Millions of UK homes now rely on a decent broadband connection for streaming, playing games and working from home but many still aren’t getting the download speeds they need or deserve. It’s a frustrating problem, but there are some very simple things you can do to make sure the Wi-Fi keeps pace with daily digital needs. Although your downloads will be dictated by your provider and how much you are willing to pay, placing the router in the wrong part of your home can wreak havoc with those all-important speeds and some quick changes could give things a boost for free.
If your internet connection feels like a snail stuck in treacle, here are Express.co.uk ‘s top tips for getting things back on track.
MOVE YOUR ROUTER
If your downloads are dismal, the first thing to do is check the router’s position. If it’s shoved in a cupboard, tucked behind the TV, or placed under the stairs, it’s time to make some urgent changes. To get the very best signal, make sure that the flashing black box is out in the open, in a central position and, if possible, up off the floor.
It’s also a very bad idea to place it near devices such as baby monitors or cordless phones, as these devices emit their own signals that can clash with Wi-Fi and slow things down.
AVOID WINDOWS
It’s recommended to have the router out in the open but that doesn’t mean placing it on the window ledge. Being near glass is a really bad idea. Firstly, some of the all-important signal beamed from the router will be blasted outside rather than bouncing off walls and back into the room.
Then there’s the issue of the sunshine. Like all technology, Wi-Fi routers really hate getting hot, and if they overheat, things can grind to a halt or shut down altogether. If your router is on the window ledge, we suggest moving it as soon as possible.
MICROWAVES YOUR WI-FI’S ENEMY
Kitchens are a really bad place to have your router as they are full of metal objects that can seriously mess with the signal. If you have a microwave constantly cooking your evening meal then this can seriously mess with speeds. These popular appliances actually use the same 2.4 Ghz frequency as Wi-Fi routers. This means things can clash, disrupt and even shut down your internet connection.
WATCH OUT FOR PETS
Your cat or dog probably won’t hurt your downloads but if you have fish in the house…beware. Wi-Fi really, really hates water, and if your router is by a huge tank of wet stuff, it could be the reason your streaming is stuttering.
Make sure things are kept clear of any aquatic life and you might find things get an instant speed boost.
GIVE IT A REBOOT, BUT DON’T LEAVE IT OFF
Giving your Wi-Fi router a reboot every so often can work wonders. Yes, the old trick of switching it off and on again really can fix issues, clear bugs, and get speeds back on track. Most ISPs recommend switching off the router, waiting one minute, then turning it back on again.
Just be aware that the full reboot can take up to 5 minutes to finish, so don’t tap the power button if you are about to join the weekly work Zoom call.
Although a restart is a good idea, it’s not recommended to turn the router off overnight as it won’t get vital upgrades. Constantly turning things off and on again can also send signals to the ISP that there’s an issue with the line, which can then mean emergency speed restrictions are put in place and actually slow things down.
