Can my router catch a virus? Detect and remove router malware

You’re streaming your favorite show when the connection suddenly drops. Websites take forever to load. Strange pop-ups appear, even when you’re not browsing. Is it your internet provider? A faulty router? Or something worse—a router virus?

Yes, routers can get infected with malware, just like computers and phones. A compromised router can slow down your network, redirect you to malicious websites, or even expose your personal data to cybercriminals. And the worst part? You might not even realize it’s happening.

In this guide, we’ll break down how router malware spreads, the warning signs of an infection, and most importantly, how to remove it. We’ll also cover essential router security tips to protect your network from future attacks. Let’s dive in.

Can a router get a virus?

Yes, router viruses are a real risk. Unlike traditional computer viruses, which infect files and programs, router malware targets the firmware or settings of your router. Once infected, your router can spread malware to every device on your network, redirect your traffic to malicious websites, or even give cybercriminals full control over your internet connection.

Since many routers don’t have built-in antivirus protection, infections can go unnoticed for weeks or months. That’s why understanding how router malware works and knowing the signs of an infection is crucial for keeping your network secure.

Cybercriminals often use tactics like brute-force attacks to break into routers, exploiting weak passwords and outdated firmware. Once inside, they can modify your settings, install malicious scripts, or turn your device into part of a botnet.

What types of malware can infect a router?

Different types of router malware can affect your device in various ways, from slowing down your internet to stealing sensitive data. Here are the most common threats:

• DNS hijacking on routers: This type of attack alters your router’s DNS settings, redirecting you to fake websites that look real. You might enter your banking credentials or personal info, unknowingly handing it over to cyberthieves.
• Botnet infections: Some router viruses turn your device into part of a botnet—a network of infected devices controlled by cybercriminals. These botnets are used for large-scale cyberattacks, like DDoS attacks that overload websites, or spam email campaigns.
• Spyware and data theft: Some malware can monitor your internet activity, logging sensitive information like passwords and financial transactions. This type of attack is often linked to phishing scams.
• Ransomware on routers: While less common, some ransomware strains target routers, locking people out of their networks until a ransom is paid.

How do routers get infected with malware?

A router virus doesn’t just appear out of nowhere. Cybercriminals exploit weak security settings, outdated firmware, and poor password practices to gain access. Once infected, your router can spread malware to every device on your network, redirect traffic, or even spy on your activity.

Since routers don’t have built-in antivirus protection, they’re a prime target for cybercriminals. Understanding the most common security vulnerabilities can help you protect your home router security and keep malware out.

Common router security vulnerabilities

Many router malware infections happen due to simple security weaknesses. Here are some of the most common ways cybercriminals break in:

• Weak or default passwords: Many people never change their router’s default admin password, making it easy for cybercriminals to guess. Cybercriminals use brute-force attacks to break in and take control. 
• Outdated firmware: Router manufacturers release firmware updates to patch security flaws. You could be exposed to known vulnerabilities if you don’t update your router regularly. 
• Unsecured remote access: Some routers allow remote management by default, letting users log in from anywhere. Cybercriminals can exploit this feature to gain control, especially if the password is weak.
• Malicious software downloads: Clicking on infected links or downloading compromised files can introduce router malware that alters your network settings. 
• Compromised DNS settings: A common attack is DNS hijacking on routers, where cybercriminals change your router’s DNS settings to redirect you to fake websites that look real.

If your router is vulnerable, an infection can happen without you realizing it—until it’s too late.

Role of remote access in router infections

Remote access is a convenient feature that lets you manage your router settings from anywhere. But if left unsecured, it’s also a cybercriminal’s entry point. Many router infections happen because remote access is enabled without strong security measures in place.

Here’s how attackers exploit this feature:

• Guessing weak passwords: If remote access is turned on and the password is weak (or still set to default), cybercriminals can log in and change your settings.
• Exploiting open ports: Some routers have open ports for remote management, making it easier for attackers to find and infiltrate them.
• Installing backdoors: Once inside, cybercriminals can install backdoors, giving them ongoing access to your router—even after you think you’ve removed the threat.

To protect yourself, disable remote access if you don’t need it. If you do, make sure to use a strong, unique password and enable two-factor authentication if your router supports it.

Symptoms of a router virus: how to spot an infection

A router virus can be hard to detect because it doesn’t always cause obvious issues. Unlike malware on a computer, router malware doesn’t necessarily slow down performance or display pop-ups. Instead, it works in the background, affecting your entire network.

If your internet has been acting strangely, your settings have changed, or you see unknown devices on your network, your router may be infected. Here’s how to tell if something’s wrong.

Slow internet speed or unusual behavior

One of the most common signs of router malware is a sudden drop in internet speed. While slow speeds can be caused by your ISP or high network usage, persistent lag could mean your router is compromised.

Look for these red flags:

• Websites take longer to load, even when no one else is using the internet
• Streaming services keep buffering, despite a strong connection
• Your network cuts in and out randomly
• Certain websites redirect to suspicious pages or display fake security warnings

A router virus may be using your bandwidth to spread malware, conduct cyberattacks, or send spam. Cybercriminals might also redirect your traffic to phishing sites to steal your personal data.

If your connection slows down unexpectedly and other troubleshooting steps don’t fix it, your router could be compromised.

Unknown devices connected to your network

If you see unfamiliar devices connected to your Wi-Fi, it’s a major red flag. A cybercriminal who has access to your router may have connected a rogue device to your network. This allows them to monitor your traffic, steal data, or spread malware to other devices.

How to check for unknown devices:

• Log in to your router’s admin panel (check the router manual for the address).
• Look for a device list or connected devices section.
• Identify all devices—if anything looks suspicious, it could be a cybercriminal’s entry point.

Some advanced router viruses can even hide unauthorized connections from your admin panel. If you suspect something is off, changing your Wi-Fi password and restarting your router can help boot unwanted devices.

Router settings have changed without your knowledge

A router virus often works by altering your DNS settings or other configurations. If you notice changes you didn’t make, malware could be at play.

Watch for:

• Your DNS settings pointing to unfamiliar servers (a sign of DNS hijacking on routers)
• Your admin password no longer working
• Security settings, such as firewalls or encryption, being disabled
• A new login page or interface that looks different from before

If your settings have changed on their own, a cybercriminal may have remote access to your router. 

How to check if your router is infected

If you suspect a router virus, it’s important to check if there’s an infection before taking action. Router malware often works in the background, altering network settings and redirecting traffic without obvious signs. Here are three easy ways to check if you have a router virus.

Inspect DNS settings

One of the most common signs of router malware is DNS hijacking—when cybercriminals change your DNS settings to redirect your internet traffic to malicious websites.

Here’s how to check if your DNS settings have been tampered with:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel: Open a web browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1). Log in with your admin credentials.
2. Find the DNS settings: Look for a section labeled Internet Settings, Network Settings, or DNS Configuration.
3. Check the DNS addresses: If they’ve changed to unfamiliar servers (not your ISP’s or a trusted DNS service like Google’s 8.8.8.8), they could be hijacked.
4. Reset the settings: If something looks suspicious, manually change the DNS settings to a trusted provider or reset them to automatic.

Warning: If your DNS settings keep changing back, your router may still be infected. 

Perform a router virus scan

Unlike computers and phones, most routers don’t come with built-in antivirus software. However, you can still run a network virus scan to detect malware affecting your router.

Try these methods:

• Use your antivirus software: Some security programs, like Avast, Bitdefender, and Norton, have network security scans that detect router malware and DNS hijacking.
• Run a security check with your ISP: Some ISPs offer network security scans. Contact your ISP to see if they can check your router for suspicious activity.
• Check for unusual traffic: Use a network virus scan like GlassWire or Wireshark to inspect traffic patterns. If your router is sending large amounts of data to unknown servers, it may be infected.

Review router logs for suspicious activity

Router logs store activity data, including connection attempts, admin logins, and network traffic. Reviewing these logs can help you spot unusual behavior.

Here’s how to check your router logs:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel: Access it through your browser using the router’s IP address.
2. Find the log section: Look for System Logs, Security Logs, or Connection Logs (the exact name depends on your router model).
3. Check for unusual activity: 
   • Unauthorized login attempts: If there are multiple failed logins, someone may be trying to hack your router.
   • Unknown devices connecting: Devices you don’t recognize could indicate an attacker is inside your network.
   • Strange outbound connections: If your router is communicating with unknown IP addresses, it may be infected.

How to remove router malware

If you’ve found signs of a router virus, it’s critical to act fast. Router malware can spread to every device on your network, compromise your personal data, and even allow cybercriminals to control your internet traffic.

Reset your router to factory settings

A factory reset wipes your router’s settings, removing any malicious changes made by cybercriminals. This is the most effective way to eliminate router malware.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Find the reset button: Most routers have a small reset button on the back.
2. Press and hold the button: Use a paperclip or pin to hold the button for 10-30 seconds (refer to your router manual for the exact duration).
3. Wait for the router to restart: The lights may blink, and the device will reboot to its default settings.
4. Log in to the router: Use the default login credentials (found on the router label or in the manual).
5. Reconfigure your settings: Set up your Wi-Fi, update your password, and secure your network.

After a reset, your router should be malware-free, but without proper security, it could get reinfected. The next step is to change your admin password to prevent unauthorized access.

Change your router password

If a cybercriminal has access to your router, they may have changed your admin credentials. Resetting the router removes unauthorized users, but you still need to set a strong, unique password to keep them out.

Follow these steps:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel: Open a browser and enter your router’s IP address (192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
2. Enter the default credentials: If you haven’t changed them before, they’re usually listed on the router label.
3. Go to the password settings: Look for Administrator Settings or Security Settings.
4. Set a strong password: Use a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or personal details.
5. Save your changes and log in again with the new password.

This prevents attackers from using brute-force attacks or default credentials to take control again.

Read more: For more ways to secure your online accounts, check out our guide on free and open-source software for security.

Update your router firmware

Outdated firmware is one of the biggest security risks for routers. Manufacturers release updates to patch vulnerabilities, improve performance, and add new security features. If your router hasn’t been updated in a while, it could be an easy target for router malware.

Here’s how to update your router firmware:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel.
2. Find the firmware update section: It may be under Advanced Settings, Administration, or System Tools.
3. Check for updates: Some routers have an auto-update option—enable it if available.
4. Download and install updates: If manual installation is required, download the latest firmware from the manufacturer’s website and follow the instructions.
5. Restart your router: After updating, reboot your router to apply the changes.

How to protect your router from malware

Removing a router virus is only half the battle—keeping your network secure is just as important. Without proper protection, your router could get reinfected or even be used as an entry point for cybercriminals to access your devices.

Use strong and unique passwords

One of the easiest ways to protect your router is to set strong passwords for both your Wi-Fi network and router admin panel. Weak or default credentials make it easy for cybercriminals to take control.

Here’s what to do:

• Change your router’s default admin password: The first thing cybercriminals check is whether the default login credentials are still in place. Set a password that’s long, complex, and unique.
• Use a strong Wi-Fi password: Choose a WPA2 or WPA3 encryption method and set a passphrase that’s difficult to guess. Avoid common words or personal information.
• Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) if available: Some routers allow an extra layer of protection, such as requiring a code from your phone when logging in.

Using a password manager can help generate and store strong passwords securely.

Disable remote access when not needed

Remote access allows you to log in to your router from anywhere, but it also creates a security risk. Cybercriminals can exploit this feature to gain control of your router, especially if your password is weak. Turning off remote access closes a major entry point for cybercriminals and reduces the risk of router malware infections.

To disable remote access:

1. Log in to your router’s admin panel.
2. Look for Remote Management or Remote Access settings.
3. Disable the feature unless you absolutely need it.
4. If you must use remote access, limit access to specific IP addresses and use a strong password.

Regularly update your router’s firmware

Manufacturers release firmware updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve router performance. If your firmware is outdated, cybercriminals can exploit known flaws to infect your router.

To stay protected:

• Check for firmware updates every few months: Log in to your router’s settings and look for a Firmware Update section.
• Enable automatic updates if your router supports it.
• Download updates directly from the manufacturer’s website—never trust third-party sources.

Use antivirus software to protect your network

To strengthen your security:

• Install antivirus software on all devices: A good antivirus program can detect and remove malware before it spreads.
• Use a VPN to encrypt your traffic: A VPN, such as ExpressVPN’s router app, adds an extra layer of protection by encrypting your internet connection. This makes it harder for cybercriminals to intercept data.
• Enable a firewall: Many routers have built-in firewalls that block unauthorized access. Check your settings to make sure it’s turned on.

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What to do if your router keeps getting infected

If your router has been infected more than once, it’s a sign of a deeper security issue. Repeated infections can happen if malware persists through firmware vulnerabilities, weak security settings, or if your ISP-issued router is compromised.

If you’ve reset your router, changed passwords, and updated firmware but still experience problems, it’s time to take further action.

Contact your ISP for assistance

If you’re using a router provided by your ISP, you may have limited control over its settings and security updates. Some ISP-issued routers come with security flaws or outdated firmware that can be exploited by cybercriminals.

Here’s what to do:

• Report the issue: Call your ISP and explain that your router keeps getting infected. They may be able to run a network virus scan or detect unusual activity.
• Request a firmware update: If your router hasn’t been updated recently, ask if a newer version is available.
• Ask for a replacement: Some ISPs offer more secure models or routers with better protection against router malware.

Consider upgrading to a more secure router model

If you own your router, choosing a secure model with advanced protection features can help prevent future infections. Some routers come with built-in security tools like automatic firmware updates, strong firewall protection, and advanced encryption.

For greater control and security, consider a router that supports free and open-source software like DD-WRT or Tomato. These firmware options give you more flexibility in managing security settings, blocking malware, and customizing your network protection.

Here are some key benefits of DD-WRT and Tomato firmware:

• Regular security updates: Open-source firmware is maintained by a community of developers who release frequent updates to fix vulnerabilities.
• Advanced firewall and encryption options: These routers offer stronger security controls than many default ISP routers.
• More control over DNS settings: Prevent DNS hijacking on routers by setting up custom, secure DNS configurations.