When your router is not working, the cause may be the router, modem or gateway, internet service, or a loose cable. Follow these checks in order before you reset or replace equipment.

Quick answer

Check whether every device is offline, inspect the router’s power and internet lights, reseat the modem-to-router cable, then restart the modem and router in the correct order. Factory reset only after basic checks fail.

Hand restarting a Wi-Fi router during troubleshooting

1. Check whether every device is offline

Try a phone, computer, and streaming device. If one device is offline, the router is likely working. If every device is offline, continue with the router and modem checks.

2. Check router lights and connections

Typical router status lights showing normal, red, amber, unlit, and blinking states

Confirm the router has power. A red, amber, unlit, or constantly blinking Internet, WAN, globe, or online light can mean it is not receiving a usable connection. Reseat the power adapter and Ethernet cable from the modem or gateway to the router’s WAN/Internet port—not a numbered LAN port.

  • Check that the router has open air around it and is not unusually hot.
  • Look for cable damage and loose plugs.
  • Do not press the recessed Reset button yet.

3. Restart the modem and router correctly

  1. Unplug the modem or gateway and router.
  2. Wait at least 60 seconds.
  3. Plug in the modem first and wait until its online light settles.
  4. Plug in the router and wait another 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Test more than one device.
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4. Check for an internet-service outage

If the modem never returns online, check your provider’s outage page or app. If service is normal, try a known-good Ethernet cable between the modem and router.

5. Reset only when basic troubleshooting fails

A factory reset can help with corrupted settings or an unknown administrator password, but it removes your Wi-Fi name, password, parental controls, and other configuration.

When to replace the router

Replacement may be sensible when the router repeatedly disconnects, will not power on with a known-good adapter, overheats, or cannot support your household’s Wi-Fi needs. See our weak Wi-Fi coverage guide for coverage ideas.

Compare mesh Wi-Fi systems on Amazon.

Compare current Wi-Fi routers on Amazon.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my router connected but there is no internet?

A 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 outage status.

Should I reset or restart my router?

Restart first. A restart clears temporary issues; a factory reset erases settings.

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.

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