Your wireless router should be something you set up and forget about.

Good equipment can keep your home network running smoothly with almost no effort.

But even the best routers get old and need replacing after a while.

How Long Should My Router Last?

Experts say you should get a new router every five years or so. If you have many devices like smartphones or smart home gadgets, you might need one every two or three years.

Routers cost money, though, so you probably don’t want to buy a new one unless necessary. How can you tell if yours is on its way out?

Five Hints Your Router Needs Replacing

Here are some signs your router might be ready for an upgrade:

• Internet moving too slow

• Signal dropping often

• Hardware acting weird

• New gadgets not working right

• Router getting too hot

Let’s break these down so you know what’s going on. If your router shows a few of these problems, it’s probably time to shop for a new one.

1. Internet Moving Too Slow

You can tell when your internet is sluggish. Videos stop to buffer, games freeze, and web pages take forever to open. It’s annoying, and it could happen for different reasons.

To check if your router is the issue, rule out other problems first. Make sure too many devices aren’t connected at once—your network can only handle so much.

Test your speed with all devices on, then again with some turned off. If it’s still slow, plug your computer straight into the modem with a cable.

If the speed improves with the cable, your router might be the problem. Check its spot in the house and look for other issues.

If it’s still slow after all that, you may need a new one.

2. Signal Dropping Often

Does your Wi-Fi keep cutting out? That’s a pain, especially if you’re working or studying from home.

It might be because the signal has to travel too far. Bigger houses can stretch a router’s range to the limit.

Try boosting the signal or testing it right next to the router. If the connection still drops and nothing’s blocking the way, your router could be wearing out.

3. Hardware Acting Weird

Sometimes, your router just stops working right. Maybe the buttons don’t respond, or the lights won’t turn on even when plugged in.

These are clear signs it’s breaking down. If it’s not dead yet, it might be soon.

4. New Gadgets Not Working Right

Tech keeps improving, and new devices come with updated parts. Older routers might not play nice with the latest laptops, phones, or smart home tools.

Plus, newer stuff needs more speed and power, which an old router might not handle well.

5. Router Getting Too Hot

It’s normal for a router to warm up while it’s on. But if it feels burning hot all the time, that’s a problem.

Keep it in a spot with good airflow to help it last longer. If it still overheats, it’s a clue you’ll need a replacement soon.

Wrapping It Up

If your router has most of these issues, it’s probably time to say goodbye. All tech wears out eventually, and routers are no different.

The good news? There are tons of great options out there for any home, device count, or budget. A new router can get your internet back to full speed in no time.