When your router is not working, the problem may be with the router itself, the modem or gateway, your internet service, or simply a loose connection. The fastest solution is to check those possibilities in the right order—without resetting everything unnecessarily.

Quick answer

Start by checking whether other devices have lost internet access, then inspect the router’s power and internet-status lights. Restart the modem and router in the correct order before considering a factory reset. A reset should be the last step because it erases your network name, password, and other settings.

Hand restarting a Wi-Fi router during troubleshooting

1. Determine whether the problem affects every device

Try the internet on a phone, computer, and streaming device. If only one device is offline, the router is probably working and the device needs attention. If every device is offline, continue with the router and modem checks below.

2. Check the router lights and connections

Front view of a Wi-Fi router with unlit status lights during a router restart
In this image no power cord is connected to the Wi-Fi router and therefore no indicator lights are illuminated.

Confirm the router has power. Then look for an Internet, WAN, globe, or online light. The exact labels and colors vary by manufacturer, but a red, amber, unlit, or constantly blinking internet light commonly means the router is not receiving a usable connection from the modem or gateway.

  • Make sure the power adapter is firmly connected at both ends.
  • Reseat the Ethernet cable that runs from the modem or gateway to the router’s WAN/Internet port.
  • Check that the cable has not been moved into one of the router’s numbered LAN ports.
  • If the router feels unusually hot, move it into open air and allow it to cool before restarting it.

3. Restart the modem and router in the correct order

A correct restart resolves many temporary connection problems. Do not press the recessed Reset button for this step.

  1. Unplug the modem or gateway and the router.
  2. Wait at least 60 seconds.
  3. Plug in the modem or gateway first.
  4. Wait until its online/internet light settles—often 2 to 5 minutes.
  5. Plug in the router and give it another 2 to 3 minutes to reconnect.
  6. Test the connection again from more than one device.

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4. Check for an internet-service outage

If the modem’s online light never returns after a restart, the issue may be outside your home. Check your provider’s status page or app, or contact support. If service is working but the router still has no connection, try a known-good Ethernet cable between the modem and router.

5. Avoid a factory reset unless the basic checks fail

A factory reset can help when the router’s settings are corrupted or the administrator password is unknown. It also removes customized Wi-Fi names, passwords, parental controls, port rules, and ISP-specific settings. Before resetting, save or photograph any configuration details you will need to enter again.

When to replace the router

Consider replacement when the router repeatedly disconnects after correct restarts, will not power on with a known-good adapter, overheats, or cannot provide the security and Wi-Fi standard your household needs. For larger homes or persistent coverage problems, a mesh Wi-Fi system may be more useful than a single stronger router. See our guide to improving weak Wi-Fi coverage for placement and coverage ideas.

Compare mesh Wi-Fi systems on Amazon if you need coverage across a larger home.

Compare current Wi-Fi routers on Amazon if replacement is the more practical option.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my router connected but there is no internet?

The router can broadcast Wi-Fi even when it is not receiving internet from the modem, gateway, or provider. Check the WAN cable, modem online light, and provider outage status.

Should I reset or restart my router?

Restart first. Restarting only clears temporary issues; a factory reset erases settings and requires setup again.

How long should a router take to reconnect?

Most home networks recover within 5 to 10 minutes after the modem is online and the router is restarted. Longer delays can indicate a provider issue, a cable problem, or a configuration issue.

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