Two ways to put Wi-Fi on a timer
There are two broad approaches, and which one you use depends on your router:
- A built-in schedule or time limit in the router’s settings or companion app. This turns the wireless signal off and on, or limits specific devices, without cutting power to the router.
- An external timer such as a smart plug or mechanical plug-in timer that switches power to the router itself.
Not every router supports a built-in schedule, so check your model’s settings first.
Before you start
- Find the router’s address and login. The default address (for example, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, or a brand-specific name) and the admin password are often printed on a label on the router. If you have changed the password and forgotten it, you may need to reset the router, which erases your settings. First try where to find your router password and login.
- Connect a device. A phone or computer on the router’s Wi-Fi works, or use an Ethernet cable. Using a cable is safer if you plan to change wireless settings.
- Note what depends on the router. If you have cameras, alarms or smart home devices, think about whether they will lose connectivity during scheduled off times. Our article on whether to unplug your router at night covers this.
Step 1: Check the router’s clock
A schedule only works if the router knows the correct time. Look for a time or system setting, often under a heading such as System Tools, Administration or Time Settings. Pick your time zone and, if offered, enable getting the time automatically from the internet. TP-Link, for example, describes its system time as the setting used by time-based features such as parental controls, and offers a time zone selection plus automatic or manual time setting. If your router cannot reach the internet for time, a schedule may run at the wrong hour.
Check daylight saving settings too, since an unadjusted clock can shift your schedule by an hour.
Step 2: Find the schedule option
Names and menus differ by brand and firmware version, so treat the paths below as typical examples rather than exact instructions.
- TP-Link: often under Advanced and Wireless, in an option called Wireless Schedule, or through the Tether app.
- ASUS: often under the wireless settings as a scheduling option, or within parental controls for specific devices.
- Other brands: look for terms such as Wi-Fi schedule, wireless schedule, Wi-Fi timer, access schedule, parental controls, time limits or Wi-Fi off timer.
If you cannot find it, search your router’s model name plus “Wi-Fi schedule” or check the manual on the manufacturer’s support site. Routers supplied by an internet provider sometimes have this feature in the provider’s own app rather than the admin page.
Step 3: Create the schedule
- Open the schedule option and enable it.
- Choose the days it should apply to.
- Set the off time and on time, such as an off period overnight.
- Choose which network it applies to if there are several (for example, a main network and a guest network, or separate bands).
- Save or apply. Some routers briefly restart their wireless settings when you save.
Test it by setting a short off period a few minutes ahead and confirming that Wi-Fi drops and returns as expected.
Limiting specific devices instead
If you only want to restrict certain devices, such as a child’s tablet, look for parental controls or device time limits. These pause internet access for selected devices at set times while the rest of the household stays online. This is often a better fit than turning off all Wi-Fi. Our guide to setting up an internet filter on your router covers related controls.
If your router has no schedule feature
A smart plug or mechanical plug-in timer can switch power to the router at set times. Keep these points in mind:
- This cuts power entirely, so wired devices and any internet-based phone service also go offline.
- The router will need a few minutes to start up and reconnect after power returns.
- Pick a timer rated for the router’s power adapter and check the timer’s maximum load. Routers use little power, but the timer should still be suitable for the plug and outlet.
- If your modem and router are separate devices, decide whether to put both on the timer or just the router.
Another option is replacing the router with one that supports scheduling. If you shop for a new one, check the feature list for scheduling.
Scheduled restarts
Some people want a router to restart at a set time rather than stay off. A few routers offer a scheduled reboot in their settings, often in an administration or system section. If yours does not, a smart plug can power-cycle it, though regular restarts should not be needed on a healthy router. If you need them to stay online, look into the cause. See why Wi-Fi slows or drops at night for common culprits.
Why your schedule might not be working
- Wrong time or time zone on the router.
- The schedule is applied to only one band or network, so other networks keep broadcasting.
- Settings were not saved or the router needs a restart after changes.
- Firmware quirks. Updating the router’s firmware may help, and the manufacturer’s notes may mention scheduling fixes.
- Mesh systems. Some mesh setups apply schedules differently to satellite units, or manage them only through an app.
Keeping Wi-Fi from turning back on automatically
If the Wi-Fi comes back at a time you did not choose, check for a schedule you set earlier, a provider app that controls the gateway, or a smart plug on a timer. Review the schedule’s on time and days, or disable the schedule entirely.
Frequently asked questions
How do I turn a router off and on? Use the router’s power button if it has one, or unplug the power adapter, wait briefly and plug it back in. Allow a few minutes to restart.
How do I set time limits on Wi-Fi? Use parental controls or device time limits if your router offers them, or a Wi-Fi schedule for the whole network.
Will a Wi-Fi schedule affect my internet connection itself? Usually it only turns off the wireless signal. The router stays powered and connected, so wired devices keep working.