January 2024
No one wants to be in the middle of a video meeting or watch Netflix and have to wait for the video to buffer, sound problems or inability to access the printer.
Your home internet service may require assistance to support more devices than it was ever intended for – smartphones, desktop, tablets and laptops for home and business; Zoom meetings; videogame system; multiplayer games; smart TVs and high-tech appliances.
Wi-Fi is more important than ever before because virtually all technology now relies on it. Ensuring you have a quality connection and good speed may require some work.
Too many devices sharing internet access may leave insufficient bandwidth for individual devices or applications. It may be difficult or impossible to get a signal in some homes, in areas of the home or on a balcony. Signal range is limited and more problematic in taller buildings where internet signals may be harder to obtain.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth can usually be resolved by purchasing a faster service. The more you pay, the faster the download and upload speeds, and the more data you’re allowed to use per month.
A newer or better modem can be faster and more reliable.
Router
Wireless internet throughout your home requires a router. Locate it in a central spot on the main floor for maximum reach. Keep it higher up and off the floor in an open space rather than behind closed cabinet doors. Locating the router near where the line comes into the home may be a convenient but poor location. Electronic interference may be an issue if your router is installed near an electrical panel.
Wi-Fi routers can broadcast in two different frequencies; 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Some routers will automatically determine which is best for your location. The 2.4 GHz frequency can reach farther distances. The 5 GHz frequency operates at faster speeds.
Your router will be faster if it complies with the most current wireless standard which is currently Wi-Fi 6. Older standards offer slower upload and download speeds, and can support fewer devices.
Mesh System
For larger homes, a mesh system can resolve poor internet performance in certain rooms. This is a series of hubs, or routers, placed throughout the home. These hubs wirelessly communicate with the primary router to extend the Wi-Fi signal. Hubs are best placed closer to a strong signal so that it is extended rather than in an area with a weak signal.
