This page contains additional maintenance tips not found in my book.

1. Periodically Reboot Your Router

Periodically rebooting your router not only helps your RPi communicate with it, it also keeps your internet running fast and smoothly.

Routers are run with software, usually a Linux variant, and so they are susceptible to bugs and memory leaks. Over time, these issues can not only slow down your router, and your internet connection, but they can also prevent your RPi from being able to talk to it through UPnP – ensuring the proper ports are forwarded so you can use VPN and SSH on it.

I personally reboot both my routers and my cable modem every 2-3 months – more often if I notices things are getting slow – like video chats and streaming.

Consult your router’s manual for the proper procedure for rebooting your router and enjoy smoother, faster surfing.