Maximise Your Wi-Fi Signal

Maximise Your Wi-Fi Signal

Achieving the best possible Wi-Fi performance in your home can be challenging, especially with multiple devices and potential interference. Here's a quick guide to help you optimise your home network for better speed and reliability.

1. Move Your Router
   Placement is crucial for maximising your router's performance. Avoid hiding your router in a cupboard or drawer, or behind large objects. Central and open locations are ideal. Think of the router as the heart of your Wi-Fi network. So, it would be best to position it where it can freely provide its signal throughout your home. A good suggestion can be to try mounting your router halfway up a wall or on a high shelf to improve coverage in the home.

2. Use Ethernet Cables
   For devices that demand high-speed and stable connections, like gaming consoles, desktop PCs, or streaming boxes, it may be best to consider using Ethernet cables. A wired connection offers faster and more reliable performance than Wi-Fi, without the risk of interference.

3. Change the router Channel or Band
   Wi-Fi routers operate on different channels, and congestion can occur if too many devices are on the same channel. So, switching to less crowded channels like 1, 6, or 11 to reduce interference can provide good improvements to connectivity. There are also dual-band routers which offer 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. The 5 GHz band provides faster speeds but has a shorter range, while 2.4 GHz covers a larger area but at slower speeds. So, you can decide on which devices at home to prioritise for your fastest channel. Using a Wi-Fi analyzer app can help find the least congested channel in your specific environment.

4. Upgrade Your Router
   Older routers might not support the latest technologies needed for optimal performance. Upgrading to a modern router with better coverage and features can make a significant difference. When signing up with UrbanX you can choose to upgrade your router to ensure that your experience is as smooth as possible.

5. Add a Password to Your Wi-Fi
   Securing your network is essential to prevent unauthorised access and ensure that your bandwidth is reserved for your devices only. Use a strong password and WPA3 encryption if available for the best possible security and speed.

6. Get a Wi-Fi Extender
   Wi-Fi extenders or repeaters can help eliminate dead zones by boosting the signal in areas your router can't reach. Place them strategically to ensure they receive a good signal from the router and extend it effectively to other parts of your home. Consider the type of extender (repeater, access point, or mesh system) based on your specific needs and budget.

7. Cut Off Unused Devices
   Disconnect devices that you are not actively using to free up bandwidth. Prioritise your high-demand devices by ensuring they have a strong connection and are not competing with unnecessary devices.

8. Check Your PC
   If your computer is experiencing slow internet while other devices are fine, check for background programs or updates that might be consuming your network’s bandwidth. Adjusting these settings can improve your internet speed drastically.

9. Restart Your Router
   Rebooting your router regularly can sometimes resolve connectivity issues by resetting the connection and choosing the best channel with the least interference. However, this should only be done if you encounter persistent problems, not as a regular maintenance routine.

10. Call UrbanX
    If all else fails, contact us at UrbanX so that we can offer insight and assist with resolving your issue with your internet connection.

UrbanX: Reliable, Fast Internet for Your Home

For South African gamers seeking a more consistent, and effective solution, UrbanX offers significant advantages thanks to our low latency connections, high speed internet plans, and specialised customer support - giving you someone to rely on when experiencing issues.

Reliable internet is a necessity for all homes. Whether you’re streaming your favourite shows, working from home, or playing online games, these tips about your Wi-Fi router might make all the difference.

With these expert tips from UrbanX, say goodbye to dead zones and lag and say hello to seamless connectivity. It's time to experience the difference.