Are you dealing with dropped connections or slow internet speeds that make online tasks frustrating? A router plays a vital role in your home’s internet setup, but it may not always be the source of the problem. If slow speeds and unreliable internet have you pulling your hair out, it might be time to replace your router. A router is the heart of your home internet setup, and outdated equipment can hold you back from enjoying everything Quantum Fiber has to offer. With the arrival of WiFi 7 (the latest wireless standard), upgrading your router might be a game-changer, helping ensure faster speeds, greater reliability, and seamless connectivity for all your devices.
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When to replace your router
Replacing your router isn’t always the first solution to internet issues, but there are scenarios where it becomes necessary.
Here’s how to know when it’s time for an upgrade:
Your router is more than two to five years old
Older routers may not support the latest WiFi standards or deliver the speeds required for modern internet demands. Replacing your router every two to five years helps keep your network fast and reliable.
You’re not using WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 technology
WiFi 6 and WiFi 7 are the most current wireless standards, offering faster speeds, better coverage, and the ability to handle more connected devices than previous wireless standards. If your router doesn’t support either, you’re missing out on these advancements. However, if you’re currently using WiFi 6, it remains a viable and high-performing option for most households, with excellent capabilities for streaming, gaming, and multi-device support. Upgrading to WiFi 7 can provide better improvements, especially for larger households or tech-heavy environments.
Your devices frequently disconnect
Persistent connection problems might indicate your router is struggling to keep up. Upgrading to a new router might help improve stability.
Troubleshooting before replacing your router
Before replacing your router, consider troubleshooting some common issues that might be causing your internet problems:
Check your router’s placement
Where your router is located can make a big difference. Place it in a central, elevated location in your home, away from walls and appliances that can interfere with the signal.
Secure your network
An unsecured network can slow down your internet if neighbors or unauthorized users are piggybacking on your WiFi. Protect your connection by setting a strong password.
Reboot your router
Sometimes, all your router needs is a fresh start. Unplug it for about 30 seconds and plug it back in to reset the system.
Evaluate your internet plan
If your household has many devices streaming or gaming simultaneously, your current internet plan might not have enough bandwidth to support the activity. Quantum Fiber offers a range of speeds to match your needs: up to 200 Mbps (megabits per second), up to 500 Mbps, and up to 940 Mbps for most households, with multi-gig speeds available in select areas—of up to 2 Gig, up to 3 Gig, and even up to 8 Gig. Upgrading to a higher-speed plan can help ensure smooth performance for every device in your home.
Just as you evaluate the router, and the internet plan, consider the age of your connected clients. Older devices are limited to performance of the prior generation WiFi standard in both throughput, and security. While older generation can be supported, overall bringing your client devices into newer generations, WiFi 6 and WiFi 7, can provide improvement efficiencies to the entire network with added improvement on security to each.
How to replace your router
If troubleshooting reveals that a replacement is necessary, here’s how to transition smoothly to a new router:
Choose the right router
Select a router that supports WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 technology to help ensure compatibility with high-speed internet from Quantum Fiber. The 360 WiFi® system is designed to enhance connectivity throughout your home.
Set up your new router
- Place your router in an optimal location: Position it centrally and away from obstacles like walls or appliances that can block the signal.
- Connect to power and your network: Plug in your router, power it on, and follow setup instructions using the Quantum Fiber app.
- Secure your network: Update the default network name and password for improved security.
Connect your devices
Reconnect all your devices to the new network through WiFi setup or ethernet. With 360 WiFi from Quantum Fiber, the WiFi network enables reduced network latency and advanced throughput that may reduce the need to rely on ethernet connectivity for advanced applications. Ethernet remains an option for any connections that you need to support
Benefits of WiFi 7 with Quantum Fiber
Upgrading to a WiFi 7-capable router brings many advantages, especially when paired with Quantum Fiber advanced internet services:
- Faster speeds: Enjoy smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing with cutting-edge speeds.
- Better coverage: WiFi 7 provides enhanced range, helping eliminate dead zones in your home.
- More connected devices: Support for over 100 devices help ensures your smart home stays online.
- Less congestion: WiFi7 makes more efficient use of the WiFi signal supporting all client needs enabling better throughput result in device dense environments.
- Industry-leading technology: Quantum Fiber is the first in the industry to offer a Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7™ device, setting the standard for future-proof internet solutions and helping ensure great performance and reliability.
- Industry-leading technology: Quantum Fiber is the first in the industry to offer a Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7™ device. We developed the WiFi 7 device to help ensure that it supports our speed tiers of up to 8 Gig, setting the standard for future-proof internet solutions and helping ensure great performance, security and reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my own router with Quantum Fiber?
Yes, you can use your own router. However, for the best experience, consider using the 360 WiFi system, which is optimized for seamless connectivity.
What should I do with my old router?
Recycle your old router responsibly. Many electronics stores and recycling programs accept routers. Avoid throwing it away to reduce electronic waste.
How often should I replace my router?
Experts recommend upgrading every two to five years, especially if your current router doesn’t support new WiFi standards or struggles with multiple devices.
Find the right solution for your connectivity needs
A reliable router is essential for enjoying everything Quantum Fiber offers, from lightning-fast speeds to smooth streaming and gaming experiences. Determining whether you need a new router doesn’t have to be overwhelming—by troubleshooting placement, security, and performance first, you can better understand your network’s needs. If replacing your router is necessary, upgrading to a WiFi 6 or WiFi 7-compatible model will help ensure better connectivity and future-proof your home.
New Quantum Fiber customers receive a Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 7™ device, helping ensure you’re equipped with the latest technology right from the start. If you’re a current Quantum Fiber customer experiencing issues with your router or WiFi, chat live with our Quantum Fiber Success Team. We’ll help troubleshoot and determine the best solution for your situation, so you can get back to enjoying reliable and fast internet in no time.
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