Easy Tips for Boosting Your WiFi Signal at Home
If you're tired of using slow Wi-Fi, there are many tools available online to test your internet speed. Also, there are easy tricks you can try to fix your network issues. However, if the only way you can finish your favorite series is by being near your modem, these simple hacks can help you make life easier again. Are you tired of seeing that dinosaur jump game every time? If yes, then you need to finish reading this article!
Take an internet speed test.
While this step may be simple, it's the first step you need to do when aiming to boost your internet—it's actually crucial to determine how much bandwidth is really being allocated to your devices. To determine how fast your internet and Wi-Fi connections are, take an online speed test with a specific device or computer connected to a LAN or Wi-Fi network.
Through this, you'll be able to know your ping time and download vs. upload speeds. This way, you can gauge whether you are really getting what you paid for and if your current plan is worth it.
Upgrade your internet plan.
If you find that your current internet bandwidth isn't enough for the whole household, it may be the best time to upgrade. Upgrading to a faster internet plan can significantly boost your internet speed and performance. You can have higher download and upload speeds if you opt for a greater internet plan. If you want to switch providers, you can use your ZIP or area code to learn which internet service providers are available in your area.
Buy an internet extender.
Is your room on the far side of the house and you're having signal issues? If yes, then this simple solution is the answer. Adding a Wi-Fi extender works similarly to an internet repeater boosting internet signal to farther rooms. One advantage of extenders is that they're less likely to limit your internet bandwidth, and they provide connected devices with a strong and uninterrupted internet connection.
A LAN cable is another effective way to boost internet for basement gaming or devices that are far from the router. A LAN cable doesn't use more internet bandwidth to communicate because it's wired. However, this requires effort and wiring, so it's not the best internet-boosting solution for everyone.
Check for malware.
Malware is created by individuals aiming to damage someone's device or even gain access to it. This malware can also be the main reason why your internet connection is getting slower and slower each day. To detect this malware, buy or simply run a thorough anti-virus scan on your device so you can check if they are using up your bandwidth.
Move your router.
Moving your router or modem to a central spot can help maximize the reach of your internet signals. Since it might be a ridiculous idea to hang your Wi-Fi router like a living room chandelier, here are the most optimal locations you can move your router to boost your internet signals and boost your Wi-Fi speeds:
- Living room wall
- Central living room or family room
- On the second floor, if you don’t have a basement
- Central hallway or living space
Adjust one Wi-Fi router antenna up and one to the side.
Normally, internet signals spread out perpendicular to your modem or router. However, Verizon says that internet signals weaken, especially if there are obstructions or when traveling through walls.
Not all Wi-Fi routers have antennas, but if your internet router does have antennas, you can angle them in such a way to help your Wi-Fi signal travel directly through walls while retaining optimal signal strength. You can do this by adjusting your one Wi-Fi antenna up and one to the side.
Tweak your router settings.
Trying different settings on your Wi-Fi router could be the answer to your problems—this basic step can significantly improve internet signal strength and speeds in your household. There are routers designed for entertainment prioritizing bandwidth when streaming content or playing video games. This particular setting is not efficient if multiple household members share the connection, so you might want to turn the entertainment settings off.
You can also reset the Request to Send (RTS) thresholds on your internet router. The RTS threshold protocol clears a data transmission channel before the data packets are sent on it. If you're in an apartment complex or anywhere crowded, setting your RTS threshold to the minimum could boost your Wi-Fi performance.
Buy a new high-end router.
The biggest issue causing slow connection, yet the one homeowners often overlook, is the old Wi-Fi router. Fortunately, there are many advantages to purchasing a brand new high-end router—you'd be investing in more than a faster Wi-Fi connection.
A newly bought router can also give you extra home security features and can be compatible with a wider selection of devices. An added security feature and compatibility can help homeowners interested in automating their houses and strengthening their network security.
Kiss the Lag Goodbye!
With just a few simple steps and optimizations, you can greatly boost your home's Wi-Fi strength and coverage. These hacks can help you eliminate dead zones, reduce buffering, and enjoy much faster and more reliable internet connectivity all throughout your household. Kiss the frustrating internet lags today and say hello to seamless streaming, online gaming, and browsing experiences!
