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Just last week, Express.co.uk reported that giving your router a quick reboot every now and again can help to boost broadband speeds. A reset is a great idea as it can clear issues that might be affecting those all-important downloads. "A quick reboot can clear temporary issues, refresh the connection, and help resolve slow speeds or dropouts," Virgin Media explained. So yes, a short, sharp power down once in a while is a good idea, but hitting the power button too often can have exactly the opposite effect.

In fact, turning off the router before heading to bed can actually lead to much slower speeds and even put homes at risk.

So what's the issue with powering down?

There are two main things to consider. Firstly, constantly turning off that flashing black box can make your Internet Service Provider (ISP) think that there's a fault with the connection. As a result, automatic systems may be put in place to reduce your broadband speed in an attempt to maintain a stable service.

The second reason to leave the power on is that routers often receive important software and security updates overnight.

If your router is powered down, it could miss these updates, potentially affecting both speed and security.

Explaining more, BT said, "Keep your hub switched on and connected at all times. This helps us give you the fastest and most stable service, and makes sure it stays up to date.

"Switching the hub off regularly can make the line appear unstable. This may cause your speed to be reduced to keep the connection reliable."

Sky also offers similar advice with the firm saying, "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."

To help get the very best connection, BT recommends keeping your router in an open space and away from electronic devices that can interfere with the signal, such as baby monitors, cordless phones, microwave ovens and even fish tanks. Avoid placing it inside cupboards or in direct sunlight.

It's worth doing regular speed checks on your broadband via services such as Google's online test or Speedtest.net as these will show how well things are performing.

The bottom line: if you want the best possible broadband performance, it's best to leave your router switched on overnight.