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Do you remember the dial-up days? Back when we were so excited to have an internet connection that we patiently waited to connect? Then high-speed internet came along and the world as we knew it was forever changed. Now, within seconds we expect everything at our fingertips from surfing to streaming movies, playing music, and much more.
So when your Wi-Fi signal gets dropped repeatedly or your browsing reminds you of those dial-up days, you need your high-speed connection back and you want it back fast. Our Nerds hear you! Even they aren’t patient with slow internet connections.
Whether you are looking to boost your Wi-Fi signal, repair a cell phone, or have a tablet screen repaired, NerdsToGo can help with all your tech needs. Contact us today to schedule a service.
How To Boost Your Home's Wi-Fi Signal
Use these seven Nerdy tips to boost your Wi-Fi signal:
1. Confirm Your Router Placement Is Optimal
If you want to boost your Wi-Fi signal, the first thing you need to check is where your router is located. While it may seem convenient to tuck it out of the way by hiding it away, this is actually the last thing you should do with a wireless router. The router is literally sending signals to your devices, so it needs as little in its way as possible. This means you should place it away from walls, appliances, and other electronics that are also sending signals. Basically, a wall mount is your friend.
2. Make Sure Your Router’s Software Is Updated
You may be under the impression that once your router is set up through your wireless networking service, you can set it and forget it. However, that is simply not the case. Many router manufacturers regularly release updates to keep your router running smoothly, and usually, all you have to do is hit the upgrade button on the interface to get it.
3. Choose a Less Common Frequency
Here’s a little insider tip for you if you want to channel your inner Nerd: change your frequency. Most routers are set up using the 2.4GHz band, which means your router has a lot to compete with. However, many routers also have a 5GHz band available, and all you have to do is switch to it on your router’s interface.
4. Pick a Different Channel
Similar to the frequencies, if you can switch your router to a channel that is less frequently used in your neighborhood, you will be able to boost your Wi-Fi signal. To find out which channel your neighbors are using, simply type in “netsh wlan show all” using the command prompt on your PC. Once you see what channels are being used, you can manually change your channel to one that is less common. Shhh, don’t tell your neighbors!
5. Upgrade Your Hardware
All the Nerdy tips in the book won’t help you boost your Wi-Fi signal at home if you are using outdated technology. While the router itself may look just fine, if your router is more than a few years old, then chances are you are operating with out-of-date hardware. Older routers have a maximum throughput of only 54Mbps, while newer routers can handle data at 300Mbps. That’s definitely worth a new router. Contact your internet provider and they may even send you a new one for free!
6. Get an Antenna
Most routers have an internal antenna built in, but the problem is that they send the Wi-Fi signal in all directions. Chances are, you don’t need your Wi-Fi signal in all directions. You probably have one or two areas where you rely on your Wi-Fi connection the most. With an external directional antenna, you can make sure the signal goes right where you need it.
7. Use a Wi-Fi Extender
If you live in a larger home or your router is located near one specific side of the house, then you could absolutely benefit from a Wi-Fi extender. Even the best routers can only broadcast consistently up to a predesignated distance. If you get further away, you will lose your signal. By installing a Wi-Fi extender, you can boost your Wi-Fi signal throughout your entire house. They work by picking up the Wi-Fi signal and then rebroadcasting it out as far as it can go—so the extender essentially doubles your Wi-Fi signal’s distance.
Don’t deal with a slow or frequently dropped Wi-Fi signal! You deserve better. If you have tried the above fixes and nothing seems to be working, don’t hesitate to contact NerdsToGo now. Our Nerds will come to you to figure out the problem and get you surfing in no time!