With the cost of energy remaining sky-high we're all looking for simple ways to cut down on our power usage. Of course, one of the easiest things to do is simply switch off devices such as TVs and consoles at the mains as this will stop any energy being used.
However, one thing you most definitely don't want to shut down is your Wi-Fi router as hitting the power button can wreak havoc with your internet speeds.
Although it's tempting to stop that little black box from flashing as you head to bed, there are lots that can go on throughout the night that makes sure this vital device stays running in tip-top condition.
A number of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) push out updates when most people aren't using the web and missing out on these software patches can leave routers exposed to bugs and data-stealing malware.
"We know our routers are put through their paces during the day – whether on video calls, streaming the latest show, or online gaming. That’s why our routers run firmware updates during the night, to avoid any unnecessary disruption during the day," said Aman Bhatti, Director of Propositions, Sky Broadband
"Switching off your router overnight can affect automatic software updates and optimisations which in turn can impact the overall performance, speed and stability of your Broadband."
So that's one reason to leave things on but that's not the only problem users face.
When you constantly turn things off and on again, it appears to ISPs that the line has become problematic.
This can then lead to firms placing speed restrictions on the broadband as they would rather keep you connected than let you go offline. If this happens you'll suddenly find downloads become a whole lot slower.
Explaining more, BT said: "Constantly switching off the hub makes the line look unstable, meaning that your speed may be automatically reduced to improve the reliability of your broadband connection."
So, if you want to keep your router safe and free from being slowed down, it's best to leave it on.
There are, of course, other ways to cut down on power. For example, Sky offers a useful mode on its Sky Q boxes which puts them into hibernation during the early hours of the night.
Samsung also has special options on its TVs which lower the screen brightness and launch dedicated screen savers which can reduce energy consumption.
