---
title: "How to restart your modem and router properly"
description: "How to restart your modem and router in the right order so a simple reboot actually fixes dropouts and connection problems."
url: "https://dev.www.lightningip.com.au/help/internet/restart-your-modem"
canonical: "https://dev.www.lightningip.com.au/help/internet/restart-your-modem"
updated: "2026-10-04"
---

# 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.

1. **Power off at the wall** - Switch the modem off at the power point, not just with the button on the back.
2. **Wait 30 seconds** - This lets the internal memory clear and the connection at the exchange release properly.
3. **Power back on** - Switch it on and leave it alone.
4. **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.