Tech Talk: Say bye-bye to bad Wi-FI

Tech Talk: Say bye-bye to bad Wi-FI

FPJ BureauUpdated: Wednesday, May 29, 2019, 08:13 PM IST
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Most of us these days have a broadband connection at home and use a Wi-Fi router for wireless internet access. While the service provider had boasted about blazing fast internet speeds, we often wonder why we aren’t able to stream videos without a buffer or wonder why the WhatsApp call often disconnects.

We often end up complaining about our ISP or the router itself, isn’t it. But, do you know that with the help of a few simple DIY steps one can easily get the most out of the same internet connection and Wi-Fi router? Do try these simple yet effective steps and notice the difference.

Placement of the router: The location of your Wi-Fi router has a major role to play when it comes to delivering faster speeds. While setting up the router, try installing it as close to the centre of the house as possible, on the top floor. Since radio waves travel from top to bottom and lateral, this will result in uniform connectivity. Also, place the router far from cordless phones, microwave ovens, power cords, computer wires and neighbours’ Wi-Fi routers. Also, since metal reflects Wi-Fi signals, avoid placing a router on a metal stool or a metal cabinet.

Wireless technology devices isometric poster with laptop printer smartphone router and wifi internet connection symbol vector illustration

Wireless technology devices isometric poster with laptop printer smartphone router and wifi internet connection symbol vector illustration |

Update the firmware: Like our smartphones and computers, even Wi-Fi routers get software updates. Make sure your routers’ firmware is up-to-date for better connectivity and latest security patches. Manufacturers often release patches to ensure that the routers’ hardware runs smooth and offers seamless connectivity.

Switch channel: Wi-Fi routers broadcast signals through different channels which are identified by numbers (01,04,06 etc). While most countries have six different channels, most routers are set to use the ‘default’ channel. You can check the channel of your router by logging in to the router dashboard and change the channel to the least congested ones. There are quite a free softwares available online which can help you identify the least occupied channel.

Multi band router: It is preferable to use a multiband router which offers 5GHz connectivity. Though 2GHz connection has a wider range it is often congested and offers slow speed. Since 5GHz frequency is less congested, it offers faster connectivity though at a lesser range. This range can always be extended using a range extender.

Secure your Wi-Fi: Keeping a strong password is a golden rule. This will ensure that the pesky neighbour is not able to decode the password and use your Wi-Fi easily. You can also keep a watch on the devices using your Wi-Fi and disable the unauthorised users from the dashboard of your Wi-Fi routers. Creating a separate guest network with limited speed and bandwidth can also help in minimising the misuse. Also, don’t forget to change the passwords frequently.

Conclusion: These simple DIY steps should be helpful in boosting Wi-Fi signals at your home. In case you are still facing the same issue and if your router itself is obsolete, then you may need to invest in a better router. While choosing a new router, make sure that you get the one which offers maximum range and has multi-band support.

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