Why does my WiFi keep dropping every 30 minutes?
My home WiFi drops connection every 20-30 minutes like clockwork. All my devices do it — phone, laptop, smart TV. I have to unplug and replug the router every time. I've tried restarting it, updating firmware, and moving it to a different spot. My ISP says it's not their problem. What else can I try?
1 Answer(s)
A drop every 20-30 minutes like clockwork almost always means one of three things:
1. Router overheating (most likely). Touch your router — is it hot? Routers overheat and crash on a cycle. Put it on a hard surface with airflow, not in a cabinet. A $15 USB fan aimed at it can fix this instantly.
2. DHCP lease expiring. Your router assigns IP addresses with a \"lease\" time. If it's set too short, devices get disconnected. Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1) and set DHCP lease time to 24 hours or \"always.\"
3. Channel interference. If you live in an apartment, your neighbors' WiFi is fighting yours. Log into your router and switch from \"Auto\" channel to a specific one. Use a free app like WiFi Analyzer to find the least crowded channel.
If nothing works: Your router might be dying. 8-year-old routers start doing this. A decent new router (TP-Link Archer AX50, $80) will solve everything. Don't buy the one your ISP gave you — those are garbage.