Before you start
- Access to your router and modem
Method 1 Identify what is dropping
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Step 1: One device or all?
If only one device drops, focus on that device (driver, power saving). If all do, it’s the router, modem or line.
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Step 2: Wi-Fi or internet?
If your device stays connected to Wi-Fi but websites stop loading, the internet link dropped. If the Wi-Fi icon disappears, the Wi-Fi dropped.
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Step 3: Watch the modem lights
When it happens, check the modem’s Internet/Online/DSL light. If it blinks or turns red, the problem is between you and your provider.
Method 2 Fix home equipment
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Step 1: Check cables
Reseat every cable: power, phone/coax/fibre and Ethernet. Replace damaged ones. Avoid long phone extension leads on DSL.
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Step 2: Cool the router
Routers in cupboards or near heat can overheat and restart. Give them space.
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Step 3: Update firmware
Firmware bugs commonly cause drops.
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Step 4: Test with Ethernet
If a cabled PC stays online while Wi-Fi drops, the issue is Wi-Fi (interference, channel, range).
Method 3 Fix the device (if only one drops)
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Step 1: Windows power saving
In Device Manager > Network adapters, open the Wi-Fi adapter > Power Management and untick Allow the computer to turn off this device.
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Step 2: Update the driver
Install the latest Wi-Fi driver from your PC maker or Intel/Realtek/MediaTek.
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Step 3: Forget and rejoin
Remove the saved network and reconnect.
Method 4 Get your provider to fix the line
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Step 1: Log the drops
Note times and how long each drop lasts. Router logs (System Log) often show “WAN down” events.
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Step 2: Run their line test
Many providers have a line test in their app or website.
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Step 3: Call support
Give them the log. Repeated drops with good home equipment usually mean a line fault they must repair.
Troubleshooting
Drops happen at the same time every day
Look for scheduled router reboots, a neighbour’s device or appliance switching on, or heavy usage peaks.
Drops when the microwave is on
Microwaves interfere with 2.4 GHz. Use 5 GHz or move the router away.
Frequently asked questions
Can a bad Ethernet cable cause drops?
Yes. Damaged cables and loose connectors are a common cause.
Should I replace my router?
If drops continue after a firmware update and the line tests fine, an old or faulty router is likely.
Summary
Work out whether it’s Wi-Fi, a single device or the internet line. Fix cables, heat, firmware and power-saving settings at home, and log drops to get your provider to fix the line.
