One button Wi-Fi router tip can instantly change | Tech News

Just final week, Express.co.uk reported that giving your router a fast reboot each now and again can help to spice up broadband speeds. A reset is a great thought because it can clear points that could be affecting these all-important downloads. “A quick reboot can clear temporary issues, refresh the connection, and help resolve slow speeds or dropouts,” Virgin Media explained. So yes, a short, sharp power down once in a while is a good idea, but hitting the power button too often can have exactly the opposite effect.

In fact, turning off the router before heading to bed can actually lead to much slower speeds and even put homes at risk.

So what’s the issue with powering down?

There are two main things to consider. Firstly, constantly turning off that flashing black box can make your Internet Service Provider (ISP) think that there’s a fault with the connection. As a result, automatic systems may be put in place to reduce your broadband speed in an attempt to maintain a stable service.

The second reason to leave the power on is that routers often receive important software and security updates overnight.

If your router is powered down, it could miss these updates, potentially affecting both speed and security.

Explaining more, BT said, “Keep your hub switched on and connected at all times. This helps us give you the fastest and most stable service, and makes sure it stays up to date.

“Switching the hub off regularly can make the line appear unstable. This may cause your speed to be reduced to keep the connection reliable.”

Sky also offers similar advice with the firm saying, “Switching off your router in a single day can have an effect on computerized software program updates and optimisations which in flip can affect the general efficiency, pace and stability of your Broadband.”

To help get the very best connection, BT recommends holding your router in an open space and away from digital units that can intervene with the signal, reminiscent of child displays, cordless telephones, microwave ovens and even fish tanks. Avoid putting it inside cabinets or in direct daylight.

It’s price doing common pace checks in your broadband through companies reminiscent of Google’s online check or Speedtest.internet as these will show how effectively issues are performing.

The backside line: in order for you the best doable broadband efficiency, it’s best to depart your router switched on in a single day.