Category: Troubleshooting · Last updated 5 Oct 2026
How to restart your modem and router properly
How to restart your modem and router in the right order so a simple reboot actually fixes dropouts and connection problems.
Restarting sounds trivial, but the order and the waiting both matter.
- Power off at the wall Switch the modem off at the power point, not just with the button on the back.
- Wait 30 seconds This lets the internal memory clear and the connection at the exchange release properly.
- Power back on Switch it on and leave it alone.
- Wait three to five minutes The modem needs time to resynchronise. Lights will change several times before settling.
Don't press the small recessed reset button. That factory-resets the modem and wipes your Wi-Fi name and password along with your connection settings.
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