How to restart a modem and router

Updated: 12/10/2023 by Computer Hope
NETGEAR modem/router combo.

Many network issues are resolved by restarting a modem and router, like YouTube videos buffering, webpages taking too long to load, or a Wi-Fi (or wired) connection no longer working.

Some users have a single device that houses the modem and router (also known as a modem/router combo), while others have two separate units. Luckily, with both configurations, the process is essentially the same. To learn how to restart your home network's modem and router, follow the steps below.

Restarting a modem and router

  1. If you have a modem/router combo, unplug the power cord. If your modem and router are separate devices, unplug both of them. Wait one minute.
  2. If you have two devices, plug the modem in first; otherwise, plug in your modem/router combo.
  3. If you're using separate devices, give the modem about 30 seconds to communicate with your ISP (Internet Service Provider) again and acquire an IP address. Then, plug in your router. If you're using a combo device, you can skip this step.
  4. Once all the necessary components are connected, give your system a minute or two to finalize the default settings and connections. You may need to restart your computer to fully refresh everything.