Intermittent Wi-Fi is maddening — especially when you're on a video call or streaming. If your internet keeps cutting out, here are the most likely causes and what you can do about them.
Restart your router. Unplug it, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in. This clears the router's memory and often resolves temporary glitches. If you have a separate modem, restart that too.
Router overheating. Routers tucked in cupboards, stacked on top of other devices, or sitting in direct sunlight (common in Townsville) can overheat and drop connections. Move it somewhere with airflow.
Old firmware. Log into your router's admin page (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) and check for firmware updates. Outdated firmware can cause stability issues.
Cheap or ISP-provided router. The free router your ISP gave you might not be up to the job — especially in larger homes or with many devices. A quality Wi-Fi 6 router or mesh system makes a huge difference.
Neighbour congestion. In denser Townsville suburbs, dozens of Wi-Fi networks compete on the same channels. Try switching your router to a less congested channel — apps like WiFi Analyzer can show you what's busy.
Physical barriers. Thick concrete walls, metal roofing (very common up here), and large appliances block Wi-Fi signals. If your router is at one end of the house, the other end will suffer.
Distance. Wi-Fi signal weakens with distance. If you're too far from the router, consider a mesh Wi-Fi system or a wired access point in the dead zone.
One device dropping, others fine: The problem is likely with that specific device. Update its Wi-Fi drivers, forget the network and reconnect, or try resetting network settings.
All devices dropping at once: The problem is with the router or your internet connection itself. Check with your ISP for outages in your area.
If you're on NBN in Townsville, dropouts can sometimes be caused by issues at the NBN connection box, especially after storms. Check for visible damage to the connection box and report faults to your ISP. If you're on FTTN (fibre to the node), line quality can degrade in wet weather.
If you've tried the basics and your Wi-Fi is still unreliable, we can survey your home or office, identify the problem, and recommend the right solution — whether that's a better router, a mesh system, or a properly wired access point setup.