This is for you if… you wonder whether turning your router off at night saves money, improves safety, or causes more problems than it solves.
I was helping someone in Ware who switched their router off every evening. Their internet worked, but the smart doorbell, phone updates and Wi-Fi calling all stopped overnight.
Can you turn a router off?
Yes, you can. But for most homes, leaving it on is usually more convenient. Routers are designed to run continuously, and many devices expect Wi-Fi to be available in the background.
What turning it off can affect
- Phones and tablets may stop backing up overnight.
- Smart speakers, cameras and doorbells may go offline.
- Wi-Fi calling may stop working.
- Software updates may wait until later.
- Some broadband lines may take time to reconnect.
Does it save much money?
Routers use electricity, but usually not a huge amount. If saving energy is your main aim, look at your provider’s router guidance and consider whether the inconvenience is worth it.
When restarting is useful
Restarting a router occasionally can help with connection problems. That is different from switching it off every night. If the internet is slow or unreliable, a planned restart is a sensible first test.
Need help?
For ongoing help and peace of mind in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, see my membership. For a one-off Wi-Fi visit, you can book a visit.