router “go bad” with time?
What Are Some Possible Reasons for a Failed Router?
As electronic devices, routers can and do go bad over time. There are a number of possible reasons for why this may happen, from general wear-and-tear to more specific issues like power surges or firmware corruption. In some cases, you may be able to tell that your router is going bad simply by observing its performance; in others, you may need to use diagnostic tools to get a more accurate picture.
Let’s see 12 most common signs that your routers go bad.
12 Signs that your routers go bad
You can’t log in
If you face login issues or are unable to log in to your router’s web interface, it’s a sign that something is wrong. This could be due to a number of factors, from incorrect login credentials to browser compatibility issues, but it’s definitely something you’ll want to look into.
The router isn’t responding
If your router doesn’t seem to be responding to any requests (e.g., you can’t connect to the internet or access the router’s web interface), then it’s likely gone bad. This could be due to a hardware issue or a software issue, so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
There’s physical damage
Any physical damage to your router (e.g., cracks, burns, or water damage) is a sure sign that it’s gone bad and needs to be replaced.
The internet is slow
If your once-fast internet connection has suddenly slowed down, it could be a sign that your router is going bad. Of course, there are many other potential causes of slow internet (e.g., ISP issues, malware, etc.), so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
You’re getting disconnected
If you’re regularly getting disconnected from the internet or your Wi-Fi network, it could be a sign that your router is going bad. Once again, there are many other potential causes of this issue (e.g., power fluctuations, interference, etc.), so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
There’s no internet at all
If you’re not able to connect to the internet at all, it’s likely that your router has gone bad. This could be due to a number of issues, so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
You’re seeing strange activity
If you notice any strange or suspicious activity on your network (e.g., unexpected bandwidth usage, unfamiliar devices connected, etc.), it could be a sign that your router has been compromised. This is a serious issue and should be addressed immediately.
The LEDs are behaving oddly
The LEDs on your router can give you some clues as to its current status. If they’re behaving oddly (e.g., they’re flashing when they shouldn’t be, they’re off when they should be on, etc.), it could be a sign that your router is going bad.
You’re getting strange error messages
If you’re seeing strange error messages or warnings, it could be a sign that your router is going bad. This could be due to a number of issues, so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
The web interface has changed
If the web interface for your router has changed unexpectedly (e.g., you see a different logo, the layout is different, etc.), it’s possible that your router has been compromised. This is a serious issue and should be addressed immediately.
The router is overheating
If your router seems to be getting unusually hot, it’s a sign that something is wrong. This could be due to a variety of factors, so you’ll need to troubleshoot further to determine the cause.
Your Router is old
Just like any other piece of technology, routers have a lifespan. If your router is more than a few years old, it’s possible that it’s simply reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
How Long can a Router Last For?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the quality of the router, how often it’s used, and the environment it’s in. In general, though, you can expect a router to last for around three to five years. Of course, there are always exceptions to this rule and some routers may last longer (or shorter) depending on the circumstances.
When to Replace Your Router?
If you’re experiencing any of the issues listed above, it’s likely that your router has gone bad and needs to be replaced. However, it’s always a good idea to troubleshoot further to make sure that there isn’t another underlying issue causing the problem.
If you’re not sure whether or not your router is going bad, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional. They’ll be able to help you diagnose the problem and determine whether or not your router needs to be replaced.
Some recommended Routers
If you’re in the market for a new router, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide what type of router you need. There are many different types of routers on the market, so it’s important to do your research and choose one that’s right for your needs.
Second, you’ll need to consider your budget. Routers can range in price from around $30 to $300 or more, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget.
Finally, you’ll want to read reviews and compare features to find the best router for your needs. Some recommended routers include the TP-Link Archer A7, Netgear Nighthawk R7000P, and Asus RT-AC86U.
No matter which router you choose, make sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. This will help you find the best router for your needs and avoid any potential problems down the road.
F.A.Q can routers go bad
How do you know when a router goes bad?
There are several signs that can indicate that a router is going bad. These include strange error messages, odd behavior from the LEDs, a changed web interface, and overheating.
How long does a router usually last?
The lifespan of a router depends on several factors, including the quality of the router, how often it’s used, and the environment it’s in. In general, though, you can expect a router to last for around three to five years.
How do I check to see if my router is working properly?
If you’re experiencing any issues with your router, the first thing you should do is check the documentation that came with the router. This will help you troubleshoot any potential problems. If you can’t find anything in the documentation, you can also contact the manufacturer for assistance.
Do Wi-Fi routers wear out?
Like any other piece of technology, routers have a lifespan. If your router is more than a few years old, it’s possible that it’s simply reached the end of its life and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
We’ve looked at some of the signs that your router might be on its way out and what you can do to prolong its life. If you’re seeing any of these symptoms, it might be time for a replacement. Keep in mind that routers do eventually wear out, so don’t wait too long if you think there might be an issue. Luckily, replacements are relatively affordable and easy to install, so there’s no need to worry. Have you had experience with a bad router? Let us know about it in the comments below.