It’s extremely likely that you’re reading this web-page right now on a computer connected to the internet via a Wi-Fi network at home or your workplace. If you’re looking into this article specifically, it’s easy to presume that you’ve had Wi-Fi troubles. Here, we will help you with 7 ways to boost your home Wi-Fi.
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Invest in a good router
The latest and fastest Wi-Fi standard, 802.11ac is nearly three times faster than the previous standard 802.11n. What this means is every 802.11ac antenna can beam up to 1300 Mb/s of data, as opposed to about 450 Mb/s for an n router. Here’s simple speak. The easiest way to get better performance and speeds in your Wi-Fi network is to get a new 802.11ac router.
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Look for the right spot for your router
Ensure that you have the router at the most efficient, optimal spot. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi signals loathe water. They’re also not too friendly with brick, metal, glass and insulation as these materials will more than likely impede and obstruct a good Wi-Fi signal. The best spot is an unobstructed open space. Located centrally and high off the floor.
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Check and analyze your signal strength
A few feeble feet can make or break a Wi-Fi connection. Use mobile apps like Amped Wireless’s Wi-Fi Analytics Tool, or Assia’s Cloudcheck to canvass your home and locate dead spots. This will make the difference between a strong and a weak Wi-Fi reception.
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Try changing router channels
Since older, legacy Wi-Fi routers are likely to have interference from other devices that operate on the same spectrum, channel changes are recommended. This is because products like cordless phones, Bluetooth headsets or even the neighbor’s wireless network can interfere with your router. An app like WiEye for Android will do the job for you, by letting you view all the wireless networks nearby and check to see what channels they’re on.
Once you determine this, change your router channels, which will help curb any outside interferences. Most modern routers use 11 channels (essentially radio frequencies) and are by default, set to 1, 6 or 11. This is to ensure that the frequencies don’t overlap each other. In other words, if your neighbor’s network is set to 6, set yours to 1 or 11. Better routers that operate on the 5 GHz range that include 802.11a, n and ac are broadcasted over 23 channels, making them even more resistant to interference.
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Use wires where and when possible
The fastest Wi-Fi speeds will still never trump a wired, fixed Internet connection. So, if you want your media player to run without buffering or ensure that your multiplayer gaming experience on your XBOX of PlayStation is as smooth as can be, plug in an Ethernet cable from your router to your console or device, to get the best connection possible.
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Use both available bands
Plenty of routers operate on radios that run on two separate frequencies, namely 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. With this, you have the option to have two networks running in tandem at the same time, one at a lower frequency and the other at a higher. This helps devices that specifically access the wireless network on a lower frequency and others which connect to a higher one. In doing so, your mobile phones, laptops etc., connect to the higher frequency and aren’t bogged down on a network that’s also encumbered by devices running on a lower frequency.
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Update Router Firmware regularly
As a fundamental flaw, updating the router firmware is regularly overlooked by most consumers, predominantly home users. There is usually a section within the router’s interface that allows the user to update a firmware and moreover, the vendor’s website will always provide the means to search and download a firmware update that helps in bug fixes and connectivity concerns.
Conclusion
While it’s taken for granted, Wi-Fi and internet connectivity is fundamental to our way of living in today’s world. The above 7 ways to boost your home Wi-Fi that will help to resolve most of Wi-Fi issues at home or work and if you have any further queries, we welcome you to share them in the comments below!
