How Often Should You Replace Your Router? (Plus Router Recommendations)

If you’ve ever wondered how often you should reboot your router—or when it’s time to replace it—you’re not alone. We’ve already covered how often you should reboot your router. In this guide, we’ll focus on how long routers typically last, the signs it’s time for a replacement, and a few popular home router brands to consider.

The general consensus is that you don’t need to replace a router as frequently as a phone or computer, but replacing it periodically can help maintain network security and performance.

A router is an electronic device that typically runs 24/7, so its performance and stability can gradually decline over time. For most routers on the market, the expected lifespan is usually around 3–5 years. In everyday use, many households simply keep the router until it stops working.

There are two common reasons to replace a router:

• If your router has an unstable signal, slower speeds, frequent freezes/crashes, or it’s been in service for a long time, replacing it can be a good option.
• As technology advances and new networking standards emerge, newer routers may support higher speeds and more advanced features, which can improve your overall experience. If your home or business has higher requirements for speed, stability, and security, it can also make sense to replace your router on a regular basis.

Choosing a home router depends on your needs and budget. If you’d like a quick checklist, see: What to Consider When Choosing a Router.

Based on broad market visibility and popularity, here are several well-known home router brands to consider:

• MI/Xiaomi: Often known for strong value and a feature-rich setup. For example, the Xiaomi Router AX3000 is positioned for higher speeds, multi-device networking, and smart home features.
• HUAWEI: Commonly praised for stable performance and solid coverage for home use. The Huawei Router AX3 Pro is widely regarded as a strong-value Wi-Fi 6 option, offering fast speeds and broad signal coverage.
• TP-LINK: Offers a wide range of home routers to fit different households and budgets. Models like the TL-XDR3010 (mesh-capable edition) often receive positive feedback for everyday performance and flexibility.
• ASUS: Frequently considered a premium choice, with strong performance, stability, and room to expand. Many models include advanced features such as gaming optimizations and VPN support—useful for power users.
• NETGEAR: Known for dependable performance and high-speed networking. Depending on the model, you may also get features like VPN, remote management, and smart home integrations. Some models add gaming and multimedia tools such as QoS (Quality of Service) and media server functions.
• LINKSYS: Well known for strong coverage and reliable throughput in home networks. Many models also support smart home integrations, making it easier to connect compatible devices across your network.

Besides the brands above, Tenda, Mercury, Cisco, and Google Nest also offer home routers in a variety of models and performance tiers. For more options, see the Router Brand List.

With that in mind, when choosing a router, consider your budget, your home network needs, and your home’s layout. Before you buy, review the specs and features to confirm they fit your requirements, then use user reviews and other information to help you decide whether to place an order.