Troubleshooting WiFi: Is Your Wireless Router At the End of Its Life?

Avoiding wireless router failure is crucial to maintain a stable and reliable internet connection.

AC3000 Wi-Fi 6 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Router

AC3000 Wi-Fi 6 Dual Band Wireless Gigabit Router

Here are some tips to prevent router failure and signs to watch for:

  1. Regular Firmware Updates:

    • Keep your router’s firmware up to date. Manufacturers release updates to address security issues, improve performance, and fix bugs. Check for firmware updates regularly.

  2. Proper Ventilation:

    • Ensure that your router is adequately ventilated. Routers can overheat, leading to performance issues or failure. Keep it in an open space and avoid stacking objects on top of it.

  3. Power Surge Protection:

    • Use surge protectors to safeguard your router from power surges. Lightning strikes and power fluctuations can damage electronic components.

  4. Secure Placement:

    • Place your router in a secure location to prevent physical damage or accidental falls. Avoid areas with high humidity, extreme temperatures, or exposure to direct sunlight.

  5. Quality Power Supply:

    • Use a high-quality power supply that meets the manufacturer’s specifications. A faulty power supply can contribute to router malfunctions.

  6. Password Protection:

    • Secure your router with a strong administrator password. This prevents unauthorized access, reducing the risk of malicious configurations or attacks.

  7. Manage Connected Devices:

    • Limit the number of connected devices to avoid overloading your router. Too many simultaneous connections can strain the router and lead to performance issues.

  8. Avoid Overworking:

    • Routers have limitations on the number of simultaneous connections and the amount of data they can handle. If you have a large network, consider using additional access points to distribute the load.

Signs of Wireless Router Failure:

  1. Intermittent Connectivity:

    • If your internet connection frequently drops or becomes unstable, it could be a sign of router failure. This can be due to hardware issues or a deteriorating connection.

  2. Slow Performance:

    • A significant decrease in internet speed may indicate a problem with your router. Check your internet speed using a wired connection to rule out issues with the ISP.

  3. Overheating:

    • Feel the router. If it’s unusually hot to the touch, it might be overheating. Ensure proper ventilation and consider adding a cooling fan if necessary.

  4. Unresponsive Admin Interface:

    • If you are unable to access your router’s admin interface or experience frequent timeouts, it could be a sign of internal issues.

  5. Hardware LED Lights:

    • Pay attention to the router’s LED lights. If they are behaving abnormally or if certain lights are not illuminated as expected, it could indicate hardware problems.

  6. Strange Noises:

    • Routers are generally silent. If you hear unusual sounds like buzzing or clicking, it might be a sign of internal hardware issues.

If you notice any of these signs, consider troubleshooting or seek professional assistance to determine whether your router is failing and needs replacement or repair. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help prolong the life of your wireless router and ensure a consistent and reliable internet connection.

It is sometimes hard to business owners to realize that their technology components have a lifespan. Sometimes these tools will wear out before they become obsolete. Given the variables, it is not possible to determine when and if a piece of equipment will fail, but for some components, there are warning signs that failure is imminent.

A leading cause of wireless router failure, for example, is that a business cut corners by purchasing a consumer-grade router, rather than commercial-grade equipment. Specifically, heat stress can destroy WiFi components. Consumer-grade hardware runs too hot and in a commercial setting, its ventilation requirements relative to air circulation will not be met. Even some commercial-grade components will experience premature failure if operated in full sun, in a dusty environment, or in a setting where there is continuous vibration.

How to Avoid Router Failure

Troubleshooting WiFi components, for example, is relatively easy to perform. If your network has experienced outages due to an overheated router, reset the router and modem. If the issue returns after a few hours run-time, then your router is either inadequate for the network it now serves, or it is near the end of its working lifetime.

Over the course of troubleshooting WiFi components, you may have discovered how-to instructions that are in fact, not much more than band-aid fixes. The wireless professionals at GNS Wireless recommend that you do not waste time trying to prolong the service life of your router. Your network cannot afford downtime, so at the first sign of issues with your router, contact our team to help determine the best replacement for your network and your business. We’re here to help at (877) 209-5152.

You’ve seen those commercials on TV where everyone in the family wants to use the Internet signal at the same time?

Dad is finishing up some office work, mom is checking her emails, their daughter is texting her boyfriend, and their son is playing video games. Or, more likely, everyone is trying to use the internet at the same time, with mixed results. This is often the issue for businesses as well, especially those in office complexes. Their lease may provide WiFi service, however at peak usage periods, with every business in the building accessing the internet at the same time, how effective can it be? Can a wireless router be overloaded?

wireless router

The two major components of any wireless system are its router and modem. These work together to disperse the network’s internet signal to every user. If more users than the system can accommodate attempt to access it at the same time, the wireless and wired network routers can become overloaded. Here are some simple tests that may be performed to determine if a slow internet is a single event or a sign that it is time to upgrade to a router that can handle increased bandwidth. Enlist your staffers for a quick test. Turn on every device that uses the internet at the same time, and check load times for an internet search. This will help determine the router’s overall capacity. A slow and sluggish load time response most likely indicates router overload.

If your router passes the ‘everybody into the boat’ test for a general search, try live streaming next. If you encounter choppy images and long buffering times, you guessed it, your wireless router is overloaded. Just in case both of these tests proved inconclusive, the issue could be caused at a different time of day.

Try keeping a log of internet outages, slow load times, and chopping streaming experiences for a week or two. You may begin to notice a pattern in your router’s signal, that it is weaker at certain times of the day, for example. Most often these tests and outage logs indicate the need for an upgraded wireless router. To ensure that your business does not encounter these difficulties for the foreseeable future, speak to our knowledgeable staff at GNS Wireless.

We’re here to assist you to purchase just the right equipment for your business. Give us a call today at (877) 209-5152.

Let’s explore the best wireless bridge networks available and understand when each shines, ensuring you make the right choice for your specific needs.

60 GHz PTP Wireless Backhaul

In the past, wired networks expanded by simply stringing together additional lengths of cable to hook up additional desktops, Internet TVs in conference rooms, media players, and other business tools. Today, smartphones, tablets, and laptops are used during business meetings and by staffers on the go. The best way to resolve this network expansion issue for a wired network is by first upgrading to a wireless bridge network. Wireless networks are easily scalable and will continue to grow as your business grows. When the time comes there may be further expanded at a relatively low cost.

Understanding Wireless Bridge Networks:

What is a Wireless Bridge?

A wireless bridge acts as a link between two separate networks, providing a seamless and wireless extension of connectivity. This technology is ideal for scenarios where running physical cables is impractical or impossible.

The Top Contenders: Best Wireless Bridge Networks

1. GNS-5560 60 GHz

  • Ideal For: Point-to-Point Connections at short range
  • Why It Shines: The 60 GHz is a powerhouse for establishing point-to-point connections over short distances. Perfect for connecting two separate buildings or locations, it offers high throughput and reliability.

2. GNS-1155AC 5 GHz:

  • Ideal For: Harsh Environments, Long Range
  • Why It Shines: Designed for outdoor use, the GNS-1155AC is weatherproof and delivers a stable connection over extended ranges. Perfect for surveillance systems, it ensures connectivity in challenging environments.

3. Cisco Aironet 1560 Series:

  • Ideal For: Scalable Enterprise Solutions
  • Why It Shines: The Cisco Aironet 1560 Series is built for scalability, making it an excellent choice for large enterprises. Its robust features and high performance make it suitable for demanding corporate networks.

4. MikroTik Wireless Wire:

  • Ideal For: Gigabit Wireless Connectivity
  • Why It Shines: If you need gigabit-speed wireless connectivity, the MikroTik Wireless Wire is a top choice. It’s perfect for scenarios where wired connections are not feasible but high-speed data transfer is a must.

Choosing the Right Wireless Bridge Network for Your Needs:

1. Distance and Range:

  • For long-distance connections between two points, make sure you have clear, unobstructed line of sight.

2. Outdoor or Harsh Environments:

  • If your network needs extend to outdoor areas, the 5 GHz offers long range, and the 60 GHz offers high capacity.

3. Scalability and Enterprise Solutions:

  • For large-scale corporate networks, the Cisco Aironet 1560 Series ensures scalability and high performance.

Where to Find Your Ideal Wireless Bridge Network:

Ready to enhance your connectivity with the best wireless bridge network? Explore the full range of options at GNS Wireless and discover the perfect solution for your specific needs. Invest in seamless connectivity that adapts to your unique requirements and propels your network into the future.

In conclusion, the best wireless bridge network is the one that aligns with your specific needs. Whether it’s long-distance connections, outdoor environments, or enterprise scalability, there’s a wireless bridge solution designed to elevate your connectivity. Make the smart choice – choose the right wireless bridge network for your scenario and unlock the full potential of seamless connectivity.

One of the most common questions we are asked is: “How do I extend the range of my wireless network?.  Although there are many different ways to get better range from your Wi-Fi router or access point, GNS Wireless will detail below some of the most effecient ways to get better Wi-Fi signal.

Upgrade to a higher gain antenna:  Although this seems like the most common way to get better wireless network range, you want to make sure you use the correct antenna.  By using a higher gain antenna you can extend your wireless signal range, but it depends on what type of transmit power your router/access point has, where you are installing the antenna, and long of a coaxial cable you need to install it correctly. Some things to consider when using a higher gain antenna include potential loss of vertical signal coverage. Typically when you increase the gain on an antenna the RF gain pattern becomes more focused and produces a narrower horizontal beam.   Installing a high gain omni-directional antenna on a hill, and you will certainly have a dead spot underneath.  For campgrounds, marinas, and RV parks, one of the most popular hotspot packages we sell, is the GNS-1485.  This includes a sectorized panel antenna which helps broadcast a strong signal within a 120-180 degree area, and penetrates trees and RV’s with ease.  You can point the antenan exactly where you need the signal and with minimal effort your wireless network will gain new life.  Read more about our pre-packaged hotspot setups here.

Install a WiFi amplifier: By adding a Wi-Fi amplifier to your wireless router, or access point you can boost your wireless signal and increase wireless network range. GNS Wireless sells pre-packaged WiFi booster kits that are available for purchase by anyone in the United States or Canada without the need for a special FCC license.   These kits are license free, and operate in the 2.4GHz, or 5GHz range.  They typically include everything you need to extend the range of your network.  The most popular scenerios are campground WiFi, Marina Wireless Networks, and RV Park Hotspot setups.  These kits offer easy set up and strong signal extension and coverage capabilities.   GNS Wireless offers technical support, pre-configuration services, and custom programming to all your equipment.  Additionally we sell individual RF amplifiers for export, military and FCC licensed users supporting frequencies ranging from 900 MHz to 5.8 GHz.

Upgrade to 802.11N or 802.11AC:  To put it simply, if you are still using the older 802.11B (11Mbps), or 802.11G (54Mbps), it is time to upgrade.  The newer 802.11N, and 802.11AC offer both increased range, and reliability for your ongoing wireless network.  If you are currently using older 802.11 standard access points and wireless adapters, consider upgrading to the latest IEEE standards, 802.11n or 802.11ac. These newer standards offer better range and speed than older standards products.

Use a higher power Access Point:  A typical residential Wi-Fi router or Access Point provides about 30mW to 100mW of transmit power.  When upgrading to a higher power access point or router you can boost your wireless signal resulting in extended coverage.  GNS Wireless offers outdoor access points with up to 1000mW of transmit power.  When combined with the correct panel or omni-directional antenna, your wireless network becomes more stable, and can penetrate near by obstructions such as trees in a campground or RV Park.

GNS Wireless can assist in product selection, support and installation as well as any questions you may have regarding increasing the range of your wireless network.  For questions, or for a free consultation, please contact us at (877) 209-5152, or send an email to support@gnswireless.com.