Should You Upgrade Your Modem or Router?

Routers and modems age out quickly. If your hardware is 4–5 years old, an upgrade can unlock higher speeds.

Signs you should upgrade

  • Speed tests never reach your plan speed.
  • Frequent disconnects or slowdowns.
  • No support for modern Wi‑Fi standards.

Modem vs router

  • Modem connects to ISP. Router shares the connection.
  • You may need one or both depending on the bottleneck.

Upgrade tips

  • Check ISP compatibility lists.
  • Consider Wi‑Fi 6 or mesh for better coverage.
Run a Speed Test

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Quick Answers

What is the most common mistake?

Relying on a single test result or ignoring Wi‑Fi conditions is the most common mistake.