As much as we have made great progress by being able to wirelessly connect to the internet, sometimes we may still have problems with Wi-Fi. This is because the connection relies on radio waves to connect to the internet. Interference and signal range limits may be the cause of Wi-Fi issues.
Here are some things that can help you with your Wi-Fi woes:
Place the Furniture along the walls
When you are at home, you can start by putting large furniture along the exterior walls of your home. Sometimes the furniture in your house blocks the signal and once the furniture has been rearranged, the signal would be stronger and the reception much better. When you put large furniture along the walls of your home, Wifi signals don’t have to travel through large, cumbersome furniture.
Reduce reflective surfaces
Minimising mirrors can also provide a stronger connection as they provide a reflective surface for the Wi-Fi signals. This also includes the thin metal layer found in most mirrors.
Place the Router in a Central Area
Where you place, your router can make an extreme difference as placement can affect performance. As radio waves travel downwards and laterally, it would be better to place the router near the center of the house, preferably on a top floor. If you do not have a top floor, you can place it on a wall mount or high shelf. Do not put the router on the floor.
Place your Wi-Fi router away from your neighbors as their router may be broadcasting on the same signal. If this doesn’t make a difference, then choose a different channel from that of your neighbor’s. The router should also be placed away from cordless phones and microwaves as they are on the same 2.4Ghz frequency. If possible, look into cordless phones and appliances that are Wi-Fi friendly. Keep the router away from power cords, computer wires, baby monitors, and halogen lamps as these provide interference through wires and waves.
Use a Repeater or Wireless Bridge
Try using a repeater or wireless bridge to improve reception. You can install a wireless signal repeater as it extends coverage without wires or hassles. It should be placed between your access point and computer. An Ethernet converter or wireless bridge can assist wired devices as it adds a few bars and improves reception on wired devices.
Change the channel of the Wi-Fi
Changing from WEP to WPA/WPA2 can make a big difference. WEP is not as secure as the WPA/WPA2, so not only are you strengthening the connection, bout you are also keeping the connection secure from hackers. Try limiting the number of devices that connect to the internet. You may use a device access list of MAC addresses (“Media Access Control” identifier) for devices that are generally used. Keep your network name private to prevent other people from accessing your Wi-Fi.
Use aluminum foil to boost the signal
You can use kitchen foil as it would reflect Wi-Fi signals. Just place a curved sheet of aluminum foil on its side behind the router and you should see an increase in speed in a matter of minutes.
For any further help with your home’s wifi signal strength, get in touch with ACE today. or check out our quick list of 5 ways to check your Wi-Fi.
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