Why you should turn off your PC, laptop, modem, router, and other tech routinely

Rick Klemann bought a new modem/router, and wants to know “whether I will shorten it’s lifespan if I keep it on. My son-in-law turns his off every night and I’m wondering if I should do that.” My answer covers more than networking gear.

I have yet to see evidence that leaving an electronic device on 24/7 wears it out faster than turning it off at night. On the other hand, I haven’t seen any evidence that turning it off at night hurts it, either.

Nevertheless, I vote for turning things off whenever practical.

[Have a tech question? Ask PCWorld Contributing Editor Lincoln Spector. Send your query to answer@pcworld.com.]

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