Struggling with slow browsing, dropped Wi-Fi signals, and dead zones? In today’s connected world, these issues are frustrating and can disrupt our daily lives. If your Wi-Fi feels sluggish, you can use various tools to test your internet speed and try some troubleshooting tips. No, we are not talking about buying faster internet speed by upgrading your tariff plan. There are many other solutions.
How to Boost WiFi Speed?
1. Update Your Router Firmware
Before tweaking settings, update your router’s firmware for better speed, features, and security. Most modern routers allow easy updates through the admin interface by clicking a firmware upgrade button. For older models, you’ll need to download the firmware from the manufacturer’s website and upload it manually—tedious, but worth it.
Even if your network isn’t having issues, regularly updating firmware is essential. Check out our guide to access your router’s settings and use the update tool in the System section.
2. Learn How to Fight Throttling
Throttling is the artificial slowing down of your internet by your ISP. It does this when it realizes that you are consuming a lot of traffic, but your actions seem unimportant to the ISP. Not all providers resort to this strategy, but many do.
We are aware of Xfinity throttling and it is a common occurrence. You can check whether Xfinity throttles internet. To find out, you need to install VeePN VPN. If the problem is Xfinity internet throttling, you will notice a significant increase in internet speed, since your ISP cannot recognize what traffic and where you are sending it. If the situation has not changed after installing VPN, then the problem is not throttling.
3. Switch Wi-Fi Bands
Every router and mesh system has at least two radios—2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Some also offer 6 GHz. Here’s what you can expect:
- 2.4 GHz: Long range, slow speed, high congestion.
- 5 GHz: Shorter range, faster speed, moderate congestion.
- 6 GHz: Shortest range, fastest speed, least congestion.
Many routers use band steering, combining all connections into one Wi-Fi name. If speeds are slow, your device may be on the 2.4 GHz band. To fix this, disable band steering and manually switch to the 6 GHz band for better performance. If 6 GHz isn’t available, try 5 GHz, but know it can be crowded and affected by radar.
4. Move Your Router
That router in the closet? Not a good idea. Walls and cupboards can dampen your Wi-Fi signal. Moving the router can significantly improve speeds and reach. The ideal spot depends on your home, but avoid hiding it in a corner or inside a drawer. A central, prominent location is best.
You might need to get creative with cabling, but it’s worth it—keep main devices like consoles and laptops close to the router. Consider the look of your router too; you’ll be more likely to place it prominently if it’s not hideous. Mount it halfway up a wall if needed, and keep it away from other devices like baby monitors and microwaves that use electromagnetic waves. For more tips, read our guide on router placement.
5. Change the Channel
Interference is a common issue, especially in densely populated areas. Signals from other wireless networks, cordless phones, microwaves, and electronic devices can impact speeds.
Remember using walkie-talkies as a kid? You had to be on the same “channel” to hear each other. Similarly, modern routers switch channels to communicate with your devices. Most routers automatically select a channel, but if nearby networks use the same one, you’ll encounter signal congestion. While good routers choose the least congested channel, older or cheaper models may stick to a predefined channel, causing problems.
6. Try Install VPN
You can install VPN as an add-on for your router. This will allow you to route all traffic through a remote server. This way you protect your Internet channel, and sometimes even increase the speed of the Internet. You can also use free VPN for the browser, smartphone app and PC. This allows you to open a separate channel for traffic transmission.
7. Adjust Antennas
Adjusting your router’s antenna may seem old-school, but it’s worth trying. Routers with upright external antennas broadcast Wi-Fi in an elongated donut shape, providing strong horizontal range.
We typically test routers this way to maximize speed over distance. However, positioning antennas horizontally can change the broadcast pattern, potentially weakening the signal in some rooms while strengthening it upstairs or in the basement.
Experiment with different antenna positions to find a balance between coverage and performance.
8. Extend Your Wi-Fi Reach
If your router is in the best location but you still have connectivity issues, you may need to extend your network’s range. Here are some devices that can help:
- Wi-Fi Extenders: Connect to your router and rebroadcast the Wi-Fi signal.
- Access Points: Use a second router in Access Point mode for better range.
- Wi-Fi Boosters: Plug into the router’s antenna port to boost the signal.
- Powerline Adapters: Send network signals through your home’s power lines.
- Mesh Systems: Use multiple units to create a seamless network.
If none of these tips work, then you might want to think about upgrading to something like a nbn 500 Homefast internet plan, which should solve the problem once and for all.
Conclusion
Improving your Wi-Fi speed is simpler than you think! Follow these four easy steps at home to boost your connection. Still experiencing slow speeds? It might be time to contact your ISP for a consultation or to replace any faulty equipment.