Gone are the days when we had to dial up a number to connect to the Internet, and our favorite websites needed at least a few dozens of seconds to load. Now, we can browse the web at speeds that exceed 1 Gbps from the comfort of our homes, using lightning-fast, low-latency fiber optics connections. However, if you've ever tried to use a wireless network in a larger home, you know that Wi-Fi can be frustratingly slow and unreliable.
According to George Hardesty, CEO of Data Alliance, signal strength ranges from -60 dBm to -90 dBm in most people's homes, and this makes it almost impossible to use data-intensive Internet services such as VoIP platforms, HD movie streaming or real-time online gaming. If you have this problem, don't worry; we will explore several field-tested tips you can use to boost wireless signal, and thus make sure that every device in your home benefits from fast, reliable Internet access.
Update router firmware.
The router is the central piece of your home network, and if you aren't regularly updating its software, you are leaving the door wide open to problems. It's easy to do that using your smartphone; just install the router companion app, and then you'll be able to apply new firmware updates from within the mobile application. The alternative is to subscribe to your router maker's newsletter; this way, you should get an email notification anytime the company releases updates, patches, etc.
Tweak the Wi-Fi settings.
To get the strongest signal, make sure your router is set up correctly. Log into the admin panel, and then explore the available settings. Most devices give you the option to enable Quality of Service (QoS), a technology that can prioritize certain applications and devices which require a larger bandwidth.
Change the wireless channel. Many people don't take the time to set up their routers properly, which means that most Wi-Fi networks in your area will use channel 6 -- the default one. To maximize signal strength, choose either the 1st or the 11th channel for your home network, and then test the upload/download speed using a service such as fast.com. On the other hand, channel 6 may be a good option if all your neighbors have picked #1 and #11 for their wireless networks.
Reposition Your Router.
Lots of people prefer to hide their routers out of sight (often, in a closet), but that is a bad idea. So, get the router out of there, and then move it to a different location. Use a simple wireless monitoring app on your phone to measure Wi-Fi strength and choose the area that delivers the strongest signal.
Reduce Interference.
Did you know that construction materials and electronic devices that are placed near your router will diminish its wireless signal strength? So, shut down and dump that microwave oven; it isn't good for your health, anyway. The same goes for cordless telephones, which are useless in the age of the mobile phone.
Install New Antennas.
They're easy to replace, and they won't be expensive. Most routers are shipped with low-cost 2 dBi antennas, and this diminishes their range significantly. Do yourself a favor and buy two or three antennas which have got a gain of at least 5 dBi. They won't add more power to your home network, but they can focus the available power much better, allowing the wireless signal to reach longer distances.
Use a Wi-Fi Extender
To get more Wi-Fi coverage around your house, consider using a range extender. This little gadget can be plugged into a power outlet, and then it will amplify your network's wireless signal, giving you a more reliable and faster Internet connection.
Buy a New Router
If you are using a router that's over five years old, it is time for an upgrade. I used to love my old router a lot, but trust me: I love the new one so much more! New routers run much faster, deliver a stronger network signal, and have improved security features. If the Wi-Fi extender hasn't fixed your signal-related problems, it's time to spend $100 on a new router.