Modems are notorious for creating frustrating and sometimes hard to troubleshoot internet connectivity problems. If your internet is suddenly unreliable, there is a good chance that it is your modem causing the problem no matter how old it is. Show
But, how long do modems last? Most people find that their modem lasts between 2 and 5 years, but how long a modem lasts will depend on the quality of the modem you invest in, changes in technology during that time, and how well you take care of it. So if your modem is even three years old and you’re experiencing issues with it, it could be time for a replacement. Many people choose to rent modems because their internet service provider will replace the modem when it goes bad. Why Modems Go BadMost people find that their modem lasts between 2 and 5 years, but how can that be? It hardly seems possible that an expensive electronic like a modem could wear out so quickly when all it does it sit there, right? Well, it turns out there are several compelling reasons that a modem wears out:
How to Make Your Modem Last Longersource: TeckinWhile some of the causes for modem failure listed above are unpreventable, there are some steps you can take to make sure your modem lasts longer. Use a Surge ProtectorThis is probably the most important thing you can do to protect your modem. Surge protectors limit the amount of voltage that can flow to your modem. When the voltage spikes, it either blocks the voltage or shorts out to ground. Either way, it just saved your modem’s electronic components from getting fried. Place Your Modem Someplace SafeUnfortunately, there are some limits to where you can keep your modem because it has to be close to both a power outlet and a cable, phone, or fiber optic source, but you should do your best to make sure the following guidelines are met:
Protect Your Data LineDuring a storm, your cable or DSL line is also susceptible to surges in power. There are several ways that your cable or phone company protects you against these surges, but you can add another layer of protection with a DSL or coaxial surge protection. The APC Surge Protector with Telephone, DLS, and Coaxial Protection offers everything you need in one surge protector. Consider Turning It Off at NightWhether or not turning your modem off at night will actually help extend its life is arguable. It may help reduce wear and tear, but turning electrical equipment on and off creates wear and tear itself. Some advise it, and others think it is a waste of time, but not likely to hurt your modem in any way. However, at the very least, you’ll be reducing the amount of electricity you consume when you’re sleeping, and it can help you get into the habit of disconnecting before bed, which could lead to a better night’s sleep.
Signs that You Need to Replace Your ModemThe trouble with figuring out if there is something wrong with your modem is that the signs of a bad modem can also be signs that there are other issues with your internet connection. For example, there could be issues with the line coming into your house or an issue with your computer’s connection to the internet. These clearly wouldn’t require you to replace the modem. However, if your modem is bad or is on the way to going bad, here is what you can expect:
What to do if Your Modem isn’t WorkingIn this day and age, when your internet isn’t working, it is about as catastrophic as not having electricity, which basically means you are about to be extremely inconvenienced. Before calling your service provider, there are some basic things you can check.
Hopefully, one of these things fixed your internet connectivity woes, but if not, you should call your internet service provider as they have the best methods of troubleshooting problems with your internet. They may recommend replacing your modem, but they could find that the issue is something else entirely. Should You Replace Your Modem?If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Well, when it comes to internet technology, this doesn’t always hold true. Certainly, if you are satisfied with your modem’s performance and your internet speed, you don’t need to replace your modem until it stops working properly. But, technology often changes faster than equipment stops working. There is a good chance that if you’ve had your modem for more than five years, you aren’t getting the speed you could be with a new modem. We recommend upgrading your modem every 3 to 5 years because of this. How do I know if my modem needs replacing?How do you know if you need a new modem?. You can't connect to the internet.. Your Internet connection randomly drops out.. You frequently have to reset or restart your modem.. Your streaming is lagging.. Your internet speeds are inconsistent.. Your modem's indicator light remains unlit.. Your modem runs constantly hot.. Should I replace my 10 year old modem?The Average Lifespan of a Modem
A modem usually lasts between four to seven years, which is more than you might expect. It's also longer than what most information online will tell you to wait before replacing it. Even your ISP might recommend changing your modem before you really need to.
How do I know if my modem is going bad?5 Warning Signs Your Cable Modem is Dying. Connection indicator lights have turned off even if you can still surf the web.. Data transfers/downloads are slow.. The connection speeds are slow.. The modem is making a lot of loud or weird noises.. The modem turns off or stops functioning.. When should I change my WiIn general, experts recommend upgrading your router at least every five years. Make that every two to three years if you use lots of smart home gadgets, or if you make a regular habit of buying the latest laptops, phones and other primary Wi-Fi devices.
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