- Improve Wi-Fi Signal: Elevate Router and Avoid Obstructions
- Beware of Interference: Opt for 5.8 GHz Devices
- Optimal Router Placement: Center of Home, Consider Antenna Replacement
People can make basic adjustments and adjustments to their homes to improve their Wi-Fi connection and obtain faster broadband speeds.
Simply relocating the box, elevating it on a shelf, or ensuring that it has the most recent update can significantly enhance your internet experience.
A Wi-Fi router is analogous to a lightbulb; therefore, anything in its path will reduce the amount of ‘light’ or internet connection you receive.
Putting your router on the floor is one of the simplest mistakes to make with it.
Walls, floors, and metal objects can interfere with and weaken your wireless router’s signals; therefore, if it’s situated on the ground, a portion of your service is going directly into the floorboards.
The frequencies can be improved by elevating the Wi-Fi unit five to seven feet above the ground.
Alex Tofts, from the broadband comparison service Broadband Genie, told, “The general rule is to look for any nearby obstructions that could pose a problem.”
Avoid situating it behind bulky furniture or next to other devices that may cause signal interference.
He added, “There are certain rooms in the house that can be particularly problematic, so in light of that, here are the areas where you should exercise caution.”
The most common wireless equipment uses 2.4 GHz, which homeowners should know.
However, this frequency is also utilized by cordless telephones, microwave appliances, baby monitors, and garage door openers.
Microsoft warns that their signal disturbance may interfere with the connection between your device and router.
People are encouraged to purchase cordless telephones and other devices that operate on 5.8 GHz frequencies to reduce interference.
The location of the box within the residence is also significant.
Locations in the center of your home or apartment offer the greatest signal coverage throughout the entire space.
Instead of the main floor, place your router on the first floor to reach devices on the second floor.
Toft explained that, in general, you want your router to be in the center of your residence, rather than at the edges.
According to Toft, attic space is not optimal for signal intensity.
‘Ideally, you should place your router on the ground floor in the center of your home, as this will give it the greatest chance of reaching every room.
‘Attic insulation can also make it more difficult to receive a stronger signal. If you need internet access in your attic, you should consider using a Wi-Fi extender.
Replacing the antenna on your router can also assist.
They typically broadcast in all directions, so if situated near a wall, half of your Wi-Fi will be transmitted outside.
Users can optimise router wireless signal direction by changing an omnidirectional antenna with a high-gain antenna.
If one device keeps dropping or slowing down, try an Ethernet cable.
If you have multiple devices competing for a Wi-Fi connection, it may be beneficial to connect stationary devices (TVs and game consoles) to a wired network to ensure they receive the fastest speeds.
This can also guarantee a stable connection to devices that stream Ultra-HD video.
Putting a security password on your Wi-Fi network is an apparent – but crucial – step for maximizing its performance.
Routers without a password are accessible to anyone in the area. This means that inquisitive neighbors may be consuming your energy without your knowledge.
