Slow or patchy Wi-Fi is one of the most common reasons people call for tech help. Before you buy new equipment, a few simple checks often make a real difference at home or in a small office.
Put the router in the right place
Wi-Fi signals weaken through walls, floors, mirrors and large metal objects. A router hidden in a cupboard or at one end of the building leaves far rooms struggling. Place it as centrally and as high as you can, out in the open.
Restart and update
Restarting the router clears temporary problems. While you are at it, log in to its settings or app and check for firmware updates: they fix bugs and close security holes. Many routers can update themselves automatically once you switch that option on.
Use a strong password and modern security
- Change the default admin password of the router, not only the Wi-Fi password
- Use WPA3 security if all your devices support it, or WPA2 if they do not
- Give visitors a separate guest network so they never join the network your work computers use
- Remove old devices you no longer recognise from the connected list
Cables still win for fixed devices
Desktops, printers and TVs that never move are often better on a network cable. It takes them off the Wi-Fi, which leaves more capacity for phones and laptops, and a cable connection is usually faster and more stable.
When the building is simply too big
If some rooms are still out of reach, a mesh Wi-Fi system or extra access points spread the signal more evenly than a single router. For offices, a short site visit helps decide where they should go and how they should be connected.
Router menus differ between brands. Your internet provider or a technician can help with the exact steps for your equipment.