Why Does My WiFi Keep Dropping?

The Quick Version

WiFi that keeps disconnecting is frustrating. The cause is usually one of:

• Router needs a restart
• Interference from other devices
• Poor router placement
• Channel congestion
• Hardware issues

Follow the steps below to diagnose and fix the problem.

Step 1: Restart Your Router

It sounds cliché, but it works more often than you’d expect.

1. Unplug your router from power
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug it back in
4. Wait 2-3 minutes for it to fully restart
5. Test your connection

If this fixes it temporarily but the problem returns, keep reading.

Step 2: WiFi Dropping or Internet Down?

This is important - is your WiFi dropping, or is your internet going down?

• If your device stays connected to WiFi but has no internet → ISP or modem issue
• If your device completely disconnects from WiFi → Router or WiFi issue

Watch the WiFi icon on your device when it drops to tell the difference.

Step 3: Check for Interference Sources

Common culprits that interfere with WiFi (especially 2.4GHz):

• Microwave ovens (when running)
• Cordless phones (older DECT phones)
• Baby monitors
• Bluetooth devices
• Neighbouring WiFi networks
• Fish tanks (water blocks signal)
• Mirrors and metallic surfaces

If dropouts happen at specific times, think about what else is happening then.

Step 4: Check Your Router’s Location

Poor placement causes dropouts. Your router should NOT be:

• Inside a cupboard or cabinet
• On the floor
• Behind a TV or other electronics
• In a far corner of your home
• Near thick walls or metal objects

Ideally, it should be:

• Central to your most-used areas
• Out in the open
• Elevated (on a shelf, not the floor)
• Away from other electronics

Step 5: Check for Overheating

Routers can overheat, especially cheap ones or those in enclosed spaces:

• Feel if it’s very hot to touch
• Ensure ventilation holes aren’t blocked
• Don’t stack other devices on top of it
• Consider moving to a cooler spot

Step 6: Update Router Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause stability issues:

1. Log into your router’s admin panel (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
2. Look for firmware/software update option
3. Install any available updates
4. Reboot when done

Step 7: Check for Channel Congestion

If you’re in a dense area (apartments, townhouses), WiFi channels get congested:

1. Use a WiFi analyser app to see channel usage
2. Log into router and change to a less congested channel
3. For 2.4GHz, try channels 1, 6, or 11 (these don’t overlap)
4. For 5GHz, most channels are fine

Step 8: Check Device-Specific Issues

If only one device drops:

• Update the device’s WiFi drivers
• Forget the network and reconnect
• Check if power saving mode is disconnecting WiFi
• Try connecting to the other frequency band

If all devices drop simultaneously, the issue is your router or internet.

When to Get Help

If you’ve tried all of the above and still have dropouts, the issue may be more complex:

• Hidden interference sources
• Router hardware failure
• Issues with your internet service
• Wiring problems

A professional WiFi assessment can identify exactly what’s wrong.

Official Resources

• ACMA WiFi Interference Guide - Australian regulator advice on WiFi interference
• Wi-Fi Alliance Troubleshooting - Official WiFi technology resources