Why do I always have to restart the modem and router?

Question

I have a pretty standard modem and router connection. The problem is, every two hours or so, the internet arbitrarily stops working; the problem is always fixed by turning off the modem and router, and turning them back on.

Is this normal - is it my ISP's problem or is my router faulty? Why can't my devices restart themselves?

Solution

I'd try connecting a PC directly to the modem bypassing the router. If that connection is stable then there's a problem with either the router configuration or the hardware. If it's an old router try blowing any dust and crud out of it. If you're connecting wirelessly you might want to try a different channel at least two channels away from any other wireless networks if possible.

Comments

[Diogo]

It looks like you are having some problem when your ISP change your IP number. Maybe your router have a IP property misconfigured. Are you using DHCP(automatic adress) on your router?

[Alex Waters]

It is fairly common. Consumer-grade routers have built-in obsolescence, it is a very profitable market.

[MaQleod]

Always do a direct connect. This is the surefire way to separate the ISP network from yours when testing and your ISP will have you do this first thing when you call them anyway. When you are directly connected, run a continuous ping to your ISP's primary DNS for a few hours then check back for packet loss. If you see no issue, then it is likely a problem with your router.

[MaQleod]

This is fairly common to have happen when you are getting your DSL from a CLEC and not the ILEC. What often happens is that the connection is tested fine early on and then works for a while. After a period of time the ILEC will extend the loop to a new building, to bypass something or for whatever reason, but the loop length to your circuit goes up and you are now farther than your circuit speed will allow (DSL is VERY sensitive to distance limits).

[MaQleod]

Even consumer grade routers don't need to be restarted every few hours. Consumer grade is typically under $300, though you can get decent low-end used business grade routers for around $350-$500 (cisco, samsung, adtran, sonicwall, etc).

[Alex Waters]

You can also pickup a WRT54G for ~$20 and load DD-WRT to have a very functional and customized router. That is if you have a few hours to do some reading.