WASHINGTON — Few things are more frustrating than waiting for a home computer to catch up to the task you’re trying to accomplish, however, taking a few simple steps can improve Wi-Fi performance dramatically.
First, make sure the router is placed as close to the physical center of the home as possible. Positioning the router in the basement, or in a corner is a recipe for poor Wi-Fi, since distance traveled and obstacles like walls create dead spots, according to Forbes.
While some Wi-Fi routers have internal antennas, many have external antennas, which need to be pointed in the right direction. Read the manufacturer’s instructions because correct positioning varies by model and home configurations.
Updating the router’s firmware ensures your system has performance improvements, and most recent security upgrades. The update option is found in the router’s administration software.
Newer routers, using Quality of Service settings, are able to select specific devices to receive priority Wi-Fi access. For instance, configuring a router to prioritize devices that stream programming in main viewing locations ensures a smooth viewing experience, while someone watching YouTube videos on an iPhone may have to wait an extra moment for content to load.
In large homes, or houses with many Wi-Fi dead spots, a range extender can help provide better coverage. Make sure the capabilities of the extender match the capabilities of the router.
And, remember, when the internet stops working, the first thing to do is restart your computer, according to CNET.
- Unplug your router and broadband modem from power.
- Wait 30 seconds, then plug them back in — modem first, then router.
- After a few minutes, power the devices back on.
CNET suggests restarting the router and modem once a month.
