Nothing is more aggravating than trying to stream content or use your computer when the Internet is operating slower than the proverbial tortoise.
We have proven solutions to make Internet connections faster, more reliable and secure for our business customers. But what about at your home? Spotty, unreliable WiFi is almost certain to happen at the most inconvenient time. For example, when you’re about to watch that great movie on a Friday night.
If you want to fix slow home WiFi, here are our top 7 recommendations.
#1: Make sure your Internet Service Provider (ISP) isn’t having issues
Most ISPs publish outages their website. Try using your phone’s mobile network instead of your home WiFi to check the webpage. If there are no outages, you can move on to the next steps.
Side Note: If you haven’t talked to your ISP in over a year, check to see if they have new plans. You may be able to get more bandwidth for less money. You might also check other providers to see if they can offer better, faster service than your current ISP.
#2: Update your home WiFi router
An update will reset your router with the latest (and fastest) connection speeds. It will also ensure you’re up-to-date with important security patches. Even just rebooting the router (powering it off and on again) may enough to fix the problem.
I would also suggest you get a new router if yours is more than 3 years old. Aim for one with WiFi 6 and dual or triple band capabilities. This allows your router to connect to multiple devices without sacrificing speed or bandwidth.
#3: Change your wireless channel
Wireless routers can broadcast on several different channels. The most common wireless technology operates at a frequency of 2.4 gigahertz (GHz). Other wireless electronics like cordless phones, microwave ovens, baby monitors, and garage door openers also use this same frequency. As a result, their signal noise can interfere with your WiFi. If you’re using the 2.4 GHz frequency, change to another less “noisy” channel. How you do this depends on the brand and model of your router, so refer to the manufacturer for details.
#4: Upgrade to a mesh home WiFi system
When too many devices connect, Internet speeds decline. With a traditional router, all wireless traffic depends on one single point of access. A mesh WiFi system connects multiple home WiFi access points. This expands the network and eliminates dead zones.
#5: Turn on QoS, or Quality of Service
This is a router feature that lets you prioritize specific devices, services, or applications such as Teams or a gaming program. Essentially, your router will prioritize certain uses over others. Check your router’s manual for details on how to set up QoS.
#6: Check that you haven’t been compromised
Viruses and hacks can suck up resources and may be the reason for your network grinding to a halt. If your WiFi network is open without security or is using WEP, WPA or WPA2, change your settings immediately. Go with WPA3 encryption (which is the most secure) and disable any remote management options on your router.
#7: Change your home WiFi router’s location
The basement might not be the best place to store your router. Walls, floors and metal objects can interfere with the signal. Try placing your router up high and as close to the center of your home as possible. If you have a large house, consider investing in WiFi extenders in various locations to boost the signal.
Home WiFi can be a frustration. However, if your business WiFi is slow, spotty and problematic, it can lead to lost productivity, customer dissatisfaction, and untold frustration. If you’re experiencing problems with your business WiFi, click here to request a free diagnostic. Invario Network Engineers WiFi experts can quickly see what’s causing the problems you’re experiencing. Contact us today.