Testing a router

[jjonn3]

Is there a way to test a wired router?

I have had problems with my Internet connection "hanging" just doing nothing for a couple of minutes - then coming back.

Just last week the cable company installed all new lines from the street through out the house and a new modem - so I thought my problem was fixed.

But it still happens at times.

I am now wondering if it could be my router. I have a D-Link EBR-2310 Ethernet Broadband Router and it is a bit over 5 years old and I will happily replace it if that is the problem - but I am wondering if there is a way I can test it to find out if this is the problem or not. It happens with both computers I have on the network - so it is not just one port - but maybe the router has had its day.

So is there a basic test to see if the router is still good?

Thanks -

[Corny]

Well you can connect and post here, so it is "good". The hanging can be a multitude of things. For startes, you have to check whether it happens when you are connected without the router, too. Check whether you can reach the router while it hangs and you cannot reach the internet. Check whether your IP changed after the hanging ..

[burke67]

Can you remove the router from the scenario altogether and have the PCs connected directly to the ISP's modem?

If you can; do so, and then do all the usual activities.

If the same occurs; it's not the router and is an ISP issue.
If it doesn't it's the router.

My 2c...Given the age of the router... I'd replace it.
Do, however, test your ISP's link by eliminating the router from the chain before purchasing a replacement router.

B

[trinket]

I have a D-Link EBR-2310 Ethernet Broadband Router and it is a bit over 5 years old and I will happily replace it if that is the problem

^ Heh, It's really funny, I have two routers (one being wireless and more up-to-date) and one of them is that exact same model of yours, the D-Link EBR-2310. That thing was pretty cheap and plentiful for a while, and I had bought it in a pinch after the one it replaced died. Anyway, back to your issue: This router's basically been fine for me, although it has had a few minor quirks (and was overheating for a while; keep the ventilation holes clear and keep it dusted/vacuumed). You could try flashing its firmware (downloads for that model) - logon to the router's page to check your current firmware version and revision level for that model (another method described on their website link) - if you haven't ever done that, it might help stability a bit, though their core firmware is old itself. For a replacement router you might look at a Linksys/Cisco - great reputation for products.