Fix WiFi That Keeps Disconnecting

Most WiFi drops are caused by interference, router overload, or outdated drivers — not your internet plan. Work through these fixes from quickest to most thorough.

Immediate Fixes (0-5 minutes)

1. Restart your router and modem: Unplug both for 30 seconds, plug modem first, wait 2 minutes, then router. This clears temporary glitches and IP conflicts.
2. Move closer to the router: If disconnects stop when you're near the router, the issue is range/interference, not hardware failure.
3. Switch WiFi bands: If on 2.4GHz, try 5GHz (less interference, shorter range). If on 5GHz and far from router, try 2.4GHz (longer range, more congestion).

Software Fixes (5-15 minutes)

1. Update network drivers: Windows: Device Manager → Network adapters → right-click your WiFi adapter → Update driver. Mac: System Settings → General → Software Update.
2. Forget and reconnect to network: Windows: Settings → Network → WiFi → Manage known networks → Forget. Mac: System Settings → Network → WiFi → Advanced → Remove network. Then reconnect and re-enter password.
3. Disable power saving for WiFi adapter (Windows): Device Manager → Network adapters → right-click WiFi adapter → Properties → Power Management → uncheck 'Allow computer to turn off this device to save power.'

Router-Level Fixes (10-20 minutes)

1. Change WiFi channel: Log into router (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) → Wireless settings → Channel. For 2.4GHz, try channels 1, 6, or 11 (non-overlapping). For 5GHz, use auto or channels 36-48.
2. Update router firmware: Router admin panel → Firmware/System → Check for updates. Outdated firmware causes random drops.
3. Reduce connected devices: Too many devices (15+) can overload budget routers. Disconnect unused IoT devices, old phones, smart TVs on standby.

When to Upgrade Hardware

If your router is 5+ years old, WiFi 5 (802.11ac) or older, or disconnects persist after all fixes, it's time for a WiFi 6 router. Modern routers handle more devices and interference better.

Pro tip: Use a WiFi analyzer app (free: WiFi Analyzer for Android, NetSpot for Windows/Mac) to see which channels your neighbors are using — pick the least crowded one. If 10+ networks overlap on your channel, that's your problem.