"If it still works, why replace it?" is reasonable for a toaster, but risky for a router. A router that connects fine can still be a serious security liability if it no longer gets firmware updates. In 2026, botnets have hijacked thousands of aging routers precisely because their owners kept them online years past their support window. Here is how to judge when yours should go.

The main reason: end of life

The single most important question is whether your router still receives firmware updates. Once a manufacturer stops supporting a model - its end-of-life (EOL) date - newly discovered vulnerabilities never get patched. Attackers know this and specifically hunt for EOL hardware. A router that has not had a firmware update in a few years should be treated as a risk regardless of how well it streams Netflix.

Signs it is time to replace

  • No firmware updates for 2-3+ years, or the model is listed as end-of-life by the manufacturer.
  • The vendor's support page is gone or no longer lists your model.
  • It only supports old WiFi (802.11n/ac) - see WiFi standards compared - which usually also means old security.
  • It cannot do WPA3, or even tops out at WPA/WEP. Modern security matters; see WPA2 vs WPA3.
  • It was provided years ago by your ISP and has never been updated or replaced.
  • You suspect it is already compromised - see is your router part of a botnet?

Why "it still works" is not enough

An unpatched router is an open door that faces the entire internet 24/7. Even if your devices behave normally, the router itself can be quietly recruited to attack others, scan for victims, or snoop on your traffic. Unlike a slow connection, you usually will not notice - which is exactly why attackers favor it.

If you cannot replace it immediately

Until you can swap it out, reduce the risk: update to the final available firmware, change the admin password from the factory default, disable remote management, and turn off UPnP. These steps help but do not replace a supported router.

What to replace it with

Look for a current model that still gets regular updates and supports WPA3 and modern WiFi. You do not need the newest standard - WiFi 7 is the sweet spot in 2026, and WiFi 6E is great value. Compare options in our router reviews, then secure the new one with the best home network security plan.