Even if your router is working fine, there will come a time when the performance of the router will deteriorate after a few years. That is when you will need to replace your old router and get a new one. Even if your broadband connection is in a working condition, there are other benefits in replacing your old router. Timeline suggests that you change your router after five years, but here are a few reasons on why and when you should upgrade your router. Routers are not expensive, and installation does not take time.
What is a router?
Many confuse router with modem. However, the router may look like a modem, but it is a different device. A router takes Wi-Fi connection provided by the modem and provides split services to all the smartphones, tabs, laptops and streaming video devices. The simplest way to know the difference between the two is that the modem brings internet while the router splits it to share into multiple devices. Like, every other device, routers also lose their optimal usage after some time. Here, we have listed, a few checkpoints for you to ascertain when and why should you upgrade your router.
For speed
You know it is time to upgrade your router when your Wi-Fi speed does not seem to be enough. However, before arriving at a decision, do a small reboot test to dismiss the bugs in your network and run speed tests to ascertain if your router is not performing at its best. In any case, if you are using the same router for three to five years, replacing your router can improve speed. Not only speed, but a new router might be able to send stronger signal capable of getting internet into more corners of your home.
Newer Upgrades
Routers are upgraded every year and an outdated router may not be efficient. Routers have software embedded called firmware which controls the security and functionality of it. Manufacturers who provide broadband connections also offer updates that help improve performance, add new features, fix security issues. After 2-3 years, the updates will stop which could put you at risk if new vulnerabilities are found which has practically no fix to it. One of the easy methods is to use the router’s mobile app, which lets you manually check for updates.
Technology Advancement
Technology advances almost consistently and with that you would feel the need to upgrade the router to take advantage of the new technology capabilities. Nowadays not just phones or laptops need internet, but a host of other devices like smart TV, virtual assistant technology, smart refrigerator, and other household appliances. If your router isn’t updated, it won’t support newer devices.
Physical damage
With constant use, your router is susceptible to physical wear and tear. Although most wireless routers are built strong, serious falls cause technical problems. One way to check if you need a new wireless router is if its indicator lights aren’t working correctly. If there are no lights, it is a possibility that the router is now faulty.
