Turning off Wi-Fi while on vacation: 7 ways to save money and secure your network

When going on vacation, most users forget about their home router, which continues to run idle. Meanwhile, Disabling Wi-Fi while you're away solves three problems at once: reduces the risk of network hacking, saves energy, and extends the service life of equipment. According to Kaspersky Lab, 38% of cyberattacks on home networks occur during extended absences of the owners, when vulnerabilities go undetected.

But simply pulling the plug isn't always the best solution. Modern routers (for example, ASUS RT-AX88U or TP-Link Archer C5400) have built-in scheduling, guest networking, and power saving features that allow Disable Wi-Fi correctlywithout disrupting other smart home devices. In this article, we'll cover all the methods—from manual shutdown to automatic scenarios—and explain why some methods can harm your equipment.

Why You Shouldn't Leave Wi-Fi On While on Vacation

Many people think that a router consumes minimal energy in standby mode, but this is not true. Even in "sleep" mode, the device still consumes from 5 to 15 W/hour (depending on the model), which over a month of vacation adds up to 3–12 kW—the same as running a refrigerator at medium power. But the main concern isn't the electricity bill, but safety.

Here are three key threats that arise from leaving the network active:

• 🔓 Hacking through firmware vulnerabilitiesAttackers scan networks for routers with outdated software (for example, D-Link DIR-615 or Zyxel Keenetic until 2021) and use them to attack other devices.
• 📡 Connecting to your networkEven if you've disabled guest access, experienced hackers can still brute-force the password to your main network (especially if it's simple, like 12345678).
• ⚡ Equipment overheatingIn hot rooms, a router without a load may overheat, which reduces the lifespan of the capacitors.

In addition, some providers (eg Rostelecom or Beeline) can block your IP address for "suspicious activity" if your network becomes part of a botnet. Restoring access after this is only possible by calling support—and that's an extra headache upon your return.

Method 1: Completely disconnect the router from the power outlet

The most radical and reliable method is to physically disconnect the device from power. This is guaranteed to stop all network processes, but it's not suitable for everyone. For example, if you have smart home devices (Xiaomi Mi Home, Google Nest), they will stop working without the Internet.

How to turn it off correctly:

1. Disconnect all cables (LAN, WAN) from the router.
2. Press the power button (if available) or unplug the power cord.
3. If the router is connected via PoE (Power over Ethernet), disconnect the patch cord.

⚠️ Attention: Some models (eg MikroTik hAP ac²) have built-in batteries for backup power. After unplugging, they can remain active for up to 30 minutes. To completely power down such a device, hold the reset button for 10 seconds.

Method 2: Disabling Wi-Fi via the router's web interface

If you need to leave the router on (for example, for work IP telephony or NAS servers), but to disable only the wireless network, do this through the admin panel. The instructions are universal for most models, but the menu paths may vary.

General algorithm:

1. Connect to the router via cable or another Wi-Fi (if you have more than one).
2. Enter the IP address of the device into the browser (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
3. Log in (default logins: admin/admin or see the sticker on the body).
4. Go to the section Wireless network → Wi-Fi settings.
5. Uncheck the box Enable Wireless.
6. Save the settings and reboot the router.

For routers TP-Link the path will be like this:

Advanced → Wireless → Wireless Settings → Uncheck "Enable Wireless Router Radio"

⚠️ Attention: On some models (eg, Keenetic) disabling Wi-Fi does not block the work guest network. It must be deactivated separately in the section Guest network.

What should I do if my router stops responding after disconnecting Wi-Fi?

If you've disabled Wi-Fi but aren't connected via cable, you'll lose access to settings. In this case:

1. Connect to the router via Ethernet cable.

2. If this is not possible, reset the settings using the button Reset (hold for 10-15 seconds).

3. After resetting, configure the router again, first turning on Wi-Fi.

Method 3: Using the shutdown scheduler (timer)

Modern routers (for example, ASUS RT-AX58U, Netgear Nighthawk) support the function planner, which allows you to automatically turn off Wi-Fi on a schedule. This is convenient if you're going away for a fixed period (for example, two weeks) and don't want to waste time adjusting the settings manually.

How to set up a scheduler using an example ASUS:

1. Log into your router's web interface.
2. Go to Wireless Network → Scheduler.
3. Specify the days and times of shutdown (for example, from 00:00 01.07.2026 By 23:59 15.07.2026).
4. Select an option Disable wireless network.
5. Save the rules and apply the settings.

On routers Keenetic a similar function is called Access schedule and is located in the section Home Network → DevicesThere you can create a rule to turn off Wi-Fi for a certain period.

⚠️ Attention: If you use Mesh system (For example, Google Nest WiFi or TP-Link Deco), the scheduler may not work correctly. In this case, disable Wi-Fi manually through the main app (for example, Deco or Google Home).

Method 4: Disabling Wi-Fi via a mobile app

Router manufacturers release official apps that allow you to manage your network remotely. This is convenient if you've already left but forgot to turn off your Wi-Fi. For example, the app TP-Link Tether or ASUS Router provide access to basic functions even outside the home network (provided that the router is connected to the Internet).

Instructions for TP-Link Tether:

1. Open the application and log in.
2. Select your router from the list of devices.
3. Go to the section Wireless (or Wi-Fi).
4. Turn off the switch Wireless Radio.
5. Confirm the action.

For routers Keenetic the application is used Keenetic (available for iOS And Android). Path: Device → Wi-Fi → Disable network.

⚠️ Attention: Remote management only works if the router is connected to the internet via the WAN port. If your ISP uses PPPoE With MAC address binding, access may be limited.

Method 5: Disable only 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz

If you need to leave one of the frequencies working (for example, for smart devices that only support 2.4 GHz), you can only turn it off 5 GHz Or vice versa. This will reduce power consumption and the risk of hacking, while maintaining the functionality of critical devices.

How to do this with an example ASUS RT-AX55:

1. Go to the web interface.
2. Go to Wireless → General.
3. Select a tab 5GHz (or 2.4GHz).
4. Uncheck the box Enable Radio.
5. Save the settings.

On routers MikroTik (firmware RouterOS) command to disable 5 GHz through WinBox:

/interface wireless set [find default-name=wlan2] disabled=yes

⚠️ Attention: Some smart home devices (eg. Roborock or Yeelight) may stop working when disconnected 2.4 GHz, even if 5 GHz active. Check the compatibility of your gadgets before your trip.

Method 6: Resetting the router to factory settings (last resort)

If you are unsure about the security of your current settings (for example, your router has not been updated for a long time or you suspect a hack), you can perform full resetThis will disable Wi-Fi and reset all settings to factory defaults, eliminating the risk of data leaks. However, you'll have to set up the network again afterward.

How to reset a router:

• 🔧 Press and hold the button Reset (usually located on the rear panel) during 10-15 seconds.
• 💡 Wait until the indicators start flashing (reset signal).
• 🔄 After rebooting, the router will be like new - with the default network name (for example, TP-LINK_XXXX) and a standard password.

⚠️ Attention: Reset deletes all settings, including:

• 📝 Saved Wi-Fi passwords;
• 🔐 Firewall and port forwarding rules;
• 📡 Settings DMZ And UPnP;
• 📋 Lists of allowed/blocked devices.

If you have a complex configuration (for example, VPN server or DDNS), before resetting save a backup copy of your settings via the web interface (section Administration → Backup/Restore).

How to restore settings after a reset?

1. Connect to the router via cable (Wi-Fi will be disabled).

2. Go to the web interface at 192.168.1.1 (or another one indicated on the sticker).

3. Enter the default login/password (usually admin/admin).

4. In the section Restore Load a previously saved copy of the settings.

Method 7: Disabling your internet connection from your provider (for complete isolation)

If you want to completely block external access to your network, you can temporarily suspend your internet service with your provider. This is relevant if:

• 🏠 You leave the router on for local devices (eg. NAS or IP cameras), but want to block external connections;
• 🔒 Your plan includes static IP, which may be the target of attacks;
• 💰 You pay for traffic and want to avoid unauthorized use.

How to do it:

1. Call your provider's support (numbers: Rostelecom — 8 800 100 08 00, Beeline — 0611).
2. Say what you want temporarily suspend Internet service for the duration of the vacation.
3. Check if yours will be saved IP address (important if you have a white IP for remote access).
4. Once you return, please call again to reconnect.

⚠️ Attention: Some providers charge a fee for suspending service (eg. MTS — 50–100 ₽/month). Check the rates in advance.

What to do before disabling Wi-Fi: A safety checklist

Before you deactivate the network, follow these steps to avoid problems when you return:

We also recommend:

• 🔄 Reboot your router before disabling - this will reset temporary files and close possible vulnerabilities.
• 📋 Write down the current settings (network name, password, IP address) on paper or in a secure file.
• 🔌 Disconnect the cables from the router if you leave it without power (to avoid damage to ports during power surges).

If you have dual-band router, before disconnecting, check what devices are connected to 2.4 GHz, and which ones - to 5 GHzThis will help avoid problems with your smart home upon your return.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about disabling Wi-Fi

Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi without affecting the cable connection?

Yes, in the router settings you can deactivate only the wireless network, leaving it running Ethernet and the Internet. This is useful if stationary devices are connected to the router (for example, Smart TV or game console), which do not require Wi-Fi.

Will the router consume power if Wi-Fi is turned off but the device itself is on?

Yes, but significantly less. In wireless mode, the router consumes 2–5 W/hour (against 8–15 W (with Wi-Fi active). However, if you don't need a cable connection, it's best to completely power off the device.

How can I check if someone has connected to my network while I was away?

After returning, go to the router's web interface and look at the list of connected devices (DHCP Clients List or Connected Devices). If you see unfamiliar MAC addresses, change your Wi-Fi password and update the firmware.

Is it possible to disable Wi-Fi via SMS or call?

No, such features are not available in standard routers. However, some models (for example, Huawei B535) support management through Huawei HiLink- an application where you can create a shutdown rule based on an event (for example, the geolocation of your smartphone).

What happens to smart home devices if you turn off Wi-Fi?

Depends on the device:

• 💡 Smart bulbs (Xiaomi Yeelight, Philips Hue) - will stop working, but will retain the settings.
• 🔒 Smart locks (Nuki, Aqara) - are blocked and require manual opening with a key.
• 📹 IP cameras (Ezviz, Hikvision) - will stop broadcasting video, but can record to a memory card.

Before disabling, check if your device supports it. offline mode.