A quick fix for a weak Wi-Fi signal

One of the regular issues for which iTandCoffee is called to assist and provide advice is poor Wi-Fi signal in a home (or office). This article was originally featured this time last year, so we are featuring it again for anyone who didn't see it.

In so many homes, the room in which the home's router is positioned is some distance from the living room and bedrooms where the signal needs to reach. This results in slow internet speed and dropouts - and lots of frustration!

In some homes, the distance may not be a problem - but the signal still does not seem to reach nearby rooms.

There are various solutions for poor Wi-Fi signal strength - including 'extender/s' and, even better, ethernet cabling throughout the house. 

But there is often a simple solution to the problem that costs nothing.

Positioning is everything!

In many houses, the router (which sends the Wi-Fi signal) is positioned in a cupboard, under a desk, or some other 'hidden away' spot.

While it is understandable why these devices are hidden away - they are usually not the most attractive of 'ornaments' - it is amazing how often just lifting up the router to the top of a desk or cupboard (or even higher) can improve the signal reach and strength.

Reducing the number of obstructions between the router and other locations in the house is also really important - whether those obstructions be doors, walls, cupboards, books in a bookcase, etc. For example, opening a door might help.

Think about positioning of Wi-Fi adaptors and extenders too

If you do need to install an extender to boost your signal, make sure it is in a location at which you can get a decent signal. Once again, the less obstructions between the extender and the main router, the better.

Recently I visited a client who had a Wi-Fi USB dongle plugged into her desktop computer, so that this desktop computer could utilise the Wi-Fi in the lounge room - which was only on the other side of the wall. The computer box was under the desk, and the dongle plugged in to a USB port at the back.

We unplugged the dongle from the back and plugged it in to a USB hub that she already had on the top of the desk. This worked like magic! This simple move resulted in about triple the speed that she was previously getting and made a massive difference to any internet-based work she was doing.

Other things to consider

Keeping your router away from your cordless phone can also help, as the phone may interfere with the router signal.

If none of these suggestions help, think about the age of your router and whether it might be time for an update.

Need help?

If you need some advice/assistance with Wi-Fi issues, iTandCoffee can help. Call 1300 885 420 to book an appointment - or visit itandcoffee.com.au/help-with-technology to book online.