Nothing is more annoying than a slow WiFi connection when you try to stream music or your favorite series, for example. Fortunately, there are several ways to improve your WiFi range.
This way you can improve your WiFi range
A slow WiFi connection can have various causes. Maybe your router is in the wrong place, the software is outdated or too many devices are connected. Computers are by no means the only one connected to WiFi: smartphones, tablets, smart TVs and other smart devices can also use the wireless connection (or act as a jammer).
If your WiFi range is poor, this could also be due to an overcrowded WiFi channel or the distance between your house and the telephone exchange. By following the steps below, you ensure that your Wi-Fi range is as optimal as possible, so that you can at least tick off the most common causes. If these tips do not work, it is good to contact your internet service provider.
1. Change the position of your router
Routers are usually not beautiful devices that you would like to put in sight. Most people will have the device hidden somewhere in or behind a cupboard, which will not benefit the signal. Rather place your router in a central place in the house and preferably not on the floor, near a wall or tangled cables.
If your router has antennas, it is good to spread them out to increase the range. Other electrical devices (such as a wireless music system, microwave, or neighbor’s router) can interfere with the router’s signal, so it’s good to take that into account when relocating the device.
2. Check the firmware and settings
The WiFi range may not be optimal because the software of the router is outdated. It is good to regularly check for firmware updates by diving into the settings of your router. This is done by surfing to the IP address of your router (usually http://192.168.1.1/) and by logging in with the password and username on the device (e.g. admin / admin or user / user).
Make sure your router is properly secured
We recommend changing these default logins and securing your WiFi connection with a unique and difficult to crack password. This can also be arranged via the router settings. With a few simple adjustments you can keep burglars out.
3. Switch the frequency band
By default, most routers use the 2.4GHz band to broadcast their WiFi signal. This frequency band is therefore often very busy and prone to interference, as many devices and jammers use the same radio waves. Modern routers also support the 5GHz band in addition to the 2.4GHz band, which may have a smaller range, but is often less crowded and therefore faster. Keep in mind that not all equipment can handle 5GHz WiFi.
Some routers support dual band Wi-Fi, so they can broadcast on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz. This means that devices that do not support 5GHz WiFi can also connect to it. You can check whether your router supports 5GHz by logging in to your router (see step 2) and going to the WiFi settings. Find the setting ‘Radio Settings’ (or similar) and see if you can switch to 5GHz at ‘Radio Band’. In the same menu you can often also see whether your router supports dual band WiFi.
4. Change the wireless standard
Also for this tip you have to dive into the settings of your router. If you have a modern router, chances are you can change the wireless standard from the old and slower 802.11 a / b / g to the new and faster 802.11ac and 802.11n standards. These are backwards compatible, but it is important that your devices support them.
While you’re at it, it’s smart to adjust the channel width. The higher speeds with the 802.11ac and 802.11n standards can only be achieved on channels that are 40MHz wide. Usually the channel width is set at 20MHz, which affects the speed of the WiFi network. Many routers let you choose a combination of 20 and 40MHz (“Automatic”), so older devices that can only connect to 2.4GHz networks (20MHz) will continue to work properly.
5. Adjust the Wi-Fi channel
It is also possible to adjust the WiFi channel from the router settings. This is very important, because a channel that is crowded and has a poor signal is disastrous for the quality of your wireless connection. To determine which channel is suitable to choose, you can use applications such as Network Analyzer (iOS), Wifi Signal (Mac), inSSIDer (Mac and Windows) or Wifi Analyzer (Android).
These applications show which channel has the best range and the least number of jammers. The signal is given in negative values, for example, -30 is better than -80. Preferably select channels 1, 6 or 11. These channels do not overlap and do not interfere with the other channels. With the app from Speedtest.net you can test to what extent your WiFi connection has improved.
6. Improve WiFi range with a repeater
Do you have poor or no WiFi coverage in the bedroom, attic or garden? Then you can consider a WiFi repeater (or range extender). You plug this device into the wall socket, after which the WiFi signal is picked up and forwarded. In this way, the range of your WiFi is increased, although you will not achieve the same internet speed in all places.
Many inexpensive repeaters halve the original bandwidth. If you do start working with such a device, make sure you have good security and place it in a place where you still have Wi-Fi coverage. After all, otherwise there will be no good signal to forward.
7. Use an access point
A WiFi repeater is easy because you don’t have to connect it to the router with an Ethernet cable. If you have the option to do this, it is better to go for an access point. You connect this device to the router, after which it sends out a powerful signal. If you place it on a different floor, you can increase and improve the WiFi range that way.
An access point can send out a much stronger signal
It is recommended to buy an access point from the same manufacturer as your router. Choose one that supports a high speed (at least 300 Mbit / s) and ensure good security. After all, you don’t want intruders on your network.
Do you have tips for a better WiFi connection? Share them below!