If you’re like most people, you probably take your router for granted. You turn it on and off as needed, and that’s about it. But what if your router suddenly stopped working? What would you do?
Often, routers malfunction due to power issues. And usually, the fix is as simple as unplugging the router, waiting a few seconds, and then plugging it back in. If it doesn’t work, you might need to upgrade the firmware, reset the router to factory defaults, or check the power supply and the power adapter.
Let’s take a look at how to repair router no power using several methods. Also, we’ll share with you some tips on how to prevent this from happening in the future. Let’s get started.
How To Repair Router No Power?
Your router can stop turning on due to various power issues. If the router is not receiving enough power, it won’t function correctly. Here are several ways to fix this:
Step-1: Power Cycle Your Modem and Router
One of the simplest and most effective ways to fix power issues with your router is to power cycle it. Power cycling means unplugging the router from the power source, waiting a few seconds, and then plugging it back in.
To do this, unplug the power cord from the router and modem. Then, wait for about 30 seconds. After that, plug the power back into the modem, and then into the router.
Wait for a minute or two, and then check to see if the router is working. More often than not, this will fix the problem and your router will start working again.
Step-2: Check the Power Source
Before you do anything else, make sure that the router is properly plugged into a power outlet. If it’s not, plug it in and wait a few seconds to see if the router turns on.
Try connecting the router into a different outlet if it is connected to a power source but is still not receiving power. If that doesn’t work, try connecting it to an alternative power source, such as a surge protector or power strip. As much as possible, we recommend connecting the router to a separate outlet.
Step-3: Check the Power Adapter
If the router is connected to a power source and receiving power but still won’t turn on, the power adapter may be at issue. You can check the power adapter using a multimeter.
First, unplug the power adapter from the router. Then, set the multimeter to the DC voltage setting and touch the black and red leads to the exposed metal prongs on the end of the power adapter.
If the multimeter registers a reading less than the specified voltage on the power adapter, it means that the power adapter is not working correctly. In this case, you will need to replace the power adapter.
You can buy a new power adapter from the router’s manufacturer or an electronics store. It’s crucial to ensure the voltage and current rating are the same as the original power adapter and that it has a matching jack.
Step-4: Try the Paperclip Reset Method
If the new adapter doesn’t solve your problem you can use the paperclip trick to wake your router. However, it only works on routers with resetting holes.
- Hold the reset button down with a paper clip inserted through the router’s small back hole.
- Hold the reset button while pressing the power button.
- After the router’s lights flash, remove the paper clip from the hole.
If the router’s lights flash, your router should now turn on, although the network signal may still be unavailable. Your router will also reset its configurations, so you will need to reconfigure your network.
Step-5: Still Not Working? Try Firmware Update and Factory Reset
If the router is still not receiving power, or it’s receiving power after the reset but still not showing any signal after reconfiguring, you may need to update the firmware.
Updating the firmware can fix power issues caused by outdated software. If there are any new firmware updates available for your router model, check the manufacturer’s website. Then, install it according to the instructions.
You should then factory reset your router to fix further power issues. To do this, press and hold the reset button on your router for 30 seconds. Upon resetting the router, you’ll need to reconfigure your network after 10-15 minutes.
How to Prevent Power Issues with Your Router?
Having no power in the router means no internet, which can be frustrating. To prevent power issues with your router, we recommend the following tips:
Use a Surge Protector
A power surge can damage your router and cause it to stop working. To protect your router from power surges, we recommend using a surge protector. A surge protector will absorb any excess electricity and prevent it from damaging your router.
Keep the Router Cool
Heat can also damage your router and cause it to malfunction. To keep your router cool, we recommend placing it in a well-ventilated area. If possible, avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, such as a radiator or a fireplace.
Use Battery Backup
Routers are designed to run 24/7, and power outages can reduce their lifespan. To prevent power outages from damaging your router, we recommend using a battery backup.
A battery backup will keep your router running even if there’s a power outage. You can use a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) or an automated power bank as a battery backup for your router.
Unplug the Broadband Line During Thunderstorms
Thunderstorms can cause massive power surges that damage your router. To protect your router from power surges during thunderstorms, we recommend unplugging the broadband line from the router during a storm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we have answered some common questions related to repairing a router with no power.
How do I know if my router is not receiving power?
If your router is receiving power, the router’s lights will be lit. If the router’s lights are not lit, then the router is not receiving power. However, you may only see the power indicator light lit, even when the router receives power, as other lights may only turn on when the router is connected to the internet.
Why are there no lights on my router?
There could be several reasons why there are no lights on your router. The most common reason is that the router is not receiving power.
Another reason could be that the router is not properly plugged into an electrical outlet. If you have checked both of these things and there are still no lights on your router, then the router may be defective or has a power issue.
Is repairing a dead router worth it?
Maybe not. Generally, it is cheaper to buy a new router than go through the hassles of repairing a damaged one that needs several tweaks and parts replacements in its circuit.
Just imagine how much time and effort you will put into reviving a dead router when you can buy a new and better one only by adding a few more bucks. You should, however, try the troubleshooting tips we have provided above as some of them are very simple and easy to do.
How long should a router last?
A router should be able to last for around five years. However, this will still depend on how much network traffic your router gets, how carefully you use it, as well as the quality of the router. If you have a high-quality router, it might even last for more than five years.
Conclusion
It’s true that your router shouldn’t just randomly stop working. Something is likely causing the problem. But before you go out and buy a new router, try the steps outlined above.
This way, you’ll know for sure if it’s a power-related problem, saving you the time and money of purchasing a new router.
And if none of the steps work, you can head out to the store and buy yourself a new and better router that will surely give you years of smooth internet connection.