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How to fix the red light on your Wi-Fi router

A red light on your Wi-Fi router typically indicates an issue with your internet connection though we have 8 actions you can take to fix it.

What are the common reasons for a red light on your router?

Power outage:

The router may not be receiving sufficient power.

Loose cable:

The Ethernet cable connecting your router to your modem may be loose or damaged.

Modem issue:

There might be a problem with your modem, preventing it from providing an internet signal.

Router malfunction:

The router itself could be faulty.

Fixing the red light on your Wi-Fi router

person using their laptop to fix their broadband router

1. Check Power Supply

  • Ensure the power cable is securely plugged into both the router and the electrical outlet.
  • Try plugging the router into a different outlet to rule out power issues.
  • If possible, use a multi-meter to measure the voltage at the outlet to confirm that it's functioning correctly.
  • Consider using a surge protector to protect your router and modem from power surges.

person unplugging their ethernet cable

2. Examine Ethernet Cable

  • Inspect the Ethernet cable for any visible damage, such as cuts, bends, or frayed wires.
  • Check it's plugged into the correct port; it can be easy to plug into the wrong one.
  • Carefully unplug the cable from both the router and the modem.
  • Reinsert the cable firmly, ensuring a secure connection.
  • If the cable is damaged, replace it with a new one. You can likely source one online to be delivered to your home.
  • Try using a different Ethernet cable to isolate the issue.

person plugging cable into their router

3. Restart Router and Modem

  • Unplug both your router and modem from the power outlets.
  • Wait for at least 30 seconds before plugging them back in.
  • Allow both devices to fully boot up before checking the red light.
  • If the red light persists, try restarting your router and modem again, but wait for at least a few minutes before plugging them back in.

broadband router lights

4. Check Modem Status

  • If the red light persists, examine the status lights on your modem.
  • Refer to your modem's user manual for specific light indications and troubleshooting steps.

person inspecting their router

5. Leaving your router can be a safe bet

Most Wi-Fi issues are only short-lived and can fix themselves on their own. With this in mind, it's best not to try lots of different troubleshooting tricks to try and sort it. Giving your router some initial time to try and sort itself out can be the best first step.

Test Background Color

6. Is your ISP down?

When your ISP isn't working, this could be due to a technical fault, a power outage or there is maintenance affecting your line. To know if your ISP is down for certain, you can use Downdetector. If this issue isn't related to a local power outage, you will need to contact our customer service to fix this issue.
woman using her computer

7. WAN IP Address not connected

Sometimes, your router might not automatically get an internet address (IP address). This can cause the red internet light to stay on. You can usually fix this by accessing your router's settings via the admin dashboard.

First, on your device's Wi-Fi settings, enter the network (or titled advanced) settings of your home Wi-Fi. You should then find a setting called "WAN." Next to it, there will likely be an option for "Automatic IP." Make sure this option is checked, if not, check it and save your changes. This should fix the problem with your WAN IP address connection.

Additional Tips:

Check for router updates:

Regularly update your router's firmware to ensure optimal performance and security.

Avoid placing objects near the router:

Metal objects or interference from other electronic devices can affect the Wi-Fi signal.

Consider relocating the router:

If possible, move the router to a central location in your home for better Wi-Fi coverage.

Check for network congestion:

If you have multiple devices connected to your network, excessive data usage can cause slow speeds or connection issues.

Try a different wireless channel:

If you're experiencing interference from other Wi-Fi networks, try switching your router to a different wireless channel.

8. Contact our Award-Winning Customer Service

If you still have ablinking red light on your Wi-Fi router, you can always contact our customer service team and speak to an expert. Our UK-based team have been recognised with the 2024 Feefo Trusted Service award for consistently delivering industry-leading care.

Visit our Customer Services Centre.