Engadget: End-of-Life Firmware and Persistent Wi-Fi Failures Signal It May Be Time to Replace a Router

Engadget reported that regular firmware updates keep router software current and are especially important because the router is the gateway to the internet and to every other device on the network. Once support ends, newly discovered vulnerabilities will not receive fixes; the router may still connect, but it can carry an unpatched security hole. The report says end-of-life status is not always obvious. For ISP-issued routers, the provider will likely cycle them out before that point, and customers should check with the company. For self-installed routers, owners should find the model number and hardware revision on the label and search the manufacturer's website. Some manufacturers, including ASUS, maintain searchable end-of-life product lists. If a device appears on such a list, Engadget says it may be time to swap it out.

Sometimes no clear answer exists. A last firmware release that dates back several years is a sign the device may be out of date, though it does not always mean updates have stopped. Owners who are unsure can contact the manufacturer to ask whether the router remains eligible for updates and when support will end. Engadget also advises checking the router's app or administration page, often under system or administration sections, and installing any available updates without delay.

Persistent disconnections and slow speeds are the other main warning signs. Engadget described a router failing in stages: devices with strong signal began disconnecting randomly, the router periodically stopped transmitting and froze until a power cycle, and eventually it stopped powering up. The report says not every router will follow that pattern, but such symptoms warrant investigation. Disconnections can stem from signal interference, which may be addressed by moving the router or changing channels, or from a single device on the network.

Slow speeds are easier to diagnose. Engadget recommends connecting a PC or laptop to the router by Ethernet and running a speed test. If the wired result is stable and consistent, the internet service is unlikely to be the problem. If Ethernet performs well but a Wi-Fi test repeats the slower speeds, the wireless connection is at fault. Router placement matters; a large wall or obstructions can reduce signal strength, and coverage may be poor in distant rooms. In those cases, owners may need a Wi-Fi extender or repeater, or an upgrade to a full mesh system. The report also says the fastest Wi-Fi network cannot compensate for a home connection that delivers only 1Mbps download and upload speeds, and owners can ask their ISP to investigate.