The Importance of Router Placement to Boost Internet Speeds
If you experience slow internet speeds, it may not be an issue with your internet connection, but rather your router placement. Let’s explore some simple remedies that include speed tests and tips for optimizing your home network to help boost internet speeds.
Take a Quick Speed Test
The first step in determining if you have an issue with your internet at home is taking a speed test. Keep in mind that a speed test will give you more accurate results if you’re directly connected with an Ethernet cable versus a wireless connection. That’s because a wireless connection can experience slowdowns due to router placement and physical barriers in the home, such as walls and furniture.
Router Placement is Critical to Boost Internet Speeds
If you used the Ethernet connection as mentioned above and your speed test results were good, but you’re experiencing slow Wi-Fi, then it’s likely due to your router placement. Here are some helpful tips to optimize your router placement and enhance internet speeds.
- Router Type – Having the right router for your space is critical. If you live in a two-story home, you may need to have a Wi-Fi extender or mesh router. However, not all routers are built to be identical. It’s best to speak to a professional at Home Telecom to determine if your current router best meets your needs or if a different router is preferable with your home’s layout.
- Router Location – Once you have determined the best router for your space, the location of the router is critical. Choose a central location for the router. If you place it in a far corner of the home, the opposite side of your house may have an inferior Wi-Fi signal.
- Increase Height – Once you have chosen a central location for your router, ensure it’s positioned as high as possible to maximize Wi-Fi coverage. Whether you place it on top of a bookshelf or mount it to the wall, the higher the better to help broadcast the signal.
- Avoid Interference – Place the router away from other electronics, such as microwaves, TVs or large metal objects, as these can disrupt or even block the signal. Additionally, avoid placing the router near water, such as large aquariums, or bulky furniture, which can significantly decrease the router’s signal reach.
- Change Wi-Fi Channels – Most Wi-Fi routers offer both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz options. These routers can utilize dual-band technology, allowing them to operate on both frequencies simultaneously; however, you may need to default to a specific frequency. For example, 5 GHz is faster but has a shorter range compared to 2.4 GHz. Switching your frequency may be a solution for particular devices experiencing slower Wi-Fi speeds in a room of your house.
- Antennas – While some routers have no antennas, others may have antennas that help direct the Wi-Fi signal more effectively. Consider slightly adjusting the antennas and then conducting speed tests connected to Wi-Fi to see if it makes a difference.
- Reboot – Occasionally rebooting the router can make a difference and help to reset your system.
Learn more about where to place a router in your home to boost internet speeds.
Home Telecom Offers Boosted Internet Speeds
If you follow all the tips above and still experience less than satisfactory internet speeds, contact Home Telecom’s team for additional information.