How to restart your router the right way
Turn off your router, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. This fixes most internet problems in under a minute. Don't unplug it while it's still running or you risk corrupting settings. Wait until all the lights on the front have gone dark before turning it back on.
A simple restart clears out problems that build up in your router's memory over time. The key is waiting those 30 seconds. It lets everything fully shut down. Turn it off, count to 30, turn it back on, and wait a couple of minutes for all the lights to stabilize before testing your internet.
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Skip — I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Not waiting the full 30 seconds. This is the most important part and rushing it means the restart doesn't work
- Unplugging the modem too but not restarting the router after. Restart both in order: modem first, then router
- Pulling the cable out while the router is still trying to save settings. Always let it finish before unplugging
Signs you need professional help
- Your internet is still not working after a full restart of both the modem and router Internet comes back but then drops out again every few hours. The restart is temporary fix for a deeper problem You see all the lights on your router are off and it won't turn back on
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