If you’ve internet randomly disconnects, there’s likely something wrong; either at your end or on your provider’s end. This problem could be caused by anything, from issues with your router, modem, or faulty cables to weakened signals, network congestion, and even internet service outages.
On the bright side, each of these problems can be resolved using some simple and quick fixes. In this article, I’ll help you identify the most common reasons your internet keeps cutting out and provide some practical tips that can help you resolve these issues.
Most Common Reasons Your Internet Keeps Disconnecting
Luckily for you, I went cop mode, and tracked down the usual suspects, one of which is most likely the reason your internet keeps disconnecting. Let’s see if you can identify which one it is.
Router Problems
The router is the device that’s responsible for connecting the different devices you use to the internet.
It does so by determining the most efficient pathway for data to reach its intended destination. But it is a machine after all, and machines can sometimes malfunction.
It’s also possible that your router is simply old and can’t keep up with your provider's latest updates.
Modem Issues
The modem is responsible gets its name from its functions, modulator and demodulator.
It’s responsible for converting the digital signals that your devices transmit to analog signals that the internet works on.
By doing so, it allows data to be transferred between itself and the internet. Like your router, it can also malfunction or simply become outdated.
Stuck Between Renting or Buying Your Internet Modem?
Wi-Fi Signal Interference or Weak Signal
Your internet network needs to be able to seamlessly receive and transmit signals from and to the devices being used. Interference with internet signals can cause slow speeds or disconnections. This interference can be due to nearby networks, appliances, thick walls, or physical distance.
Internet Service Provider (ISP) Issues
Sometimes the issue may not be at your end; it could also be because of ISP problems. Some of these can include ISP outages, infrastructure issues, equipment problems, and regular maintenance.
Too Many Devices on the Network
When there are too many devices using the internet, it can lead to network congestion. This data overload can result in your router or modem malfunctioning or losing data, leading to bandwidth issues, slow speeds, disconnections, and even downright internet outages.
Wi-Fi Theft
When someone steals your Wi-Fi, that divides bandwidth and reduces your internet speed. In case it’s a hacker, it can also lead to sensitive information leaking, and your internet being traced to criminal activities.
Faulty Ethernet Cable or Loose Connections
Your ethernet cable connects your router to your modem, allowing the router to receive signals from the modem and transmit them to your devices. Sometimes it could be as simple as a loose cable, but other times it could be external or internal damage, which you might not be able to fix yourself.
Device or Operating System Issues
Your device has an operating system that communicates with hardware like your ethernet cable, adapter, router, and modem. How? Through software programs called drivers installed into this hardware.
Sometimes corrupted files or system updates can cause your operating system to experience compatibility and performance issues. Similarly, driver issues like outdated drivers can prevent communication between your device and the internet, resulting in disconnections.
DNS or IP Configuration Errors
DNS refers to the Domain Name System, and IP refers to the Internet Protocol. DNS is how your internet translates domain names, like www.gmail.com, into numerical IP addresses that devices use to find websites online.
IP is a set of rules that dictate how data is shared between networks. It helps devices communicate by addressing and directing data to the right address.
If either the DNS or IP is not configured correctly, your device won’t be able to connect to anything online, either dropping or entirely halting your connectivity.
Well, my friend, that about covers the causes, so let’s dive into the solutions you can take for each of them.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide: 7 Easy Steps on How to Fix Internet Disconnections
Let’s take a step-by-step look at some easy-to-implement solutions for each of the problems shared above.
Restart Your Modem and Router
Unplug the cable from your power source and plug it back in 2 to 3 minutes later for the modem and 30 seconds to 2 minutes later for the router.
Restart the modem first, as this helps it properly connect with your provider, making it easier for the router to connect with it.
Update Router Firmware
Most internet providers normally release updates to remove bugs, improve security, and performance.
Your devices automatically update themselves when they release, and you might want to check every now and then that they are.
Move Closer to Your Router or Reposition It
Use your device to identify when and where signals get weak and then asses how many physical barriers or electronics there are in that distance.
You then want to reposition your setup in such a way that avoids these barriers or electronics from interfering with the Wi-Fi signal.
Switch Wi-Fi Bands (2.4GHz vs 5GHz)
5GHz is right for you if you’re looking for uninterrupted signals and faster speeds.
2.4GHz is better if you’re far from the signal, as it has a higher range and can pass through walls.
Test With a Wired Connection
Connect an ethernet cable and check if it works better.
Ethernet is normally more reliable and consistent, especially with devices that need low latency and high bandwidth.
Reset Network Settings on Your Device
Old networks, mismatched security protocols, and corrupt Wi-Fi profiles can cause disconnections.
Resetting network settings removes any cached network data, such as saved Wi-Fi networks and passwords, and helps improve the connection.
Contact Your Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Contact your internet service provider when it’s out of your control.
They can check for issues in their network, or even help identify an issue on your end that you may have missed.
You can also be guided to solutions like upgrading your plan or hardware if necessary.
Picking up on the last point, it’s important to know when you need to consider upgrading your equipment or plan to save you from unnecessary expenses. The next section explores this.
When to Consider Upgrading Your Equipment or Plan
This eventually boils down to just two main reasons, which are:
- Old Router or Outdated Modem: If your router or modem is old and can’t keep up with updates, or keeps malfunctioning, you’ll need to get a newer model. You can either call your provider to get one or manually buy a third-party model compatible with your provider.
- Upgrade Internet Plan: It’s possible that the speed, bandwidth, and features in your current plan might no longer suit your evolving needs and lifestyle. For example, a growing number of users can result in slow speeds and disconnections. In that case, you might want to contact your provider to get another upgraded internet plan.
Final Thoughts
I’ve shared all you need to know about why your internet keeps disconnecting, from the major causes to practical and easy-to-try solutions. Whether it’s your router, modem, cables, signals, outages, or software and hardware issues, the tips I’ve provided can help you mitigate their effects on your internet quality.
While you can easily solve most of the problems above, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider when you feel it’s beyond your control, such as when you’re facing outages or for plan or equipment upgrades.
Putting these steps into action can help you and your family enjoy smoother, uninterrupted connectivity and prevent more pressing issues from arising.
FAQs
Can I update the router or modem software myself?
You can update the router software yourself, but for the modem, you’ll have to contact your provider.
Do Wi-Fi networks have a device limit?
It varies from router to router, but most routers today are able to support between 20 to 50 devices.
What kinds of devices interfere with the Wi-Fi signal?
There are many, but the most common ones include microwave ovens, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, wireless video cameras, and outdoor microwave links.
