To Stay on a Wi- Fi Signal as Strong as Thor

Buying the best router does not give you that strength. You need the right combination of devices, applications and hardware for the best experience on the Net.

Choosing the setup with the right specifications

Devices with the correct configuration are important to begin with. Depending on the speed of the connection from your internet service provider (ISP), the required area coverage, to the possible frequency at which the signals are emitted, all factors are equally important to gain a strong Wi- Fi signal consistently.

• Positioning the router is essential for reliable signals.
• Choose a mid- point level in a building or home for the most coverage in the floors below and above. Any architectural structure such as floors, walls, doors interferes with the signal.
• Keeping the router in an open area increases its reach significantly.
• Interferences with other signal emitting devices should be avoided. For example, avoid keeping it beside the TV or your computer itself.
• There are 2 frequencies available on most devices now—2.4GHz and 5GHz. Many of the landline phones and walkie- talkies use the 2.4GHz frequency. Microwaves obstruct the existing signals. As a result, setup and use the 5GHz connection, to reduce as much interference as possible from other household devices.
• For routers with visible antennae, rotate them depending on the signal strength. The more number of antennae, the stronger the signal. All antennae should be in the same direction. But do not point straight up.

 

Additional tips to optimize the Wi- Fi signal

• Using the built- in Media Prioritization or Traffic Control option (in the router) can assist to change your priority list of applications the network is used for. For example, if you use online streaming services, then this is what most of the signals will be allocated to.
• Repeaters/ Extenders boost signal from your router. They become an access point. These devices are extremely useful when there are “dead spots” (without wi- fi signals) in an area.
  • They receive the Wi- Fi signals from the routers and then relay those signals to the area they are in. Keep in mind that the farther this device is from the router the weaker the signal will be.
  • Ensure that these are compatible with the routers.
• Powerline provides widened network coverage using the existing electrical wiring around the building. An Ethernet cable would connect the router and a nearby power outlet which would then expand the existing Wi- Fi network. Where you have power strips and surge protectors, you need an AC pass- through adapter, to disable any interference to the Wi- Fi network.
• Keeping the device firmware up- to- date maintains the devices in the best shape and gives you the best Wi- Fi coverage.
• As a final option, if all this fails and you are still at a loss of good network, upgrade router to the next level. Specialists at stores selling technical products should be able to help you. Or you have online sources available after all.

Covering these basic steps should result in a great online experience!