How Often Do Routers Go Kaput?

[target2019]

Yes, the ps or transformer is a weak point. If you notice one getting really hot, it might be time to get a replacement.

Routers and ethernet cabling led to a very successful run with a small business client. Even after 15 years of handling their problems, they still insist on using the moonlighting electrician for the first attempt at network problems. Some of the troubleshooting and fixes he implements are a joy to behold.

[tmm99]

I have been replacing it every three to four years.

[mistershankly]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nords About 18 months ago I had a different problem-- a bad power transformer for our router. Bought a new transformer from Radio Shack, problem solved.

I concur with this solution. The transformer is a very common problem with router stability on consumer routers. If a transformer doesn't fix the problem and you want a bulletproof solution, you can upgrade to a semi-enterprise router from Sonicwall that will easily last you a decade. It's a bit more expensive than most off the shelf routers but it is solid.

Amazon.com: Tz 100 Network Security Appliance: Electronics

[easysurfer]

Well, looks like I spoke too soon. The error messages are happening again. Don't know why they seemed to clear up once I removed the switch.

In the meantime, I'm doing what any "lazy" person would do. Instead of troubleshooting or running out to get a new router, I unpluged to ethernet connection and now am connecting wirelessly.

[target2019]

If a computer plugged directly into the router with one known good patch cable works flawlessly, then you might have wiring problem (where you're going from one room to another). I think you said there are wall connections, or something like that. Just my first guess.

[easysurfer]

I have using two desktops. One in bedroom, one in living room. They are both connected to the router directly (the wall part is just that a wall separates the room, but I drilled a hole in the wall to feed the cable through).

If I get in the moood (maybe on a rainy day?) I may fiddle around with finding out the source of the prob. In the meantime, wireless is fine -- knock on wood!

[target2019]

There are a bunch of moving pieces in your problem. Equipment and cables do fail. If both cables were home-made it is possible they have bad connections. But the router could need an upgrade. Or the wired ports are degrading.

I know when I run into this type of problem I feel as if I must discover the cause. Once had the same problem you describe. Eventually found that it was the NIC in computer. It just wouldn't accept the cable and "click". Over time the weight of other cables would eventually jar it loose.

[easysurfer]

I ended up getting a new router today. My connection was still continuously dropping. With the new router, I had drops too, but after some poking around (after reading about some settings for my DSL modem), hopefully, it'll be stable. So far, so good.

I wonder if my old router was even bad or just some settings gettting messed up. In either case, now I got a Wireless N router instead of G and the speed I see and feel is faster.

[Nords]

Quote:

Originally Posted by easysurfer In either case, now I got a Wireless N router instead of G and the speed I see and feel is faster.

As my daughter says, "Welcome to the third millennium!"