The problem: every so often you need to reboot your router or modem, or both, and invariably, it’s at the most inconvenient time. The solution: a timer that automatically turns your router or modem off and back on once every 24 hours. That is the beauty of the NetReset automatic power cycler!
Now, whether, in this day and age, you should have to occasionally recycle your router or modem is another matter. But the reality is that every so often you do. Oh, you can blame Comcast, or LinkSys, or Cisco, or Microsoft, or Apple, or the gods, or the alignment of the planets, or whomever you like, but, it happens.
So when we were offered the opportunity to test out the NetReset, we were all over it. Here’s what the Lexington, Kentucky company has to say about their device:
The NetReset is a power source for resolving networking issues through a modem and router by using sequential power cycling that can be scheduled to occur during down-time. It works with any 120 volt wall outlet, surge protector, or battery backup, and the automated power cycling clears the router’s cache and clears static charge for a faster internet connection. It also automates a networking sequence for restoring connectivity following a power outage. This power cycler has a 20-day battery backup for programmed reset times and is compatible with all modems, routers, or network combinations.
So, when we received our test device, we were jazzed to give it a whirl! And if you have ever had to go unplug your router or modem, to reset it, we’re pretty sure that you will be too.
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The NetReset device is extremely simple and easy to set. You set the clock by pushing and holding down the clock button, and then adjusting the time with the hour and minute buttons. Then you set the reset time by pushing (but not holding down) the program button to set the hour and minute that you want your modem and/or router to be reset.
That’s it!
You can buy the NetReset device on Amazon:
Two things that we have learned:
» The two outlets on the NetReset are labelled “Mod” for ‘modem’ and “Rout” for ‘router’. If you don’t have a modem you need to plug your router into the Mod outlet instead of the Rout outlet, or your router won’t get power.
» If you need to do a full computer backup over the network, so that it may take more than 24 hours, be sure to plug your router back into the wall until that backup is done if you aren’t 100% sure that a power interruption won’t start the backup all over again.
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Caution, this unit has an inherent design flaw. The modem plug power cycles and after a brief delay, the router plug recycles. The problem is that if the modem takes a while (2-3 minutes) to fully come up after recycling, the router recycles after 1 minute. Most routers, such as Netgear, may be left in an indeterminate state and will not subsequently come online. The NetReset folks tell me that they have a new model due out which will solve this problem by allowing the user to set the delay between reset times between the modem and router but this unit as sold on Amazon DOES NOT have that feature.
This is a great idea…
Too bad we need it.
Hi Anne! Another useful tip here, thanks. Just one thing to add — I’m sure you mean “power-cycle” instead of “recycle.” “Wait,” the tiny voice says. “I’m not dead yet.”
Gary! Will we see you on 5/4??