Can you use the same router in a different house?

It’s always been a pain, but relocation truly is one of the biggest hassles that corporate America demands of its labor force today. 

 

Forget the bills, time lost in cross country commute, anxiety, sleepless nights, and packing–there’s still a huge number of tasks involved with utilities, cable, and services you need the moment you get to the new place. It’s almost enough to drive even a grizzled IT project manager insane. Hopefully these five easy steps to help you move your internet service put it on the lower end of the stress meter.

 

How To Transfer Internet When You Move

 

1. Find Out if Your Current Provider is Available at Your New Residence

It seems simple, but it’s a big oversight for some. An Internet Service Provider (ISP) available to you in your current neighborhood might not be a part of the wireless network on the other side of the country, or even county. 

 

To find the best Internet Service Provider with high speed internet where you’re going to enter your zip code here.

 

Bandwidth Place shows a full listing of providers that offer internet (both fiber optics and cable internet) based on zip code. If your provider is still listed, you still need to call and check if they service the exact address (some might provide internet to one side of the street, but not the other). If they do, you’re in luck–simply call customer service and have them transfer your account.

2. Take Advantage of any Service Bundles

If you have to switch to a new provider (or if you’re lucky enough to keep your current, still–) check to see if there are any bundles available. Typically most providers bundle home phone, and internet–or satellite TV and Internet. Many require a contract agreement. These terms are typically based on a specified length of time. Early termination fees are often sneakily hidden in the fine print. Read carefully, and sign only after you’ve read everything so you don’t get caught in crippling surcharges if you have to relocate again!

 

3. Schedule the Service Call for the New Location

If you end up purchasing a new internet plan, schedule a convenient time for an installer to turn on your service. Make sure you can be present when they arrive and block out some extra time in case of unexpected delays. Most won’t even enter the walls of your home, but it’s best to be present to test your internet connection and make sure the fast speeds you’re paying for are coming through.

 

4. Pack up Your Equipment for the Move

Carefully pack up your modem and wireless router (if you have one) for the move. If you are going with a new ISP, you’ll need to return the equipment to their local service center. If there aren’t any nearby, you might have to make a trip to the post office. Either way, make sure the equipment is well protected.

 

Be careful to inspect and double check receipts (hopefully you’ve kept them). Some providers may charge you if their equipment isn’t in pristine condition, the way they sent it to you. Make sure labeled ethernet cables (yes they’ll even charge you for cables if it came with the package), modems, and routers are all returned in the state you received them in.

 

5. Check Your Internet Speed After Installation

Once the installer gets you online, perform a test on your home network before they leave. It’s important to check that you’re getting the speed you’re paying for. If there are any discrepancies make sure the installer checks the quality of your modem and router as well as any outside equipment. 

 

Chances are good you’ll be streaming videos in no time–but there’s a lot of components to home internet, so be thorough. Perform multiple speed tests with multiple devices, ask questions, test out the wi fi from different areas of the house. Better safe than sorry.

 

Follow these easy steps so you can simplify the process and reserve your real moving stress for packing, cleaning, and unpacking. Transferring your wifi network will be a breeze. We believe in you!

 

Whether you’re about to move, or you’ve just settled, it’s important that you’re getting the service you’re paying for. Upload speeds, download speeds, bandwidth, and ping – make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Test Your Internet Speed. 

Some Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my router work if I move?

A: Chances are it will power up and turn on, but will your wifi work if you move? Probably not. Routers only work when the service is available, compatible, and most importantly… on. Often the router is provided by the ISP – check with them to make sure it doesn’t need to be returned before you move.

 

Q: Can I unplug my router and move it?

A: If you’re just changing its location in your house, sure. Double check to make sure that it isn’t limited to a specific coaxial cable in your house. The number of coax cable outlets in your home might limit the possibilities of where you can place your modem or router.

 

Q: Can you move an internet router to another house?

A: It’s a long and complicated process–so at its root, no. Better just stick with the modems and routers that are provided to you by the company or that they suggest you buy or use.

 

Q: How do I transfer my AT&T internet to a new house? -OR- How do I transfer my Verizon Fios to a new house?

A: Steps 1 – 5 remain the same regardless of provider or services rendered. AT&T services different areas than Verizon services. You may not get to keep your specified provider or services. Always call your provider or customer service to make sure you get the speed and bundles you need before you move.

 

Q: What happens to your WiFi when you move houses?

A: Typically it just gets turned off. Most providers can control internet access from a central operating station. These hubs decide when internet is provided, the data caps, and at what speeds you receive it. 

Call your provider’s customer support to find out if they provide in the area you’re moving to, and make sure you call to turn it off as well (so your monthly bills don’t stack up for a service you’re not using).

 

Test Your Internet Speed


Can you use the same router in a different house?

Paul Williams

Paul Williams brings a wide range of experiences to his writing. He worked extensively in technology, as a software engineer, technical writer, and now a technology writer. Known as the leader of one of the top American Spacerock bands, his forward-looking music continues to be heard all over the world.


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Can you have the same WiFi in two different houses?

Yes, you can place each unit in separate houses. Basically, each hub can operate independently of one another, so essentially when you purchase this system you are purchasing three identical routers. So depending on your situation you will need to configure the system differently.

Can you use a router at a different location?

However, the router needs to be where the wireless signal won't be interrupted. If you connect other devices, like a printer or network storage, to your router or modem, it's also essential to think about where you'll place those. Can I move my router to another room? Yes, you can!

Can you have two different routers in two different places in your house?

Yes, you absolutely can have two separate connections in your house. With the two separate wireless routers you would need to set them on non-overlapping channels and you will be fine.

Can I take my internet with me when I move?

If your provider is still listed, you still need to call and check if they service the exact address (some might provide internet to one side of the street, but not the other). If they do, you're in luck–simply call customer service and have them transfer your account.