Wi-Fi Keeps Disconnecting

1. 1

   Work out who is affected

   If every device loses internet at once but still shows Wi-Fi bars, the connection from your provider is dropping — check the modem's status lights and your provider's outage page. If only one device drops, skip to the device steps below.

2. 2

   Move and raise the router

   Routers work best high up, in the open, and central to the home. Inside a cabinet, behind a TV, or on the floor next to a metal radiator, range can fall dramatically. Keep it away from microwaves, cordless phone bases, and fish tanks.

3. 3

   Forget and rejoin the network (single device)

   On the device that keeps dropping, "forget" the Wi-Fi network and reconnect with the password. This clears stale settings. Also turn off any VPN temporarily to see if it is the cause.

4. 4

   Turn off aggressive power saving

   Some laptops turn the Wi-Fi adapter down to save power. On Windows, Device Manager → Network adapters → your Wi-Fi adapter → Properties → Power Management, untick "Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power".

5. 5

   Update router firmware

   Log into your router's app or admin page (the address is usually printed on a sticker on the router) and check for firmware updates. Many stability bugs are fixed this way.

6. 6

   Change the channel or band

   In crowded apartment buildings, neighbouring networks on the same channel cause dropouts. Most routers have an "auto" channel setting; if not, try channels 1, 6, or 11 on 2.4 GHz. Use 5 GHz for devices close to the router — it is faster and less crowded, though shorter range.

7. 7

   Fix dead zones properly

   If the problem is distance, a mesh Wi-Fi system or a wired access point works far better than a cheap plug-in extender, which often halves speed and creates a second network name that devices cling to.

Platform notes

Stop it happening again

• Restart the router monthly, or schedule automatic restarts if it supports it.
• Keep firmware updated.
• Use a wired connection for fixed devices like TVs and desktops where practical.

When to get professional help

If the modem's internet light keeps going out, call your internet provider — the problem is on the line, not your Wi-Fi. Ask them to check signal levels to your home.

This is general troubleshooting information for home users. Menus and settings differ between device models and software versions. Back up important data before making changes, and contact the manufacturer or an authorised repair provider for hardware faults or anything under warranty.