2. A router that old may not support 802.11n, the most widespread Wi-Fi technology. Indeed, if your router tops out at 802.11g, you're definitely not getting the speed and range you could be. But some 802.11n models are out of date as well, especially if they were made prior to 2009.

3. It probably doesn't offer dual-band wireless. It's possible that same of your other household products, like cordless phones and even your garage-door opener, operate on the same 2.4GHz wireless band as your router, and interference from them can tank your connectivity.

All this is not to say you should run out and buy a new router -- but at the very least you should think about it. You could always buy one that comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, try it out, and see if it makes a difference. If not, return it, no harm done.

As fate would have it, PC World recently reviewed , a good place to start your search for a new model. Of course, those may be overkill for some home users, as the 802.11ac standard has yet to be finalized. You might be better off with one of last year's top-rated 802.11n routers, like the Asus RT-N66U.