Does your internet connection only work near the router? If so, there could be a Wi-Fi signal problem, and you may need to extend it.
Sometimes, it’s as easy as putting your Wi-Fi router in another part of your home. However, you might need to get a better router or install other accessories.
READ: It’s not NASA, but Asti-PH has taken off
Article continues after this advertisementCheck out this list of Wi-Fi signal troubleshooting tips to improve internet connectivity for you and your family.
FEATURED STORIES TECHNOLOGY vivo launches V40 Lite with 5000mAh battery covered by 50-month warranty, starts at Php 13,999 TECHNOLOGY Galaxy Buds3 Pro: Delivering tailored sound wherever you go TECHNOLOGY Very mindful, very intuitive: ASUS’ most superior AI PC yet, the Zenbook S 14, empowers you to achieve more How to boost your Wi-Fi signal Reposition your router Disconnect unused devices Install a new antenna Get a better router Purchase a mesh Wi-Fi Kit Buy a wireless booster Use 2.4GHz instead of 5GHz Wi-Fi 1. Reposition your router
Free stock photo from Unsplash
Your router spreads its Wi-Fi signal from all directions, so it’s best to put your router in the middle of your home.
Objects and walls can obstruct the signal so put your router in an elevated spot, such as atop a bookshelf. Also, keep it away from reflective surfaces like mirrors and fish tanks.
Article continues after this advertisementIf these don’t work, try putting your router in other locations. Check out this Inquirer Tech article for more information about router placement.
Article continues after this advertisement 2. Disconnect unused devices
Free stock photo from Unsplash
All internet connections have limited bandwidth, meaning there’s only a limited amount of connectivity to go around. Linking too many devices to your network will reduce internet speed.
Article continues after this advertisementSometimes, it may need more internet speed to use apps. That is why you should disconnect online devices that are not being used.
For example, cybersecurity firm Norton recommends turning off your smart home device if it is not currently in use.
Article continues after this advertisement 3. Install a new antenna
Free stock photo from Unsplash
You may also have a poor Wi-Fi signal due to a faulty router antenna. Consequently, check your internet device if it allows third-party antennas.
Some may only link with antennas of the same brand. Digital tips website PCMag says internet users have two options: an omnidirectional or directional antenna.
The former sends out Wi-Fi signals from all directions, and the latter transmits to only one. Directional antennas are more advisable because most only have an internet connection problem at a specific location.
4. Get a better router
Free stock photo from Unsplash
Most people follow the adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, you probably need to replace your trusty router if it’s already a decade old.
Ensure your Wi-Fi signal is functioning properly by using a router that follows the latest Wi-Fi standard. Check out this Wi-Fi standard list, from the oldest to the newest:
802.11b 802.11g (Wi-Fi 3) 802.11n (Wi-Fi 4) 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6e) 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7)READ: Google Maps now helps users beat traffic jams
The latest standards usually offer the fastest, most reliable online connections. However, your devices must also support the same Wi-Fi standard. Otherwise, your device might not benefit from your new router.
5. Purchase a mesh Wi-Fi Kit
Free stock photo from Unsplash
Tech Advisor recommends using a mesh Wi-Fi kit to extend your Wi-Fi signal into every part of your house. It consists of two or more working together to provide wider coverage.
Attach one of the mesh routers to the spare Ethernet port of the existing router. Then, the system creates a new Wi-Fi network that will accommodate all your gadgets.
Then place the second and the succeeding mesh devices in other parts of your house, ensuring everyone has a reliable connection.
6. Buy a wireless booster
Free stock photo from Unsplash
You may install a Wi-Fi repeater or booster if you want a more budget-friendly alternative. As the name suggests, they receive your router’s signal and then retransmit it.
These devices are cheap and easy to install but usually offer slower internet speeds. You may not notice a difference if you only surf the Web casually.
For example, the dip in internet speed is negligible if you only read and write emails. However, most use the Internet for more bandwidth-heavy purposes, like watching online videos.
7. Use 2.4GHz instead of 5GHz Wi-Fi
Free stock photo from Unsplash
Modern Wi-Fi signals only have three frequency bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz. Most pick the larger numbers, believing they provide higher internet speeds.
However, higher frequencies have a shorter range, meaning your connection may degrade if you move far from the modem.
The signal also struggles to pass through walls, ceilings, and even people. On the other hand, 2.4GHz can deliver signals farther at slower speeds.
READ: How to share your Wi-Fi password with others
Most Wi-Fi networks split their frequencies into 2.4GHz and 5GHz. You may select them on your computer or phone’s Wi-Fi options.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Note that other appliances use 2.4GHz and may interfere with your connection. These include microwaveswjili, baby monitors, Bluetooth devices, and other gadgets.
TOPICS: READ NEXT Mind your meditation: Navigating drawbacks of mindfulness An all-rounder smartphone: vivo Y100 with impressive camera ca... EDITORS' PICK Heart Evangelista: Woman to woman, I never had a problem with Pia Wurtzbach Party-list system: What to know ahead of 2025 polls LIVE UPDATES: Tropical Storm Kristine VP Sara Duterte says she still sees Sen. Marcos as a 'friend' INQside Look with senatorial aspirant Tito Sotto Central Visayas’ most wanted killed in shootout in Argao, Cebu MOST READ SC issues TRO vs Comelec resolution on dismissed public officials Tropical Storm Kristine slightly intensifies; Signal No. 2 in 5 areas Walang Pasok: Class suspensions on Wednesday, Oct. 23 LIVE UPDATES: Tropical Storm Kristine View comments