13 WIFI extender tips your internet service provider wont tell you!

Wi-Fi is an essential part of our daily lives, whether we’re streaming our favorite shows or working from home. However, slow internet speeds and weak signals can be frustrating and cause disruptions. Fortunately, there are various ways how to boost your wifi signal and improve your internet connectivity. In this article, we’ll share ten effective ways to boost your Wi-Fi signal for a smoother online experience.

 

Key takeaways:

 

1. Wifi extenders are a great way to boost your wifi signal around the house or business and save you from getting into anything super technical! There are multiple models to suit anyone’s needs, both mesh units and single models.
2. Ensure your modem is placed in a central position in the building, making sure no solid objects may block the signal
3. Make sure you’re utilizing the right wifi frequency! 2.4ghz is great for longer distances but slower speeds, whereabouts 5Ghz is fast at short distances.
4. Make sure your modem, pc, mobile phone, and network cards are up to date to ensure the best quality speeds can be obtained on your device.
5. Check how old your modem is! Technology moves fast, which means it can become obsolete fast. You should check your device every 5 years with its current capabilities with today’s tech. It may be outdated causing a poor wifi experience!

 

Table of Contents

1. How to set up a network from comms cabinets in your garage
2. How to boost your wifi around home
3. Wifi extender’s
4. Mesh Wi-Fi System
5. How to a central location for your modem
6. How to move your router off the floor to improve your wifi
7. Reduce wireless interference
8. How to change your wireless channel to improve your wifi
9. Control Bandwidth-Hungry Applications and Clients
10. Ensure your device is using the correct frequency (2.4ghz & 5ghz)

 

Some common reasons why you will need to boost your wifi

 

 

If you’re facing a slow internet connection or poor signal strength in certain areas of your home or office, you might need to extend your WiFi network. Moreover, having multiple devices connected to your network, and interference from neighboring WiFi networks, can also affect the performance of your WiFi connection.

 

By boosting the strength of your WiFi network, you can enhance the speed and reliability of your connection, resulting in a smoother streaming experience, seamless online gaming, and faster downloads. Here are some common issues that may indicate that it’s time to look into getting a wifi extender.

 

Your primary modem is away from where you use the internet mostly used

If your modem is far away from your device, your WiFi may go slower due to a weaker signal. When your device sends a request for data to the modem, the modem sends a signal back with the requested data. However, the signal strength decreases as it travels through the air and any obstacles in its path, such as walls or furniture. If the signal is weak by the time it reaches your device, it can cause slower data transfer rates, longer loading times, and buffering while streaming.

In addition, if your modem is too far away, the signal may not even reach your device, resulting in a loss of connection altogether. Have a look at where your modem is placed, is it in the comms cabinet in the garage? Is it in the main room where you are trying to use the internet? Where the signal is weak, is the modem in the same room? If you’re answering no to these questions it may require a reposition or an extender to resolve this.

 

You have a large or odd-shaped house

If you have a large or oddly shaped house, it can impact your WiFi signal and cause connectivity issues. WiFi signals are transmitted through the air, and they can be weakened by obstacles such as walls, floors, and ceilings. In a large or multi-story house, the signal may not be strong enough to reach all areas, resulting in dead zones or weak signals.

Moreover, an odd-shaped house with many rooms, hallways, or corners can create areas of interference, where the signal bounces off walls and creates interference or weak spots. This can result in slower data transfer rates, dropped connections, and buffering while streaming.

To overcome these issues, you can use WiFi extenders or mesh networks to boost your signal strength and extend your WiFi range. Draw a map of your house, dot down where the router is, and dot down where you’re getting low signal bars. This will help indicate that the wifi is struggling to reach these areas. Doing this will help you understand where you can place an extender to fix this!

 

There are areas in your home that don’t get a WiFi signal or a weak signal

Unfortunately, wifi does not reach everywhere, there are many factors that can cause this to happen. If your laptop or phone shows a weak signal icon then it may be time to look at getting a wifi extender!

By using a WiFi extender, you can improve the coverage and reliability of your WiFi network, especially in large homes or areas with multiple floors. It can help eliminate dead zones and ensure that you have a strong and stable connection throughout your home.

Overall, if you’re experiencing a weak WiFi signal in certain areas of your home, a WiFi extender can be a helpful solution to improve your network coverage and ensure that you have a strong and stable connection wherever you are in your home.

 

Internet speeds are slow in areas of your home

If you are experiencing slow internet speeds in certain areas of your home, a WiFi extender may not be the best solution. In fact, it may actually make the problem worse.

A WiFi extender works by repeating the existing signal from your router, but it also introduces some latency or delays in the signal transmission, which can slow down your internet speeds even further. Additionally, if the WiFi extender is placed too far away from the main router, it may not be able to receive a strong enough signal to boost effectiveness.

In cases where slow internet speeds are the problem, it’s best to troubleshoot the root cause of the issue. This could involve checking for interference from other devices or networks, upgrading your internet plan or equipment, or even relocating your router to a more central location in your home.

 

You have solid internal walls or the modem is placed in a faraday cage

A WiFi extender can be a helpful solution if you have solid internal walls or your modem is placed in a Faraday cage, as these can both block or weaken your WiFi signal. Solid internal walls can block or weaken WiFi signals, especially if they are made of thick materials such as concrete or brick. Similarly, a Faraday cage, which is designed to block electromagnetic radiation, can also hinder WiFi signal transmission.

By using a WiFi extender, you can help overcome these obstacles and extend the coverage area of your WiFi network. The extender can receive the existing WiFi signal from your router and rebroadcast it to areas of your home that may be blocked by walls or other obstacles.

 

How to set up a network from comms cabinets in your garage 

Setting up a network from comms cabinets in your garage can be a great way to improve your home’s internet connectivity and access especially when your modem is locked away in the garage. Here are the steps you can follow to set up a network from comms cabinets in your garage:

1. 1. Assess your needs: Determine what you need your network for and how many devices you plan to connect. This will help you choose the right equipment and plan for your network.

 

1. 1. Install network equipment: Install a modem and a router in your comms cabinet in the garage. The modem will connect to your internet service provider’s network, while the router will distribute the internet connection to all devices on your network. You may also want to consider installing a network switch or hub to expand the number of wired connections available.

 

1. 1. Run cables: Connect Ethernet cables from the router or switch to the rooms in your house where you want to connect devices. Consider running cables through walls or under the floor to keep them out of sight.

 

1. 1. Configure your network: Log in to your router’s configuration page to set up your network. This includes choosing a network name and password, configuring security settings, and setting up any additional features you want, such as parental controls or a guest network.

 

1. 1. Test and troubleshoot: Test your network to ensure that all devices can connect and that you’re getting a strong and stable signal. If you encounter any issues, troubleshoot by checking cables, resetting equipment, or contacting your internet service provider for assistance.

 

 

Do you want WiFi outside?

You may want wifi in your entertainment area outside! A wifi extender is perfect for boosting your wifi outdoors. There are many models that are designed to be installed outside providing weatherproof cases to protect it and keep you online whilst you bathe in nature!

How to boost your wifi around home

1. A wifi extender

 

WiFi extenders, also known as WiFi boosters or repeaters, are devices that help to expand the coverage area of your WiFi network. They work by receiving the existing WiFi signal from your router and amplifying it, extending the range and strength of the signal. This ensures that your devices receive a stronger signal, resulting in faster speeds and improved connectivity.

 

How do wifi extenders work

WiFi extenders work by receiving the signal from your router and transmitting it to your devices. They are designed to be placed in an area where the existing signal is weak, but not completely dead. Once the extender is in place, it will pick up the signal from your router and retransmit it, extending the range of your WiFi network.

 

Why are WiFi Extenders Important?

WiFi extenders are important because they help to improve the overall performance of your WiFi network. If you have a large home or office space, there may be areas where the signal is weak or non-existent. This can be frustrating, especially if you are trying to work, stream, or game. By using a WiFi extender, you can ensure that you have a strong and stable signal throughout your home or office.

 

Types of wifi extenders

There are several types of WiFi extenders available on the market today. These include:

1. 1. Wireless Range Extender: This is the most basic type of WiFi extender, which amplifies the wireless signal and extends the coverage area. It receives the signal from the router and rebroadcasts it, providing a wider coverage area.

 

1. 1. Powerline WiFi Extenders: This type of extender uses your home’s electrical wiring to create a wired connection between the router and the extender, providing a stronger and more reliable connection. The extender usually has two units, one unit connects to the router wirelessly / wired, plugs into an electrical outlet, and uses the powerline network to transmit data to the next unit which typically connects wirelessly with the first unit.

 

1. 1. Desktop WiFi Extenders: These extenders are similar to wireless range extenders but are designed to be placed on a desk or table. They often have more powerful antennas and more features than traditional range extenders.

 

1. 1. Outdoor WiFi Extenders: These extenders are designed to be placed outside and can withstand the elements. They are ideal for extending the coverage of your WiFi network to your yard, patio, or pool area.

 

1. 1. Mesh WiFi Systems: Mesh WiFi systems consist of multiple devices that work together to provide seamless coverage throughout your home. They use a network of nodes that communicate with each other to provide a strong and reliable signal.

 

 

The Difference between Wifi Extenders and Wifi Repeaters

 

While Wi-Fi extenders and Wi-Fi repeaters may seem similar, there are some key differences between these two devices that you should be aware of.

 

Firstly, Wi-Fi extenders work by amplifying your existing Wi-Fi signal, while Wi-Fi repeaters work by retransmitting your Wi-Fi signal at a higher power level. This means that Wi-Fi extenders are typically better suited for improving signal strength in areas where the signal is weak, while Wi-Fi repeaters are better suited for extending the range of your Wi-Fi signal.

 

Another key difference between Wi-Fi extenders and Wi-Fi repeaters is that Wi-Fi extenders typically require no special software or configuration, while Wi-Fi repeaters may require some configuration or setup to work properly.

 

How to Choose the Right WiFi Extender

When choosing a WiFi extender, there are several factors that you should consider. These include:

1. 1. Range: The range of the extender is an important factor to consider. Make sure that the extender you choose is capable of covering the area that you need it to.

 

1. 1. Speed: The speed of the extender is also important. Make sure that the extender you choose is capable of delivering the speeds that you require.

 

1. 1. Compatibility: Make sure that the extender you choose is compatible with your existing router and devices.

 

1. 1. Ease of Installation: Choose an extender that is easy to install and set up. Most WiFi extenders come with a user manual and can be set up in just

 

 

Getting your wifi Extender Professional Installed

Getting your Wi-Fi extender professionally installed can provide several benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of hiring a professional to install your Wi-Fi extender:

 

• • Proper Placement: A professional installer can determine the optimal placement for your Wi-Fi extender, ensuring that it is placed in a location that will provide the best coverage and speed. They can take into account factors such as the layout of your home or office, the location of your existing Wi-Fi router, and any potential sources of interference.

 

• • Avoiding Interference: A professional installer can also help you avoid interference issues that can negatively impact your Wi-Fi signal. They can identify potential sources of interference, such as other wireless devices or appliances, and recommend solutions to minimize their impact.

 

• • Maximizing Performance: A professional installer can ensure that your Wi-Fi extender is set up correctly and configured for optimal performance. They can adjust settings such as the Wi-Fi channel, security protocols, and network name (SSID) to ensure that your extender is providing the best possible coverage and speed.

 

• • Troubleshooting: If you experience any issues with your Wi-Fi extender, a professional installer can provide troubleshooting assistance and support. They can help you diagnose and resolve any issues, such as connectivity problems, speed issues, or configuration errors.

 

• • Saving Time and Effort: Installing a Wi-Fi extender can be time-consuming and challenging, especially if you are not familiar with networking technology. Hiring a professional installer can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the installation is completed quickly and efficiently.

 

 

Benefits of Plug & Play Wifi Extenders

Plug-and-play extenders offer several benefits for users who want to extend their WiFi coverage without the need for professional installation. Here are some of the key benefits of plug-n-go WiFi extenders:

 

• • Easy Setup: Plug-n-go WiFi extenders are designed to be easy to set up, without the need for technical knowledge or expertise. Users can simply plug the extender into a power outlet, connect to their existing WiFi network, and begin extending their coverage.

 

• • Convenience: Plug-n-go WiFi extenders offer a convenient solution for users who want to extend their WiFi coverage without the need for wires or complicated installation processes. They can be easily moved from room to room or taken on the go, providing flexible coverage options.

 

• • Affordability: Plug-n-go WiFi extenders are typically more affordable than professionally installed extenders, making them an attractive option for users on a budget.

 

• • Compatibility: Most plug-n-go WiFi extenders are compatible with a wide range of devices and WiFi networks, making them a versatile option for users who need to extend their coverage in various settings.

 

• • Increased Coverage: By extending the WiFi coverage area, plug-and-go WiFi extenders can improve connectivity and eliminate dead zones in the home or office. This can enhance productivity, entertainment, and communication capabilities.

 

 

2. Set Up a Mesh Wi-Fi System

 

A mesh WiFi system is a type of wireless network that consists of multiple interconnected access points, or nodes, that work together to provide seamless WiFi coverage throughout a home or office. Unlike traditional WiFi systems that rely on a single router to provide coverage, mesh WiFi systems use multiple nodes to create a mesh network that can provide stronger and more reliable coverage, with no dead zones.

 

Here are the basic steps to set up a mesh WiFi system:

• • Choose a Mesh WiFi System: There are many different mesh WiFi systems available on the market, so it is important to choose one that meets your needs in terms of coverage, speed, and features. Some popular options include Grandstream, Google Nest WiFi, Amazon eero, and Netgear Orbi.

 

• • Position the Nodes: Once you have chosen a mesh WiFi system, you will need to position the nodes in optimal locations throughout your home or office. The nodes should be placed in areas where you need the strongest coverage, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.

 

• • Connect the Nodes: Once the nodes are in position, you can connect them to your existing network using Ethernet cables or wirelessly, depending on the specific mesh WiFi system you are using. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to connect each node to the network and configure the system.

 

• • Configure the Settings: After connecting the nodes, you may need to configure the settings for your mesh WiFi system. This can include setting up the network name and password, enabling features such as parental controls and guest access, and adjusting the network settings for optimal performance.

 

• Test and Troubleshoot: Once the system is configured, it is important to test the network and troubleshoot any issues that may arise. You may need to adjust the placement of the nodes or adjust the settings to optimize coverage and speed.

 

A mesh WiFi system is a type of wireless network that uses multiple interconnected nodes to provide seamless coverage throughout a home or office. To set up a mesh WiFi system, you will need to choose a system, position the nodes, connect the nodes, configure the settings, and test and troubleshoot the network.

 

3. Choose a central location for your modem

 

Choosing a central location for your modem can help to boost your WiFi signal and improve the overall coverage and performance of your wireless network. Here’s why:

• Reduce Obstacles: By placing your modem in a central location, you can reduce the number of obstacles that can interfere with your WiFi signal. This can include walls, furniture, appliances, and other objects that can obstruct or weaken the signal.
• Maximize Coverage: A central location can help to maximize the coverage area of your WiFi network, ensuring that all areas of your home or office can receive a strong and reliable signal.
• Improve Performance: A strong and reliable WiFi signal can improve the performance of your network, making it faster and more responsive. This can enhance productivity, entertainment, and communication capabilities.

 

Here are some tips on how to choose a central location for your modem:

1. Consider the Layout: When choosing a central location for your modem, consider the layout of your home or office. Look for areas that are in the middle of the space and can provide the most coverage to all areas.
2. Avoid Obstructions: Avoid placing your modem near walls, corners, or other obstructions that can weaken the signal. Keep it away from large appliances or other electronics that can cause interference.
3. Choose an Elevated Position: Placing your modem in an elevated position, such as on a shelf or table, can help to improve the range and coverage of your WiFi network.
4. Use a Longer Cable: If necessary, use a longer Ethernet cable to connect your modem to the wall jack. This can provide more flexibility in terms of placement and allow you to choose a central location that is not limited by cable length.

 

By choosing a central location for your modem, you can optimize your WiFi network and ensure that you have strong and reliable coverage throughout your home or office.

 

4. Move your router off the floor

Moving your router off the floor can have a significant impact on your WiFi signal strength and the overall performance of your wireless network. One reason for this is that placing your router on the floor can cause interference from physical barriers such as walls and floors, as well as from materials like concrete and metal that are commonly found on the ground. By moving your router to an elevated location, you can reduce this interference and improve the quality of your WiFi signal.

 

Another benefit of moving your router off the floor is that it can increase the visibility of the signal and reduce obstructions. When your router is elevated, it has a clearer line of sight to other devices and can more easily penetrate obstacles such as furniture and walls. This can help the signal reach more areas of your home or office and provide a stronger, more consistent connection. Additionally, by moving your router to a central location that is not obstructed by furniture or other objects, you can improve the coverage and performance of your wireless network.

 

Here are some tips on how to move your router off the floor to boost your WiFi signal:

 

1. Find an Elevated Location: Look for an elevated location that is central to your home or office. This could be a high shelf, a table, or a wall-mounted bracket. The location should be open and free of obstructions.
2. Use a Longer Cable: If necessary, use a longer Ethernet cable to connect your router to the wall jack. This can provide more flexibility in terms of placement and allow you to choose an elevated location that is not limited by cable length.
3. Adjust the Antennas: If your router has adjustable antennas, adjust them to a vertical position for optimal performance.
4. Test and Adjust: After moving your router, test the signal strength in different areas of your home or office. If necessary, adjust the position of the router to optimize coverage and signal strength.

 

By moving your router off the floor and to an elevated location, you can significantly boost your WiFi signal and improve the coverage and performance of your wireless network.

 

5. Reduce wireless interference

 

Reducing wireless interference is one of the key ways to boost your WiFi signal and improve the overall performance of your wireless network. Here are some tips on how to reduce wireless interference and enjoy a faster, more reliable internet experience:

 

• Use a Stronger Channel: Many routers default to using the same channel as nearby networks, which can cause interference. To avoid this, try changing the channel on your router to a stronger one with less interference from other networks.

 

• Use Wired Connections: Wired connections, such as Ethernet cables, can provide faster and more reliable connections than wireless ones. If possible, try to connect devices to your router using wired connections instead of WiFi.

 

• Avoid Wireless Interference: Other wireless devices, such as cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens, can interfere with your WiFi signal. Try to keep these devices away from your router and use wired connections instead if possible.

 

By reducing wireless interference, you can improve the overall performance of your wireless network and enjoy faster, more reliable internet speeds.  Implementing these tips can help you get the most out of your WiFi and enjoy a better online experience.

 

6. Replace your device’s wireless card-based network adapter

 

A wireless network adapter is a hardware device that allows your computer or mobile device to connect to a wireless network. The adapter communicates with the router, allowing you to access the internet and other network resources. However, not all wireless adapters are created equal. Older devices may use outdated technology that can limit your WiFi speed and range.

 

Replacing your device’s wireless card-based network adapter with a newer model can significantly boost your WiFi performance. Here’s how:

 

• Faster Speeds: Newer wireless adapters use faster and more efficient technologies, such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax. These standards offer faster maximum speeds and better performance in high-traffic areas. If your current adapter only supports older standards, upgrading to a new adapter can provide a noticeable speed boost.

 

• Improved Range: In addition to speed, newer wireless adapters also offer a better range. They use advanced antennas and other technologies to transmit and receive signals over longer distances. This means you can stay connected to your WiFi network even when you’re far away from the router.

 

• Better Reliability: Older wireless adapters may be prone to interference and signal drops, especially in areas with many other WiFi networks. Newer adapters use advanced technologies to avoid interference and provide more reliable connections.

 

• More Features: Newer wireless adapters may also offer additional features, such as support for multiple bands or MU-MIMO (Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output) technologies. These features can further improve your WiFi performance, especially if you have multiple devices connected to your network.

 

• Replacing your device’s wireless card-based network adapter is a relatively simple process. Many laptops and desktops have removable wireless cards that can be replaced with newer models. Mobile devices may require more specialized parts and expertise.

 

Before replacing your adapter, make sure to research the compatibility of the new adapter with your device. You may need to install drivers or update your device’s firmware to ensure proper operation.

 

7. Change your wireless channel

 

If you have ever experienced slow wifi speeds or buffering while streaming, then you know the frustration that comes with it. In most cases, the cause of such problems is the wireless channel that your router is using. By changing your wireless channel, you can significantly boost your wifi signal and enjoy faster internet speeds. In this article, we will discuss what wireless channels are, how they work, and how you can change them to optimize your wifi performance.

 

Understanding Wireless Channels

Wireless channels are frequencies that your router uses to transmit and receive data. They are similar to radio stations, where each station broadcasts on a particular frequency. Wireless channels operate within the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency ranges. The 2.4 GHz range is the most common frequency range used by routers, while the 5 GHz range is less congested but offers faster speeds and less interference.

 

How Wireless Channels Work

Wireless channels work by dividing the frequency range into smaller sub-channels. Each sub-channel can support a certain amount of data, and the more sub-channels your router has, the more data it can transmit and receive simultaneously. The number of sub-channels available to your router depends on the wireless standard it uses. The most common wireless standard used today is 802.11ac, which supports up to 80 MHz of bandwidth and up to eight sub-channels.

 

How Changing Your Wireless Channel Boosts Your Wifi Signal

The wireless channel that your router uses can have a significant impact on your wifi signal. If too many routers in your area are using the same channel, it can cause interference and congestion, resulting in slower speeds and weaker signals. By changing your wireless channel, you can reduce interference and improve your wifi signal.

 

How to Change Your Wireless Channel

To change your wireless channel, you need to access your router’s settings. You can do this by typing your router’s IP address into a web browser and logging in with your username and password. Once you have access to your router’s settings, look for the wireless channel settings. The location of these settings may vary depending on your router’s make and model.

Once you have found the wireless channel settings, select a different channel from the drop-down menu. You can use a wifi analyzer tool to determine which channels are the most congested in your area and choose a channel that is less congested. After selecting a new channel, save the changes and restart your router.

 

Changing your wireless channel is a simple and effective way to boost your wifi signal and improve your internet speeds. By understanding how wireless channels work and taking advantage of less congested channels, you can optimize your wifi performance and avoid frustrating buffering and slow speeds.

 

8. Update your firmware or network adapter driver

Updating your firmware or network adapter driver can help boost your wifi signal by ensuring that your device has the latest software and drivers that are optimized for performance and stability.

 

Firmware is the software that controls the hardware components of your device, and updating it can improve the overall performance and functionality of your device. Network adapter drivers, on the other hand, are software programs that allow your computer or device to communicate with your wifi network, and updating them can improve the speed and reliability of your wifi connection.

 

When you update your firmware or network adapter driver, you may benefit from improved wifi signal strength, faster data transfer rates, and fewer dropped connections. This is because the latest software and drivers are often designed to optimize the way your device communicates with your wifi network and other devices on the network.

 

9. Make sure your router is updated

 

 

 

Making sure your router is updated can boost your wifi signal by ensuring that it is using the latest firmware version that includes bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements.

 

Router manufacturers often release updates for their firmware to fix known issues and vulnerabilities, as well as to optimize the router’s performance. By updating your router’s firmware, you can ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently, which can help improve the strength and stability of your wifi signal.

 

Moreover, some firmware updates may include new features or settings that can improve your wifi performance, such as the ability to prioritize certain devices or applications on your network or to optimize the router’s wireless signal for specific environments or usage scenarios.

 

10. Check your modem’s capability, it may be outdated!

If your modem is outdated and not compatible with the latest wifi standards, you may experience slower speeds, reduced range, and poor signal quality. By upgrading your modem to a newer model that supports the latest wifi standards, you can take advantage of faster speeds and improved performance for all of your connected devices.

 

In addition to compatibility, it is also important to consider the type and speed of your internet connection when selecting a modem. For example, if you have a high-speed fiber optic connection, you will need a modem that can support the higher speeds and bandwidth provided by this type of connection.

 

11. Upgrade 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g devices to 802.11n

802.11n is a newer wifi standard that provides faster wireless speeds and improved signal quality compared to older standards like 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g. This is achieved through the use of advanced technologies such as Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) and Channel Bonding, which allow for more efficient use of available wireless channels and better utilization of the available bandwidth.

 

By upgrading to an 802.11n device, you can enjoy faster data transfer rates and smoother streaming of high-definition content. You can also experience fewer dropped connections and improved signal strength and range, which can be especially useful in larger homes or spaces with multiple walls or obstacles.

 

It is important to note that upgrading your device to 802.11n alone may not be enough to fully optimize your wifi signal. You may also need to upgrade your router and other devices on your network to take full advantage of the benefits of this newer standard.

 

Overall, upgrading your devices to 802.11n can help you improve your wifi signal quality, speed, and range, and provide a better wireless experience for all of your connected devices.

 

12. Control Bandwidth-Hungry Applications and Clients

 

Bandwidth-hungry applications and clients are those that consume a large amount of data or require high network speeds, such as video streaming, online gaming, or file sharing. These applications can put a heavy load on your network, causing slower speeds and poor signal quality, especially if multiple devices are using the network at the same time.

 

To mitigate the impact of bandwidth-hungry applications and clients, you can prioritize network traffic and allocate bandwidth based on your needs. This can be done using Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router or by using third-party software that can monitor and manage network traffic.

 

By controlling the bandwidth usage of these applications and clients, you can ensure that your other devices have enough bandwidth available to perform their tasks without interruption. This can help improve your wifi signal strength and stability, especially in households or environments with multiple devices connected to the network.

 

13. Ensure your device is using the correct frequency (2.4ghz & 5ghz)

Wifi networks operate on two frequency bands – 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band is more commonly used and offers better range but can be subject to interference from other devices that operate on the same frequency, such as cordless phones and microwave ovens. The 5 GHz band, on the other hand, offers faster speeds but has a shorter range and is less susceptible to interference.

 

To ensure that you are using the correct network, you should first check your router’s settings and see which frequency bands it supports. Then, you can choose the appropriate network for your devices based on their capabilities and the distance between them and the router.

 

For example, if you are using devices that require a longer range, such as a smart TV in another room, you may want to use the 2.4 GHz network. On the other hand, if you are using devices that require faster speeds, such as a gaming console or a laptop, you may want to use the 5 GHz network.

 

Conclusion

There are multiple ways to boost your wifi around your home and business! Having a clear understanding on why your signal or speed is slow in certain areas of the building is the first key step to understanding what method you need to look into first. 

 

Most times if your signal bars are low, the device is too far from the modem’s wifi signal, meaning you need to look into getting a wifi signal booster or repositioning the router to spread the signal more evenly throughout the house.

 

Get in touch with UBB on 0800 000 945 or email us at support@ubb.nz so our tech wizards can walk you through the out wifi extending solutions, and even help with any wifi-related questions you may have.

 

FAQs:

 

Q: What is the best location to place my router?

A: The best location for your router is a central location, away from walls and other obstacles that can block the signal.

 

Q: Can using Wi-Fi extenders affect my internet speed?

A: Yes, Wi-Fi extenders can cause some loss of speed and signal strength. However, they are a useful solution for covering dead zones and improving signal strength in hard-to-reach areas.

 

Q: How often should I update my router’s firmware?

A: It’s a good practice to check for firmware updates once every few months and install them promptly.

 

Q: How can I check my wifi signal strength?

A: There are several ways to check your wifi signal strength, including:

 

1. Using your device’s built-in wifi signal indicator: Most devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, have a built-in wifi signal indicator that displays the strength of the wifi signal.
2. Using a wifi analyzer app: A wifi analyzer app can show you the strength of your wifi signal and provide recommendations on how to improve it.
3. Using a wifi signal meter: A wifi signal meter can measure the strength of your wifi signal and help you identify areas where the signal is weak.