In today’s digital age, the demand for faster internet speeds is undeniable. A reliable internet connection has become essential for remote work, online gaming, and streaming services like Netflix and Disney+. While you can’t control the speed provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP), there are steps you can take within your home to optimize your Wi-Fi network starting with your router.
The Wi-Fi router plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal speeds, and using an outdated device can hinder your connectivity. Community Fibre recommends that anyone with a router older than five years should consider upgrading to a more modern model promptly. Older routers may not support advanced standards like WiFi 6, which offer faster speeds and broader coverage, potentially causing performance bottlenecks.
Newer routers are designed to accommodate more devices and minimize interference, making a significant difference in busy households. Contacting your ISP for a possible router upgrade, which might even be complimentary, is a good first step. Alternatively, exploring the market for Wi-Fi 6 or even Wi-Fi 7 routers can further enhance your internet speeds.
Proper placement of your router is also crucial to optimize signal strength. Avoid obstructing the router with walls, furniture, or metal objects that can weaken the Wi-Fi signal. Placing the router in a central, elevated position away from large electronics like microwaves is recommended. Additionally, interference from devices such as baby monitors, radio gadgets, and Bluetooth speakers should be minimized to maintain signal quality.
To prevent network congestion, consider reducing the number of connected devices and scheduling bandwidth-intensive activities during off-peak hours. Hardwiring stationary devices can alleviate network traffic, and some routers offer settings to prioritize specific types of traffic for better performance, such as work-related activities or streaming services.
By following these guidelines and optimizing your Wi-Fi setup, you can ensure a smoother and faster internet experience at home.