We have all experienced that frustrating moment when Netflix suddenly stops loading and the room goes silent.  For some reason, the WiFi signal dropped again, and the binge watching is put on hold until this annoying issue is fixed.  Sometimes, just walking a bit closer to your router will revive your program, but what about those of us who believe WiFi  should be everywhere and we should not have to walk a foot to access it? Routers often do not get as much attention as they deserve, which is why we put together a few recommendations for how to improve WiFi signal. From a simple solution like changing the location of your router, to a more high tech option like a high-range antenna or signal repeater, there are ways to ensure your WiFi signal reaches every corner of your home.

 
The first step in improving WiFi signal is to make sure your router is set to the proper settings.  Some older routers still support 802.11g or 802.11n. 802.11ac is now much speedier and has been available since January 2014.  Older technologies will likely slow down internet speeds.  This can be checked in your router settings, and if you do not see an 802.11ac option on a router you have rented from your service provider, contact them immediately and request an equipment upgrade.  A simple solution for how to improve WiFi signal is to put a password on your network to lock out any unwanted users.  The fewer devices on a network, the faster the connection will be.  Once you have confirmed that you are using the “ac” option and have set a network password, the next tip for how to improve WiFi signal is to physically move your router to a more centralized location.

Most of us install our routers and set them up, then leave them in a corner or a cabinet until they have an issue.  Some of the best advice for people who ask how to improve WiFi signal is to put your router near the middle of your home so that its signal can reach all areas.  A relatively good place to keep your router is behind the television in your living room.  If you have a two story home, be sure that the router is near the ceiling if placed on the first floor and near the floor if it is on the second floor; this way both floors will have more even coverage.  Although walls and barriers do weaken the signal from a router, interfering signals can have a much larger impact.  Be sure to check for interfering devices such as baby monitors, Bluetooth devices, cordless phones, and microwaves.  The signals put out by these devices can weaken the WiFi signal from your router drastically.

Another recommendation for how to improve WiFi signal is to use a dual bandwidth router.  Most electronic devices run on a 2.4Ghz band, which means that interference will come from all of the devices on this bandwidth.  If you can, switch your router to use the 5.0Ghz band, as it will be less crowded and offer less resistance. If replacing your router seems like a step too far, we have a few alternatives for how to improve your WiFi signal with simple additions to your router.

We have discussed ways to improve your WiFi signal, but what about range?  By adding a high-range antenna to your router, the perimeter that is reached by your WiFi signal will increase, meaning that those troublesome corners of your house can once again become WiFi  hot spots.  Most routers have external antennas that can be unscrewed and replaced; we have done research and this antenna seems to be the best value. But, if your router does not have an antenna, consider investing in a network repeater or range extender.  Netgear’s EX3700 WiFi  Range Extender costs about $60 and is very easy to use.  Simply plug it into an outlet and it is capable of transferring speeds over dual bandwidths up to 750MBps.  Adding an antenna or extender is a great answer to how to improve WiFi  signal without adjusting any router settings or getting a new router altogether.

If you are hesitant to perform any of these upgrades or changes on your own, feel free to call us at 862-7019, or click on Request Service on our website to connect directly with our technician.  If you are struggling with how to improve WiFi  signal in your home, don’t fret, just give us a call and we can get your network roaring in every corner of your home or office.  Don’t bother dealing with your internet provider who will leave you on hold for hours only to tell you to try turning your router off and on again; get real help from the real Computer Doctor!

We are located at 50 Main Road North in Hampden, Maine. If you mention this article, you will receive 10% any at-home service!