A strong WiFi signal is now as important as having electricity. We rely on our home WiFi for a lot of things, may it be for sending emails, video conferencing, or simply browsing your Instagram newsfeed. We all know how frustrating it can be to have a poor WiFi connection, especially if we’re doing something important. But you don’t have to be frustrated anymore, as there are actually several steps you can take to extend the WiFi range in your home.
But first, before we share some tips on how do to this, we’d like to help you get a better understanding of what causes this issue in the first place. This way, you can prevent this from happening to you ever again. Let’s start!
What Causes Weak WiFi Signal?
A weak WiFi signal is a common issue homeowners face. Regardless of whether you have the best cable, fiber, or satellite internet, your WiFi experience can still be compromised by various factors. However, if you understand these factors, you will be able to optimize your home network and prevent these issues. Some of the common causes of weak WiFi signals include:
- Interference from other electronic devices (microwave ovens, cordless phones, baby monitors, and other Bluetooth gadgets)
- Physical obstacles such as thick walls or floors, large metal objects, and more
- Overcrowded WiFi network
- Poor router placement
- Outdated router or firmware
Ways to Extend the WiFi Signal Range in Your Home
Since you’re already aware of the potential causes of weak WiFi signal in your home, it’s time to discuss some of the ways you can extend the WiFi range so you don’t have to be frustrated ever again due to a poor WiFi signal.
- Check Where Your Router is Placed
Is your router placed inside a cabinet? Or is it positioned in one of the corners of your house? Proper router placement is important because it directly influences the coverage and strength of your WiFi signal. The rule of thumb is to place the router in the centermost part of your home, preferably elevated and away from any obstructions. Avoid placing it in the kitchen, near your microwave oven, or anywhere near large metal objects because it can interfere with the signal.
- Upgrade Your Router
If you’ve been using your router for so many years and it hasn’t been replaced ever since, consider upgrading your router. Having an outdated router means your router might not be equipped to handle the demands of modern internet usage. You can reach out to your internet provider to see if they provide free router upgrades, or you can simply purchase one from your local store or even on Amazon or eBay.
- Consider Using a WiFi Extender or Booster
If you live in a big home where a typical router isn’t enough to cover the entire space, it’s wiser to invest in a WiFi extender. Usually, there are two options: mesh WiFi or WiFi extender. Both of these are excellent devices that can extend the range of your WiFi signal.
Mesh WiFi can deliver better and more stable connections, but it’s a bit pricier compared to an extender. A WiFi extender, on the other hand, works by rebroadcasting the WiFi signal to areas with weaker coverage. An extender is more affordable and more practical if you only have one to two dead spots in your home.
- Optimize Your WiFi Channels
WiFi routers operate on specific radio frequencies within the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. These bands are divided into channels, and each channel represents a different frequency on which a WiFi signal can transmit. In the 2.4 GHz band, there are 11 channels available in the United States, and in the 5 GHz band, there are typically more channels to choose from.
You can use WiFi analyzer tools or just experiment with your WiFi channels. When you find the right channel for your specific needs, you’ll be able to enjoy reduced interference and improved signal quality. Only then you will start enjoying your internet connection, may it be cable or fiber internet.
- Keep Your Router’s Firmware Updated
Just like your laptop, PC, or mobile phone, it’s crucial for you to keep your router’s firmware updated. It’s because manufacturers regularly release them to address any bugs and issues and improve the overall performance of your device.
If you don’t keep them updated, you’re not only risking your network’s security but also preventing your router from operating in its optimal state. If you’re not sure how to do this, you can visit your router’s admin interface or router’s manufacturer’s website to see if they have any updates.
- Restart Your Router Regularly
Restart your router by unplugging it for at least 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. This process is called the power cycle, and it usually addresses a lot of internet issues. When you call your internet provider, they will generally advise you to do this first before proceeding with other troubleshooting steps.
However, doing this regularly can prevent issues from accumulating over time and potentially causing disruptions in your WiFi signal. The power cycle helps clear the router’s memory and refresh its connection to the internet service provider, which gives you a more stable and reliable performance.
- Use a Combination of Wireless and Wired Internet Connection
You don’t need to connect all your gadgets to the WiFi. If possible, use a wired Ethernet connection for your PC, laptop, and gaming consoles since it can give better performance and stability compared to wireless connections. This not only reduces the load on your WiFi network but also ensures a consistent and reliable connection for devices that require higher bandwidth.
Final Thoughts
Poor WiFi range is a common issue we might have faced once or twice in our digital lives, but it doesn’t mean you should settle for it. There are several steps you can take to boost your WiFi signal at home, but if you’ve exhausted all your efforts but nothing changes, it’s best to call your internet provider so they can conduct a thorough inspection and help you fix this issue. Good luck!
