Restarting your router isn’t just a traditional solution for internet slowdowns; it can also help improve performance and enhance network security. According to a report published by BGR, leaving the router running for long periods without a restart may lead to the accumulation of technical and security issues over time.

Restarting your router could help combat malware

Earlier in 2026, American cybersecurity agencies managed to disable an expanding network of compromised home routers that were used as part of a Botnet linked to intelligence. The compromised devices were exploited for stealing information such as login credentials and intercepting internet traffic which may include sensitive data, as well as targeting other networks and devices including government, military, and critical infrastructure networks.

Following this, the US National Security Agency (NSA) warned users about the importance of restarting routers. A restart can help disable or remove some temporary malware and reset connections that attackers might exploit. However, a restart is not a magic solution; it doesn’t remove all types of malware nor does it fix vulnerabilities in the router's firmware.

Why does the internet improve after restarting the router?

Restarting a router is similar to restarting a computer, as it clears some temporary data and restarts security processes and protocols. It also resets a number of connections. The process can also reorganize the router’s connection to the internet and re-select the Wi-Fi network channel, which may help eliminate problems with slow speeds or connectivity issues. For this reason, restarting both the router and modem together can be a useful step when facing connectivity problems. The main downside is that the internet will temporarily stop while the devices are being restarted and reconnected.

How often should you restart your router?

The US National Security Agency recommends restarting routers at least once a month, but users can choose to restart them more frequently, whether weekly or even daily, as long as it is done regularly. Many modern routers offer an option for automatic restarts, so the device can be set to restart during low-use hours, such as early in the morning when household members are asleep.

Don't forget to update your router's Firmware

Besides restarting, it is important to activate the automatic Firmware update feature if the router supports it. This allows the device to search for updates from the manufacturer and download and install them automatically. These updates may include security patches, bug fixes, performance improvements, and software corrections. Here’s an important point: If the router is so old that it no longer receives security updates or does not support automatic updates, replacing it with a newer model might be the safest option. Restarting an old router that doesn't receive security updates won't fix the vulnerabilities in its software.

Restart is not Factory Reset

There is an important difference between Restart/Reboot and Factory Reset. A restart means turning off the router and turning it back on, while keeping the settings and data stored on it. A factory reset, however, returns the device to its original state as when it was first taken out of the box. When performing a Factory Reset, you will lose your custom settings, including the Wi-Fi network name, local network settings, password, and any other settings that you have made yourself.
Therefore, do not resort to factory reset just because the internet is slow. It's better to try restarting first. If the problem persists, consider a factory reset after making sure to back up important network settings.