Rachel Diaz

Updated Saturday, January 27, 2024-02:10

In today's world, where working from home,

streaming

Netflix, and streaming on platforms like Twitch have become commonplace, bandwidth is a very valuable resource in the home. Even if you have a fiber connection, faster Internet at home is always desirable. More than ever, that device, called a router, that hangs on the wall or rests on a table,

is the door to the outside,

so the scenario in which this device works with difficulty can turn our routines into a nightmare.

The speed of your connection depends not only on the external infrastructure, but also on how you configure and manage your home network. In fact,

there are even variables that you may have never considered

that could influence internet speed. Below, we compile some tips and aspects to take into account to enjoy 100% of the contracted connection.

Change the Wi-Fi password

It seems silly, but if your WiFi is slow, there are chances of having neighbors who are enjoying an excellent internet connection without paying a dime, that is, they are 'sucking' from your network. For this it is vital to ensure that your network is protected with a password. An unprotected network is also vulnerable to hackers. It uses a strong password and AES encryption, which provides security without compromising speed.

Call your company's assistance

At first glance it seems like the most logical idea. If you are paying for a good internet service and it is slow, your company can connect to your router remotely, without the need for a technician to come to your house, and run a diagnosis on the network. You can even solve some problems and if it is something more serious, send a technician.

Router placement

The first step to improving your Wifi is to consider the location of your router. Placing it in a closet or behind a shelf can significantly dampen the signal. On the other hand, placing it in a central and visible place can significantly improve coverage. The idea is to keep your most used devices as close as possible to the router such as computers or game consoles, while devices that require less bandwidth, such as smart thermostats, can be located further away. If possible, avoid placing the router near other devices that generate electromagnetic waves, such as baby monitors or microwaves.

Restart the router

Another typical solution in the field of computing is to restart the device to see if the problems resolve themselves. For example, if you are using a 2.4 GHz network and are having speed issues, restarting it may help. This basic system forces the device to search and select the channel with the least interference.

Avoid network congestion

Wifi channel congestion is a common problem, especially in densely populated areas. Your router uses a specific channel to communicate with your devices, and if many nearby routers use the same channel, it can result in a slow and unreliable connection. Changing the Wifi channel on your device can alleviate this problem. Channels 1, 6 and 11 are usually the best to avoid interference. Plus, take advantage of dual-band technology by strategically using the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to optimize the speed and range of your connection. For example, the 5 GHz band provides a faster connection, however, the 2.4 GHz band has a longer range. It is best to have both activated since older devices only work with 2.4.

Disconnect devices you do not use

If you have many devices connected, consider unplugging those you are not using. Each connected device consumes a portion of the available bandwidth, so limiting the number of connected devices will help improve the overall speed of your network. Additionally, many modern routers have options to prioritize certain devices or services, which can be useful to ensure that critical activities, such as online work meetings, are not interrupted.

Update the router

If you are experiencing dead or slow zones in your home, it may be necessary to upgrade your router. For larger homes, consider a device that can be paired with repeaters, which extend the signal to farther areas. Smaller devices may require a simpler system. There are various models on the market, from budget options to advanced devices designed for streaming video games, for example, as well as mesh networking systems that distribute the connection more evenly over large spaces.

If the house is large, use repeaters

A Wi-Fi extender or repeater is a simple and effective solution to eliminate dead zones in your home. These devices capture the router's signal and amplify it, improving coverage in areas where the signal is weak. Although the extended signals are not as strong

Like the direct ones from the router, a strategic placement of these devices can make a big difference. This requires the installation of several routers throughout the house. If the space is not so large, you can choose to use repeaters that extend the signal through the areas where it is weakest.

See compatibility between Wi-Fi and devices

Understanding the specifications of your Wi-Fi is crucial. With the arrival of Wi-Fi 6 and the imminent Wi-Fi 7, it is important to know what technology is compatible with your devices and how it can improve your connection experience. Wi-Fi 7, for example, promises faster speeds and better ability to handle multiple devices, essential for homes with numerous connected devices.

Uses Ethernet cable connection

Another effective trick to improve the speed of your Wifi is to use an Ethernet cable connection for devices that require a faster and more stable internet, such as video game consoles or personal or work computers. Also in the case of having a Smart TV, since a bad connection can affect the quality of the streaming video. Although less convenient than wireless, a cable provides a faster connection and is not affected by interference from other devices. Additionally, installing cable organizers can help keep everything tidy and prevent cables from traversing your living spaces.