Everyone is familiar with the basic advice for computer troubleshooting: when a device acts up or slows down, restarting it often helps. The question remains whether this same approach works for network routers.
Numerous online discussions, particularly on platforms like Reddit, promote the idea of rebooting routers for better performance. My own experiments revealed some isolated instances suggesting a possible benefit, yet overall data indicated no real impact.
Of course, individual hardware varies, so outcomes can differ. Enhancing a router's data handling capacity reduces file transfer durations, boosting efficiency and enhancing the overall computing experience. Sudden slowdowns in connectivity can severely hinder tasks.
Many rely solely on the modem-router combo provided by their service provider, while some add dedicated gaming or multi-node systems for broader signal reach. These devices typically remain idle on surfaces until upgrade time. Restarting them—possible through remote commands, mobile applications, or direct power cycling—is rarely a routine action.
Routine care for routers primarily focuses on firmware refreshes. Such updates enhance functionality and device efficiency while fortifying defenses against potential security threats. For example, unexpected flaws have appeared in legacy Asus models, exposing them to risks.
Network performance often feels mysterious. When speeds are adequate, it's overlooked; when lagging or unstable, suspicions arise: is it the provider, the computer, the hardware, or suboptimal configurations? Or does a brief power cycle suffice to restore normal operation?
Like many, my budget prioritizes smartphones, desktops, data services, and video platforms, yet wireless tech ages quickly. My 802.11ac multi-node setup continues getting patches, but after learning from Netgear that an auxiliary system entered end-of-life, I've started evaluating options. (I also utilize a modem from my provider, Comcast.)
Family members sometimes enter my workspace noting sluggish web access, prompting diagnostic efforts. The simplest initial action? Powering down and restarting the router.
With constant activity across my setup—gadgets communicating internally and externally—a single trial wouldn't suffice. In the mid-afternoon, I conducted seven consecutive bandwidth checks using Microsoft's search engine's integrated tool, which leverages Speedtest.net technology. (In the search bar, enter 'speedtest.' The Ookla app is another option.) Afterward, I disconnected the router and modem, waited 30 seconds, reconnected, and ran the sequence again.
(I opted for the search engine's version due to user claims that the standalone Speedtest.net overstates download rates. Whether accurate or not, the direct site indeed showed higher figures than the integrated one.)
Following my supervisor's input—who faces similar connectivity woes—I repeated the assessment wirelessly from a smartphone on a tabletop. Here, I employed the search giant's native testing feature instead. My goal was to measure data flow pre- and post-restart, not to evaluate the tools themselves.
The findings proved intriguing, showing no alterations... although perceptions might suggest otherwise.
The sole notable shift appeared in the wired link from desktop to router, yielding exactly a 10% rise. Post-restart figures fluctuated wildly, including extremes of 554 Mbps, 939 Mbps, 561 Mbps, and 940 Mbps. Pre-restart results varied less, with highs of 724 Mbps and 568 Mbps.
Notably, my Comcast Xfinity subscription promises up to 800 Mbps!
To verify, I tried the official Speedtest.com platform separately. Lacking server details from the search engine's tool—unlike the full site—direct contrasts were impossible. Still, it consistently hit around 930 Mbps, exceeding both my plan and the other test's readings.
Based on the search engine's measurements, no reliable throughput gains occurred before versus after the reset. Subjectively, though, one could easily perceive improvement from a 940 Mbps reading. Statistically, however, numerous additional trials would be required to validate any true shift.
Yet curiosity persisted, so I retested around 6:30 p.m., during peak evening hours when local traffic intensifies. Would speeds finally drop?
Indeed, I performed seven more checks. Extremes persisted: 594 Mbps and 938 Mbps on downloads. Confidence in no reboot effect held firm, though proponents could cite an 18% variance as support.
The reboot legend probably stems from outdated wireless hardware struggling with expanding smart-home ecosystems. Back then, excess gadgets overwhelmed limited processing power. My setup mirrors average homes with smart televisions, streaming devices, notebooks, gaming systems, mobiles, and beyond. Complaints decreased after adopting a distributed network for full-house coverage.
That said, occasional resets might offer value. Hardware can auto-select clearer frequencies or allow user tweaks through software. Ideally, it scans for open bands on each association. A restart could also trigger firmware checks, a beneficial outcome.
Seeking definitive insight, I consulted multiple manufacturers on whether router restarts aid users. Consensus: they generally do not.
"Our MSI models feature robust software designed for sustained reliability and optimal resource use, eliminating the need for regular restarts to sustain output," stated Jason Chang, MSI's associate product marketing manager, in an email to PCWorld.
"The interface offers a voluntary timed restart option solely for those who want it, not as essential upkeep," Chang added. "I've never activated it myself. Daily operation delivers steady results for MSI users without mandatory resets."
Jonathan Oakes, Netgear's senior VP for residential connectivity, concurred.
"Restarting can resolve sporadic glitches like reduced velocities or lost links by clearing network states, but regular use on stable systems isn't advised," Oakes noted in an email. "Netgear builds devices for ongoing reliability sans frequent reboots; frequent needs signal issues such as signal clashes, overload, or aging gear requiring refresh.
"Firmware currency takes precedence," Oakes emphasized. "Our units enable auto-patches for vital safeguards and enhancements, securing your setup and ensuring fluid operation long-term. Enable it if inactive—it's the simplest path to dependable wireless without effort."
For persistent sluggishness, contact your provider. Agents perform distant diagnostics to identify local maintenance, hardware faults, wiring problems, or alternatives. They may dispatch experts to inspect your modem. Even legacy coaxial lines—beyond user control—might be culprits.
Following trials and expert input, my verdict stands: the notion is debunked, particularly for modern equipment. True speed gains come from plan upgrades, hardware refreshes, or professional checks. Isolated restarts won't fix underlying concerns.
Though skeptics may remain unswayed.
Mark has contributed to PCWorld over the past 10 years, drawing on three decades in tech journalism. He's penned more than 3,500 pieces for the outlet, spanning processors, accessories, and Windows OS, plus other areas. His work appears in outlets like PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News, earning a shared Jesse H. Neal Award for news coverage. Lately, he cleared space by donating numerous Thunderbolt adapters and USB-C stations from his workspace.