What end of support means
A router is
end of support when its maker no longer supplies normal security maintenance for that model or revision. It may still route traffic perfectly, but newly discovered flaws may never receive a fix. A factory reset restores settings; it does not invent a patch.
Example
A router's product page shows years-old firmware and a formal retirement notice. You should verify the exact hardware revision and whether an internet provider supplies its own managed updates before deciding. NIST's
consumer-router requirements emphasize secure software updates and user notification as important capabilities.
A practical response
Plan a supported replacement, record only necessary settings and avoid copying old port exposures. Until replaced, remove unused remote-management access and disconnect unnecessary devices. Do not assume a new Wi-Fi password compensates for missing firmware fixes. If an ISP supplied the router, ask whether it receives provider-managed updates before buying hardware yourself.
