If you’re thinking about relocating your router to another room, there are a few key steps to ensure a smooth transition. 

Your router requires a wired connection to the internet, meaning the new location must have an active internet line.

If there’s no existing connection, the simplest solution is to have your internet provider install one.

Once the necessary connection is in place, moving the router is a straightforward process—just plug it into the active line and a power source. Below is a step-by-step breakdown to guide you.

Steps to Move Your Router

1. Ensure the new room has an internet line – Install a new line or activate an existing one.
2. Connect your modem and router – Hook up the devices to the internet line and power outlet.
3. Test the connection – Confirm the internet is working properly.
4. Close off any unused lines – Prevent signal interference by terminating inactive connections.

Setting Up an Internet Line in the New Room

For a successful move, the room must have the appropriate networking cable. Cable and fiber internet require a coaxial line, while DSL needs a phone line.

Checking for an Active Connection

If there’s already a cable in the room, test its functionality by plugging in your modem and router. If the modem connects to the internet, the line is active.

If not, activation is required. This process is best handled by a technician from your internet provider, as it can be complex.

Installing a New Connection

If no internet line is available, contact your provider to install one. While it’s possible to do it yourself, professional installation ensures a reliable setup.

The provider’s technician can also assess the overall network performance.

There are two installation methods:

• Running a cable from another room or outside the house. This results in a visible cable along the baseboards but keeps installation simple.

• Concealing the cable within the walls, known as wallfishing, which provides a cleaner look but may cost more.

Placing the Router in a Different Room Than the Modem

If your modem and router are separate devices, you can leave the modem in its original location and move just the router.

To do this, run an Ethernet cable from the modem to the router’s new position.

However, keeping both devices in the same room is generally recommended for better organization and troubleshooting.

If your internet connection isn’t available in the desired location, a technician can extend the necessary wiring.

Running an Ethernet Cable Yourself

For those comfortable with DIY projects, installing an Ethernet cable is an option. Many hardware stores offer cable staples to neatly secure the wire along baseboards.

When planning the route, measure carefully to ensure enough cable length to navigate corners and doorways.

Avoid placing cables across open floors, as they can become a tripping hazard.

Moving the Equipment

Once the new connection is set up, it’s time to relocate the modem and router.

1. Connect the modem to the internet line – Use a coaxial cable for cable or fiber internet, or a phone line for DSL.
2. Link the router to the modem – Use an Ethernet cable and connect it to the WAN port on the router. If you have a combined modem/router unit, skip this step.
3. Plug in the power cables – Wait a few minutes for the devices to establish a connection.

Checking the Connection

Run an internet speed test to verify everything is working correctly.

Closing Off Unused Connections

Leaving an inactive line open can lead to interference, which affects internet speed and stability.

Your provider’s technician can handle this step, but you can also do it yourself using a coaxial terminator.

To seal off an unused cable:

• If dealing with an open cable end, use a barrel connector and a coaxial terminator.

• For a wall outlet, simply screw the terminator onto the port.

Alternatives to Relocating the Router

If moving the router isn’t an option, there are other ways to improve internet coverage in a specific area:

• Reposition the router – Adjusting its placement can help improve Wi-Fi reach.

• Use a Wi-Fi extender – This device amplifies the existing signal but may slightly reduce speed.

• Try a powerline adapter – This creates a wired internet connection using the electrical wiring in your home, providing a more stable connection without additional cables.

With these steps, you can successfully set up your internet connection in a new room while maintaining strong performance.