What to Do if Your Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting

One of the most popular Wi-Fi questions after “What’s the Wi-Fi password?” is probably “What’s wrong with the Wi-Fi?” A weak Wi-Fi signal can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix, and can certainly interrupt your working day, not to mention your downtime.

In this article, we’ll provide a few fixes that’ll hopefully get your signal strong and your sanity restored.

Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting and How to Fix It

Wi-Fi problems can stem from any number of factors: the internet provider, the router, or even the device you’re currently using. We’re going to provide a few general fixes below to help you troubleshoot.

Restart Your Modem and Device

First things first, and it should be pretty obvious. If you’re struggling to connect, first restart your router and then your smart device or PC. Memory can become erratic, and hardware that’s been running too long can act a little strangely. “Turning it off and on again” is a cliché, but sometimes it works.

Check for Network Outages

Perhaps your service provider is experiencing wider connectivity problems, or maybe the internet coverage in your area is affected by weather or construction. Check with residents’ groups and, if possible, contact your ISP to check.

Too Many Users

Any user of a public Wi-Fi network will tell you how slow things are. Too many users can choke the bandwidth and cause a drop or complete loss of connectivity. Either upgrade your plan if you need faster internet, or cut down on the number of devices accessing your network.

Update Router Firmware

Routers are like printers; you may not think they need firmware updates, but oh, they do. In addition to bug fixes and security updates, newer firmware can interface better with connected devices and their operating systems. You can update your router’s firmware through any connected device by using a web browser app.

Troubleshoot Your Device

If you suspect a particular device has connectivity troubles, then try using the built-in troubleshooter to resolve things. For example, right-clicking the Network icon in the system tray of Windows allows users to run the Troubleshooter to detect the specific Wi-Fi problem. If nothing else, it’ll reset your machine’s Wi-Fi, which might help.

Reset Your Network

If you’re using your PC, you can also reset your network on your computer. Here’s how:

Step 1. Open Settings (Win + I) and navigate to “Network & Internet.”

Step 2. Navigate down to “Network Reset” and click the option.

Step 3. Click “Reset Now.” Your PC’s network will be reset once you restart your machine.

Out of Range

Are you trying to access the router in your lounge from all the way from your bedroom? Some routers aren’t very powerful at longer ranges, and their signal can get spotty the further you are from the router. You can move it to a more central place in your house or consider buying a Wi-Fi range extender or two to place around the house.

Radio Interference

Your router may not be the only thing sending signals. Wi-Fi signals, particularly 2.4 GHz frequencies, often conflict with radio waves, phone signals, and other appliances. If possible, try to use the 5Ghz option on your router or bring your device closer.

It’s also important that your router is far away from other strong electronic devices and free from as many physical obstructions as possible for the best possible output.