How to Fix Wi-Fi That Keeps Dropping

Wi-Fi cutting out every few minutes? Try these free fixes in order — most people are back online within 5 minutes.

4 min read · 6 steps · Checked April 2026

1. Step 1. Restart your router — not only your device

   This fixes the majority of Wi-Fi problems. Find your router — the box provided by your internet company, usually with blinking lights. Unplug the power cord from the back of the router. Wait a full 60 seconds (count to 60). Plug it back in. Wait another 2 minutes for it to fully restart. The lights will blink and then stabilize. Try your Wi-Fi again.

   Quick Tip

   Restarting a router clears its memory and resets its connection to your internet provider. Most internet providers also recommend doing this once a month.

   Warning

   Do not press the small "Reset" button on the router — that erases all your settings and requires starting over. Unplug the power cord.

2. Step 2. Forget and rejoin the Wi-Fi network on your device

   Sometimes your device's memory of the Wi-Fi network gets corrupted. On iPhone: SettingsWi-Fi → tap the (i) next to your network name → Forget This Network → then reconnect by tapping the network name and entering your password. On Android: SettingsWi-Fi → tap your network name → tap Forget → then reconnect. On Windows: click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar → right-click your network → Forget → then reconnect.

3. Step 3. Move closer to the router

   Wi-Fi signal gets weaker the farther you are from the router, and thick walls, floors, and appliances can block it a lot. Try using your device in the same room as the router and see if the drops stop. If they do, distance or obstacles are the problem. A Wi-Fi extender (available for $20–$50 at any electronics store) can help extend coverage to farther rooms.

   Quick Tip

   Microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors all use the same radio frequency as Wi-Fi and can cause interference when they are on. Try moving your router away from these devices.

4. Step 4. Check if too many devices are connected

   Every device connected to your Wi-Fi shares the same bandwidth. If many family members are streaming video, video calling, and downloading at the same time, the connection can get congested and appear to drop. Try temporarily disconnecting some devices and see if stability improves. You can manage connected devices through your router's admin panel — type 192.168.1.1 into your browser's address bar to access it (username and password are often on a sticker on the router).

5. Step 5. Check your router's age

   Routers more than 5 years old may no longer receive software updates from the manufacturer, which can make them unstable and cause frequent drops. If your router is old and the problem persists after trying the steps above, contact your internet provider. Many providers will replace an old router for free, or you can purchase a new one for $50–$150. Ask your provider if they offer a modem/router combo rental — it includes automatic updates.

   Quick Tip

   For more detailed Wi-Fi troubleshooting, Microsoft's free guide is at support.microsoft.com — search "fix Wi-Fi connection issues." Apple's guide is at support.apple.com — search "use wireless diagnostics."

6. Step 6. Run your internet provider's speed test

   Visit fast.com (free, no sign-up) or speedtest.net to check your actual internet speed. If the speed shown is much lower than what you pay for, the problem is with your internet service, not your home Wi-Fi. In that case, call your internet provider's support line and tell them your speed test result. They can often diagnose and fix connection issues remotely.