Firstly, your Wi-Fi connection will only be as good as your broadband service so once you have followed the previous advice in out Get connected section of this guide and decided what service meets your needs there are some simple things you can do to improve your Wi-Fi signal in your building.
Where is your router?
Where you place your router can play a big part in how the signal transmits around your property. Wi-Fi signals weaken as they pass through objects and the strength can be affected by materials such as metal, glass, stone, and water.
Electrical items can also affect Wi-Fi signal such as a microwave, TV, audio equipment, or cordless phones.
The router’s position in the property is also key. The signal is transmitted all around the router so where practical it should be placed central to the property away from electricals, fish tanks, radiators, and thick stone walls. Ideally, it would be placed on a shelf or side table and if possible, away from the ground. If the router comes with an ariel or two, they should be angled in opposite directions for best coverage.
Upgrade your router
Periodically providers upgrade their equipment and often send out a new router to customers. If you haven’t had an upgrade in a few years, then contact your provider to make sure you have the latest model they’re currently providing.
Another option is to purchase an upgraded router not issued by your provider, however, be aware that your broadband provider may not be able to assist if you have connection problems.
A mesh network
Mesh networks connect to your router and can be purchased as an extra onto your contract in packs to fit your needs. These provide their own Wi-Fi network which can improve Wi-Fi coverage without losing performance from your broadband connection. Mesh Wi-Fi systems always come with at least a pair of hubs however you can add extra hubs if you have a larger building or to meet your demand. The system plugs into your existing router for an instant Wi-Fi upgrade.
Connected devices
The number of devices you have connected can affect your Wi-Fi speed as multiple devices share the bandwidth from the same signal. Disconnecting devices that are idle or not needed can improve the data rate and speed of the devices you are using.
Wi-Fi boosters
These can be purchased and placed in areas of the building where the signal is weak to extend coverage. They act in a similar way to a mesh however unlike mesh they can affect your connection speeds.
Powerline adaptor
These use the building’s electrical circuits to transfer the signal from your router to another room. They come in pairs with one plugging into a power socket and connecting directly to your router via ethernet cable, and the other plugging into the room where you are using your device.
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