Question:
As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
Hey all,
I currently own the Netgear WGR614 ver4 router (silver and black).
I've been using that router for over 5 years now. Lately, there has been noticeable lag with its wireless connection. It happens to all laptops that connect to it. Furthermore, the router's speed is fine when I connect via ethernet. Also, I've just swapped the router with a Westell Versalink and it's wireless connect is great!
So my question now is, is this a sign that I need to replace my old Netgear router with a new one? Keep in mind, my router is on 24/7/365. I never turn it off except to reboot it (rarely).
Also, I find this router's range to be acceptable. But as I move into my new home, (2 stories---> 3, if I include the basement), I'm concerned about range and signal penetration. I plan on keeping the old Netgear as a wired router, but when I get a new router as a AP, does more bandwidth = more speed and more coverage? Or should I look at those MIMO-based routers?
Thanks for reading this lengthy post!
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
Yes, after 4 years my Linkysys's wireless connection would CONSTANTLY drop in and out, go from excellent to no connection, and I bought a new router and it now works flawlessly.
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
I do not believe so if you take care of your router.
You cannot base it on one persons experience to immediately say "yes".
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
from my experiences the answer seems to be a definate maybe. I have had them do just that when simply sitting on a well ventilated shelf for as short as 13-15 months and have also had them run forever w/o any degredation in signal. I suspect it is heat related issue. If your router tends to run hot then likely it will have a much shorter lifespan. Also the condition incoming power can take it's toll on any electrical device. So, I would say a definite maybe...if you are having problems out of the blue grab a new router and see what happens. Worst case you end up with a back up router that you might be able to use as an access point to extend your wifi setup range.
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
just wondering, are there more wireless networks in the area now than when you purchased the router?
interference could cause similar symptoms as well as occasional drops.
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
There isn't a significant increase. I'd say about 2-3 more routers in the vicinity. When I try and detect it, signals weren't all that strong.
Considering the possibility of interference, I tried changing the channels, but that didn't help.
However, like I said, now that I'm using the Versalink (from Verizon DSL), I'm definitely getting superb wireless speed.
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
I generally buy SMB equipment and have never noticed any slow down. But it is possiable with wireless and wired if it's over heating you will notice slower speeds. It doesn't hurt to blow the dust out of them. And the radios generally run hot. I alway adjust the power setting to a minimum I need to cover my needs. Causes less problems with neighbors and the unit will run cooler.
Answer:
Re: As router age, does its wireless capability diminish?
I have been running a Linksys WRT54GS for almost over two years now with any problems whatsoever.
None, zip, zippo, nada, I have never lost my connection to my laptop while in my house.
Amazing eh?