Although JTM Broadband has a dedicated support team to help you out if you ever run into any networking issues, there are some issues that can be resolved on your own right at home. One of the most common fixes that you can do on your own is resetting your router.
Resetting your router is one of the first things you should try if your internet goes down. Not only will this reset your connection settings, but it can also interrupt malicious attacks on your network and boot unwanted devices off your network. It can also resolve a wide range of issues with Internet speed and connectivity.
Here is how you can reset your router as well as some important things to keep in mind as you’re resetting your router.
Step 1: Unplug your router and modem
While your router may have an option labeled Reset or Restart, you should be cautious when using these as they may initiate a factory reboot and erase all your current settings. Instead, simply unplug your router and modem (if you have a combined unit, just unplug that) from everything they are attached to. This includes each other and their power sources.
Once unplugged, leave your router alone for about a minute. This will ensure that your router is completely cooled down, and that your devices have all acknowledged that the Wi-Fi network is down. Next, plug your modem back into its power source. It should take about a minute for the modem to warm up and get ready to pass along its Internet connection. Once a minute has passed, you can plug your router back into the modem, the outlet, and any other necessary connection. Wait a few minutes for your router to connect with everything and establish your wireless Internet signal once again.
Step 2: Update your firmware
Firmware is the integral software that helps keep your router functioning. Although, router firmware doesn’t upgrade as frequently as computer operating systems, it will receive updates occasionally. The next step in resetting your router is to download any new router firmware so that any existing router vulnerabilities you may have can be patched. For this step, you will need your router login information. Usually, there is an app or an administrator site you can use to check for firmware and then download it. Once you’re logged in, one of the options will be Firmware Update, Router Update, or something similar. Choose this option and then follow the instructions.
It’s important to note that when the router is uploading and implementing the firmware patch, you won’t be able to use your Wi-Fi. This typically doesn’t take longer than 5 minutes. Keep in mind that turning off or messing with your router while you’re updating the firmware could cause serious problems. The good news is, if you have one of our routers we will handle these updates for you.
Step 3: Update any related apps
Most modern routers typically offer apps that you can download on your mobile device to manage your router settings or view router usage reports. If you use one of these apps, then you should also consider visiting your app settings to make sure that the app is fully updated to the most recent version.
How often should you reset your router?
Remember, resetting your router isn’t just a way to fix problems. Just like shutting your computer down and running a hard restart, it’s also important to routinely reboot your router to maximize its health. Resetting can also help put a stop to malware attempts as periodic refreshes can help clear your router’s memory. This is essential when several devices have been using the router as well as for older routers that don’t have much memory onboard.
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