Why does restarting/resetting the router work?

Why does restarting/resetting the router work? So, I'm a technology guy and sometimes I have to troubleshoot a home network, including my own. I make sure the wires are in securely and that the lights suggest there's an actual internet connection. Usually after that point I just reset the router( and possibly the cable modem) and that fixes things most of the time.
Asked by: Guest \| Views: 352

Total answers/comments: 2

Comments display order:

Guest [Entry]

"Many sorts of problems can be fixed by restarts. Not only with routers, but with computers in general. :)

Usually this is a solution when, for some reason, the operating system of the machine in question (be it router, PC, phone, or pretty much anything else) becomes unresponsive for some reason - most probably due to a bug which leads to memory leaks, which over time slow down the system."

Guest [Entry]

"Restarting the router empties the DNS cache inside of it. There are times when a DNS cache contains out of date page info, and clearing it can make things work better. Windows and Linux have commands for flushing the dns cache without a restart. I can't say about routers.

The paper clip in hole generally causes a reset to factory condition. This can erase configuraton information that you need to make the network functional. For example, if your router is also a DSL modem/home gateway, you will lose the authentication info the router uses to log you onto the internet gateway."