Poor internet connection and frequent router restarts

Question

I have been experiencing frequent issues with my Internet service over the last 2 months. When it first started I had to reset  my router 4-6 times a day. Otherwise I would have a strong wireless signal but no Internet access. I changed the automatic channel selection to a lower channel and it seemed to be fine for about 2 weeks. I figured that I was getting some sort of interference. Now I have noticed that the problem has returned. I also have noticed much slower speeds.
Does anyone have any ideas? Should I ask for a replacement router? It seems that there are many similar issues posted on the forums with few successful results.
Thanks for the help.
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Answer 1

Gotcha. So since it appears to only be Wireless, definitely consider changing the channel again. If other routers have Auto Channel selection on, they may be "stopping by" and using the same channel once again that you are using. I recommend using Vistumbler or InSSIDer to scan for Wi-Fi networks nearby you and choosing channels 1, 6, or 11, whichever has less networks on it to use. Some folks have found that using the other channels I did not mention have helped in some circumstances. Whatever you do though, keep the auto channel selection disabled since that has been found to be a source of disconnects itself.
If no amount of changing the channel helps but Wired access remains rock solid, then I would start to consider any devices you may have added onto your network since the program began, and perhaps software updates too if you have any tablets or smartphones on the network. If nothing has changed since the problem began, then it doesn't hurt to ask for another Wireless router from Verizon to replace your current, possibly problematic router.
I've seen in some cases too where WEP and WPA security have caused issues with certain devices when used which have caused disconnects. It wouldn't hurt to try moving to WPA2 security if it's available in your router to see if that helps since most newer devices work quite well with it, not to mention the higher level of security.
if nothing is working, then there's a good chance there is a "hidden interferer" in the mix. These could include any devices you or your neighbors might have set up such as Wireless access ponts and repeaters, cordless phones, baby monitors, bluetooth devices, microwaves and so on that use the very crowded and noisy 2.4Ghz band.
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