Wi-Fi & Network
New router migration
A new router often changes local addresses, Wi-Fi behavior, and app discovery. A small migration plan prevents days of mystery breakage.
Before swapping routers
- Record the old Wi-Fi name, router LAN address, DHCP range, and important reservations.
- List devices that depend on stable local addresses: printers, NAS, cameras, backup destinations, and smart-home hubs.
- Keep the old router powered off but available until the new setup is stable.
After the new router starts
- Confirm the new LAN range and create fresh reservations for critical devices.
- Reconnect printers, shares, and backups using stable names or reserved addresses.
- Check one room at a time before changing advanced settings.
Avoid risky shortcuts
- Do not expose local devices to the internet to avoid fixing discovery.
- Do not repeatedly change the router subnet while devices are reconnecting.
- Stop before changing business, work-managed, VLAN, or ISP-required settings.
Last reviewed
2026-05-06