Wi-Fi is a radio signal. Like any radio, it gets weaker with distance and every wall, floor and appliance in its way. Moving your router just a few metres can turn weak, patchy Wi-Fi into a strong signal across the home, without spending any money.
Put it in the centre
Place the router as close to the middle of your home as possible. A router in a corner sends half of its signal outside or into the neighbour’s flat. From the centre, it reaches every room more evenly.
Lift it up
Wi-Fi spreads outwards and slightly downwards. Placing the router on a shelf or mounting it on a wall at around head height works much better than keeping it on the floor or under a desk.
Keep it in the open
- Do not hide the router inside a cabinet, drawer or TV unit.
- Keep it away from thick concrete pillars and walls where possible.
- Avoid placing it behind the TV or next to a large mirror or metal almirah, which reflect and block the signal.
Stay away from interference
Microwave ovens, cordless phones, Bluetooth speakers and baby monitors can disturb Wi-Fi, especially on the 2.4 GHz band. Keep the router at least a metre or two away from them.
Point the antennas the right way
If your router has external antennas, set one straight up and one sideways. This helps devices on the same floor and devices above or below receive the signal well.
Multi-storey homes
In a duplex or a building where family members live on different floors, one router is often not enough. Read our guide on mesh Wi-Fi and range extenders to cover every floor properly.
Still weak?
If you have tried these tips and some rooms still have poor Wi-Fi, contact SF Networking. Our team can suggest a better location for the router or the right equipment for your home.