How Often Should You Replace Your Modem?

If your modem ever stops working, you wont be able to get online.

So how often should you replace your modem to avoid a sudden catastrophe?

The general rule of thumb is every couple of years, but it depends on many different factors.

How Long Do Modems Usually Last?

Like any other networking hardware or technology in general, theres a considerable difference between basic and high-end modems.

Modems can last an exceptionally long time before failing if none of the parts fail.

Higher-end modems tend to use higher quality parts, like better capacitors that last longer before failing.

Some modems are designed better than others for heat dissipation, which can also help them last longer.

The exact amount of time you should wait before getting a new modem orreplacing your routerdepends on several factors.

However, cable internet service providers dont always adopt new standards immediately.

Whether or not you’re gonna wanna upgrade your modem depends on a few factors.

The other main factor you gotta consider is whether you rent your modem or own your modem.

If you own your modem, check it against the list of modems your ISP officially supports.

If a vital internal component fails, its essentially like flipping a light switch.

Getting a faster modem won’t necessarily increase your connection speed by itself.

That said, you should have a spare to try if you suspect there is a connection issue.

You might need to upgrade your router-modem combo if you upgrade to a faster internet plan.