Cybersecurity experts recommend monthly Wi-Fi router restarts

Cybersecurity experts and the U.S. National Security Agency (NSA) recommend restarting Wi-Fi routers at least once a month to enhance network security. This simple action can interrupt certain types of malicious processes and temporarily disconnect attackers who may have compromised the device. Because some malware operates only within a device's volatile memory, power-cycling the router for 30 to 60 seconds can clear that memory and break active connections.

The recommendation follows reports of global networks of compromised home and office routers being used by groups such as the Russian military intelligence group APT28, also known as Fancy Bear. These compromised routers can be used to steal passwords, intercept internet traffic, or participate in botnets.

However, experts warn that restarting is not a permanent fix for underlying vulnerabilities. To maintain long-term security, users should regularly update their router's firmware, enable automatic updates if available, change default usernames and passwords to strong, unique credentials, and disable remote management features if they are not required.