Step 1 — Identify the symptom 🔎

• No internet (WAN/Internet light is red or off).
• Devices can’t connect to Wi-Fi.
• Only some LAN ports or devices work.
• Router keeps restarting or won’t power on.

Step 2 — Basic checks 🔌

• Power cycle the router: Turn it off, unplug the power for about 60 seconds, then plug it back in and start it up. This often clears temporary glitches.
• Check LEDs:
  • Power light should be solid.
  • WAN/Internet should be blinking or solid (depends on ISP).
  • LAN/Wi-Fi lights blink when devices are connected.
  • If lights are off or behaving oddly, suspect hardware or cable issues.

Step 3 — Test the cables 📡

• Ethernet (LAN/WAN): Check the RJ45 plugs for loose or broken pins. Try a different Ethernet cable you know works. Plug directly into a PC — if that restores internet, the original cable is faulty.
• Power cable / adapter: Make sure the adapter matches the router’s required voltage and amperage. A weak or wrong adapter can make the router act dead or unstable.
• ISP line (DSL / fiber / coax): Ensure it’s firmly connected to the modem/router. Look for cuts, exposed wires, or severe kinks.

Step 4 — Isolate the problem 🧪

• Test another device to see if the problem affects everything or just one device.
• Bypass the router: If possible, connect your computer directly to the modem or ISP line.
  • If the internet works when connected directly, the router or its cables are the problem.
  • If it still doesn’t work, the issue is likely the ISP or the line coming into your home.

Step 5 — Software troubleshooting 🖥️

• Open the router admin page: Typically at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. Check WAN/Internet status for messages like “Disconnected” or “Cable unplugged.”
• Update firmware: Installing the latest firmware can fix random disconnects and stability issues.
• Factory reset (last resort): Hold the reset button 10–30 seconds to restore defaults. You will need to reconfigure Wi-Fi name, password, and any custom settings afterward.

Step 6 — Fix common faults 🔧

• If a cable is bad → replace it with a Cat5e or Cat6 Ethernet cable for LAN or the correct ISP cable for your connection.
• If the power adapter is faulty → replace it with the exact model or a matching spec adapter.
• If the router shows signs of hardware failure (burning smell, no power, random reboots) → check warranty, contact your ISP if they supplied the router, or replace the device.

Step 7 — When to call your ISP or a technician 🚨

• Internet works when directly connected to the modem but not through the router (router likely at fault).
• The ISP line is visibly damaged.
• The router overheats, emits a burning smell, or won’t power on.
• You’ve done all the steps above and still have no stable connection.

Quick summary ✅

First, rule out cables (Ethernet, ISP line, power). Next, check router settings and firmware. If cables and software look fine but problems persist, it’s probably a hardware failure — repair or replace the router.