Do I Need a New Router? Five Signs to Look Out For

Ideally, your wireless router is something you shouldn’t have to think about very much once you’ve installed it. High-quality wireless equipment paired with a fast, reliable fiber internet connection can give you a strong home network while requiring little to no maintenance. But over time, even the best Wi-Fi systems will begin to age and eventually need to be replaced.

How Often Should I Replace My Router?

Experts recommend replacing your router at least every five years—and every two to three years for those who use several high-bandwidth devices and smart home technology. With today’s always-connected homes and gig-speed fiber internet like Ezee Fiber, your router plays a critical role in keeping everything running smoothly.

Your Wi-Fi router is an investment, so it’s understandable to hesitate before replacing it. The key is knowing when it’s time for an upgrade.

5 Signs You Need a New Router

You may need a new router if you’re experiencing any of the following:

1. Slow speeds
2. A weak connection
3. Malfunctioning equipment
4. Incompatibility with new devices
5. Overheating

If your router shows several of these symptoms, it may be time for a much-needed upgrade.

1. Slow Speeds

Slow internet speeds are hard to miss. Movies and TV shows buffer constantly. Video games and video calls lag. Websites take too long to load.

This can happen for several reasons, so it’s important to rule out other causes before replacing your router. Make sure you don’t have too many users or devices connected at the same time. Even with ultra-fast fiber internet, outdated equipment can hold your speeds back.

Try running a speed test with all devices connected, then again with only one device connected. If speeds are still slow, run a test with your computer connected directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable.

If your wired speeds are fast but your wireless speeds aren’t, your router may be the problem.

2. Weak Connection

If your Wi-Fi signal drops frequently, it can make working from home or streaming frustrating. One possible cause is the distance your signal must travel. Larger homes may require stronger or more advanced Wi-Fi equipment to provide full coverage.

Fiber internet like Ezee Fiber delivers speed to your home, but your router determines how well that speed reaches every room.

Test your connection by standing near your router. If the signal remains weak, your router may be outdated or underpowered.

3. Malfunctioning Equipment

A clear sign your router needs replacing is when it no longer works as it should. Buttons may stop responding, indicator lights may fail, or the device may reboot randomly.

These issues often signal that your router is breaking down and may soon fail entirely.

4. Incompatibility With Newer Devices

As technology advances, newer devices are built to work best with modern Wi-Fi standards. If you’ve recently upgraded your phone, computer, smart TV, or smart home devices, an older router may struggle to support them properly.

Newer devices also require more bandwidth and faster speeds. Your router must be able to keep up—especially when paired with high-speed fiber internet designed for today’s digital demands.

5. Overheating

It’s normal for routers to feel warm during use. However, frequent overheating can indicate that your router can no longer handle your internet usage.

Keep your router in a well-ventilated area, but if overheating continues, it’s a strong sign that an upgrade is needed.

Get the Most Out of Your Internet With Ezee Fiber

If you’re experiencing these issues, it’s likely time for a new Wi-Fi system.

Every Ezee Fiber plan comes equipped with a state-of-the-art eero Wi-Fi router. eero’s advanced mesh technology ensures that every corner of your home is covered with fast, reliable internet when paired with Ezee Fiber's powerful connection.

Our friendly, local support team is always available to help you stay connected and get the most out of your internet experience. Upgrade your home network and discover what your internet is truly capable of with Ezee Fiber.