How to restart your modem (and why it fixes most Wi-Fi issues)

Slow internet isn’t always one problem

Yes, “have you tried turning it off and on again” is still the most underrated piece of IT advice going. It works because modems, like all of us, occasionally need a quiet moment to themselves.

When the internet feels slow, the cause could be your device, the Wi-Fi signal, the modem, the NBN service, a carrier outage, or something quietly using the connection in the background. A few simple checks help you work out whether the problem is inside your home or office — or outside with the carrier.

Step 1: check who’s affected

1. Test one phone, one computer, and another device if possible.
2. Check whether the issue happens on Wi-Fi only or also with a cable.
3. Ask whether everyone is affected, or just one person.
4. Check if the problem is in one room only. That usually points to Wi-Fi signal, not the NBN connection.

Step 2: restart the modem safely

A modem restart can clear temporary faults, stuck connections, and some Wi-Fi quirks. Do it calmly, not repeatedly.

1. Save any work first — especially if you’re on a video call or uploading files.
2. Turn the modem off at the power point.
3. Wait 30 seconds.
4. Turn the modem back on.
5. Wait 5 to 10 minutes for the lights to settle.
6. Test again on one device close to the modem.

Step 3: run a simple speed test

1. Stand near the modem, or use a wired computer if you can.
2. Close streaming, downloads, cloud backup, and large file transfers first.
3. Run one speed test and write down the download, upload, and ping results.
4. Run another test in the room where the internet feels slow.
5. Compare the two. If near the modem is fine but another room is poor, it’s a Wi-Fi coverage issue, not the carrier.

Is it me or my carrier?

• If every device is affected, the modem lights look wrong, and a restart doesn’t help — it may be the NBN or carrier.
• If only one device is affected, the issue is more likely that device, its Wi-Fi settings, or its software.
• If only one room is affected, it’s usually Wi-Fi coverage or interference.

Simple tip

Take a photo of the modem lights when the internet is working normally. When there’s an outage, that photo makes it much easier to spot what’s changed — and saves you a “what colour was the third light usually?” conversation on the support call.

Still not working? Call us on (08) 6555 6500 or book a Wi-Fi review.