We’ve all experienced it. You are in the midst of an intense Netflix binge or an important video call when the Wi-Fi signal disconnects or significantly slows down.
Sometimes, this is a result of the broadband speeds provided by your internet service provider. However, if you have tested your internet speed and everything appears satisfactory, it is time to examine your Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi acts as the intermediary between your devices and the internet. While your broadband represents the internet service provided to your home, Wi-Fi is the means by which that service is wirelessly distributed to your devices. and similar to any intermediary, there are occasions when it does not fully accomplish the task.
However, there is no cause for concern. This guide provides twelve distinct steps to enhance your Wi-Fi signal and achieve the necessary strength for work, play, and streaming your favorite shows.
Test your Wi-Fi speed
Before making any changes, check your current internet speed. This allows you to identify if the problem lies with your Wi-Fi signal or your internet service provider (ISP).
You can accomplish this by utilizing an online speed test tool to assess your download and upload speeds. We suggest using speedtest. net, which is easy to navigate and provides all the necessary information.
Next, compare these results with the speed outlined in your plan. If the speeds are considerably lower, you should address the issue with your ISP or think about switching providers. For further details, refer to our article on how to check your speed and achieve faster internet.
Restart your router
At times, the simplest solutions yield the best results. Restarting your router can address numerous common problems that impact Wi-Fi performance. Over time, routers may become overloaded with data and connections, resulting in diminished performance.
To restart your router, disconnect it from the power supply, wait approximately 30 seconds, and then reconnect it. Allow a few minutes for the router to reboot and restore connections.
Check that your Wi-Fi is secure
If your Wi-Fi network is not secured, others, such as your neighbors, may be using it without your awareness. This can greatly hinder your connection and may be the source of your issues.
You may examine your router’s connected devices to verify that there are no unauthorized users on your network. You can accomplish this by accessing your router settings or utilizing a third-party tool, such as Wireless Network Watcher or GlassWire.
If you discover unfamiliar devices, update your Wi-Fi password information. Even if you do not observe anything unusual, it is advisable to change your Wi-Fi password instead of utilizing the default settings provided with your router, as these are significantly easier for others to guess.
Update router firmware
Router firmware updates frequently contain enhancements in performance and security fixes. Keeping your router’s firmware updated can enhance its performance and resolve bugs that may be impacting your Wi-Fi signal.
Visit your router manufacturer’s website or access the router’s admin settings to check for any available updates. If an update is available, please follow the instructions to install it. Regular updates will guarantee that your router functions at its best.
Change the physical location of your router
Where is your router positioned in your house? Your router’s physical location can significantly impact your Wi-Fi signal strength.
The signal may be obstructed if your router is placed next to a wall, on the floor, or blocked by large objects such as furniture. Ideally, position your router on a high shelf or mount it on a wall to optimize coverage.
For optimal coverage in every room, attempt to place the router in the center of your home. Experiment with various positions to determine which one offers the strongest signal throughout your home.
Disconnect or limit devices that you are not using
Multiple devices connected to your Wi-Fi can use up bandwidth and reduce your network speed, particularly if these devices are operating data-intensive applications. You can often enhance your Wi-Fi connection speed by disconnecting devices that are not in use.
If you have multiple smartphones and tablets connected to your Wi-Fi network, particularly those that are inactive or used infrequently, it may be beneficial to disconnect them. These devices frequently operate background processes that may utilize bandwidth.
A somewhat more complex solution is to employ your router’s Quality of Service (QoS) feature to prioritize bandwidth for certain devices or applications. This enables you to prioritize streaming services, gaming, or video calls over less time-sensitive applications such as file downloading.
Modifying QoS settings will not enhance your overall Wi-Fi signal strength, but it can guarantee that you have enough bandwidth for your most important activities.
You can access the QoS configuration through your router settings. However, be aware that not all routers have QoS capabilities, and if your router is older or a basic model, it may lack this feature.
Switch from 2.4GHz to 5GHz (or vice versa)
Most contemporary routers function on both the 2. 4GHz and 5GHz bands. The 2. 4GHz band covers a wider area but provides slower speeds, whereas the 5GHz band offers faster speeds but has a limited range.
If your router is capable of dual-band operation, switch to the 5GHz band for enhanced performance, particularly if you are in proximity to the router. Conversely, if you require enhanced coverage over a broader area, the 2. 4GHz band may be your optimal choice.
Some devices and routers feature “band steering,” which automatically switches between bands for optimal performance, although this is not the case for all devices.
To determine which band your device is utilizing, access the network and internet settings on a Windows laptop as illustrated in the screenshot above. If you are using a Mac, hold “Option” while clicking the Wi-Fi icon.
On gaming consoles, you can either deduce the band from the SSID (network name) or verify it through the router’s admin panel. [IOT devices, such as robot vacuums, typically default to 2. 4GHz to enhance coverage.
To change bands, you can manually choose the relevant SSID or modify your router settings if it utilizes a single SSID for both bands.
Change the channel
Wi-Fi routers function on various channels; thus, if your neighbors are utilizing the same Wi-Fi channel, it may lead to interference and reduce your connection speed. The 2. 4GHz band has 11 to 14 channels, which frequently overlap, resulting in congestion.
The 5 GHz band provides 23 to 45 channels with broader options and reduced overlap, leading to decreased congestion. However, in densely populated areas, the 5GHz frequency can also become crowded, particularly on popular channels.
Most routers will automatically select the optimal channel available, but you can manually choose a channel by accessing your routing settings. However, remember that congestion on channels can fluctuate over time, so if you are manually selecting a channel instead of using the automatic feature, you will need to periodically verify if this remains the optimal choice.
Replace or add antenna
If your router has external antennas, upgrading them can enhance signal strength. Higher-gain antennas can direct the Wi-Fi signal toward a specific area, which is especially beneficial for extending coverage to certain parts of your home.
Alternatively, if your router features internal antennas or lacks antennas entirely, you might think about installing an external antenna to improve signal range and stability.
Buy a range extender
A wi-fi range extender can enhance your wi-fi strength by amplifying the signal from your router and redistributing it to areas with limited coverage. Position the range extender midway between your router and the location requiring a stronger signal. This device can efficiently remove dead zones in your home and deliver a more reliable wi-fi experience across spacious areas.
There is a broad selection of wi-fi extenders on the market, ranging from affordable options to high-performance extenders capable of covering extensive distances and delivering the speeds needed for serious gamers. Explore our guide to the top Wi-Fi extenders currently available on the market.
Install a mesh router
Mesh routers are a pricier alternative to extenders, but for individuals with larger homes or spaces with difficult layouts, implementing a mesh router system could provide a substantial improvement in your Wi-Fi coverage.
A mesh system utilizes several devices, or “nodes,” positioned throughout your home to establish a continuous network. In contrast to traditional range extenders, mesh routers offer uniform speeds and dependable coverage throughout all areas. They are especially beneficial in residences with multiple levels or dense walls.
You may refer to our guide on the top mesh Wi-Fi systems here to determine which one would suit your needs best.
Buy a new router
If your router is outdated or does not support the latest Wi-Fi standards, it may be time for an upgrade. Modern routers provide enhanced performance, extended range, and advanced functionalities such as MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output) technology, enabling multiple devices to connect simultaneously without compromising speed. Seek a router that is compatible with the latest Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 standards to ensure optimal performance and future readiness.
Our guide to the best Wi-Fi routers highlights our top selections for budget, premium, and gaming routers, serving as an excellent starting point for selecting your next router.
Final Thoughts
As demonstrated, numerous strategies can be employed to enhance wi-fi signal strength. We recommend beginning with the most straightforward and economical solutions initially. There is no justification for investing in costly hardware if your only requirement is to reboot your router and update its firmware.
However, individual circumstances vary, and numerous factors come into consideration. If the simpler solutions do not provide the desired signal strength, a new router, extender, or mesh system may be the ideal solution.
