Internet connection via a wireless network or Wi-Fi has become the norm due to the prevalence of wireless devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and smart appliances. Most internet service providers sell subscription plans that come with a Wi-Fi router. The coverage area and signal reach of a particular wireless network has become essential to stay connected and make communication devices useful. There are still instances in which a device struggles to maintain a high-quality connection with a Wi-Fi network. This article provides tips on how to boost your Wi-Fi signals and coverage.
Maximizing Your Wireless Network: How To Boost Your Wi-Fi Signals and Coverage
1. Choose the Most Suitable Wi-Fi Band
There are three main Wi-Fi bands. These are the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, and the 6 GHz band. The 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands have a larger bandwidth capacity and better wireless connection speed. However, because these bands use shorter wavelengths, they also have a shorter range and are more prone to signal loss due to physical obstructions.
It is better to switch to a 2.4 GHz band for a longer-range connection. Of course, it is still important to note that not all routers have the option to switch bands. Older routers are limited to the 2.4 GHz bands while most modern ones have dual-band and the more recent routers based on the Wi-Fi 6E standard have triple-band support.
2. Take Note of Obstructions and Interferences
Signals would not be able to travel through certain physical materials. The 5 GHz band and 6 GHz band have shorter wavelengths and they are unable to pass through concrete walls and even solid and thick doors. It is important to place your router in a central area. An open floor concept is the most ideal for maximizing your Wi-Fi signals and coverage.
You should also be aware of possible signal or network interferences that can affect the quality of your wireless network. These interferences come from other devices that emit electromagnetic radiation such as cordless phones, microwave ovens, wireless video cameras, Bluetooth devices, and wireless personal area networks such as Zigbee, among others.
3. Place the Router in the Most Ideal Spot
Connecting to bands with shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies is suitable for streaming high-definition videos or playing graphics-intensive online video games. This means that the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands remain superior in terms of bandwidth capacity and connection speed despite their limited range.
Nevertheless, based on the aforementioned, one of the simplest ways to boost your Wi-Fi signals and coverage is to place the main router in the nearest area where you will be using most of your data-hungry devices such as a smart TV, personal computer, or video game console. The router should also be placed in a spot that is free from physical obstructions and interference.
4. Change the Wi-Fi Channel or Upgrade the Router
Another quick solution to improve your Wi-Fi signals and coverage is to change the Wi-Fi channel in your router. A particular router uses different channels to communicate with wireless devices. Selecting the most suitable channel through a trial-and-error process can help reduce signal interference and improve signal strength.
Upgrading the firmware of the router is also another option. This ensures that the router is performing at its best and providing the strongest signal possible. Some cases would require replacing the entire router with a newer one. Newer routers are based on newer Wi-Fi standards and some routers are more powerful in terms of emitting signals.
5. Use a Signal Extender or a Mesh Network
There are two types of Wi-Fi boosters. These are Wi-Fi extenders and mesh Wi-Fi networks. An extender or signal repeater connects to the main router and rebroadcasts the same wireless signals. This device is affordable and ideal for smaller spaces with dead spots due to the limitations of the main router or because of obstructions.
A mesh Wi-Fi network also improves and extends Wi-Fi signals and coverage. However, compared with an extender, it involves using a satellite node that communicates with the main router and other nodes. A mesh network is scalable and it is ideal for large spaces such as huge homes and even buildings or apartment complexes.
