Improve your WiFi Signal

Many of us have been spending more time at home than we're used to. With that increased time indoors comes increased usage on your home Internet network. We're here with some helpful tips to improve your home WiFi signal.

Router Placement

First and foremost - router placement is the most important thing we'll discuss. Ideally, you'll want your router placed in a central location in your household. Avoid placing your router close to metal objects and appliances that emit electromagnetic waves. Metal is the biggest disrupter to WiFi signals.

Keep your router off of the floor. WiFi signals radiate outwards in all directions. If your router is on the floor, many physical objects can block the signal going outward.

Keep Leeches off your Network

Set a strong password for your WiFi network ("1234" won't cut it). If your router is close to other people, like in an apartment, you might even have neighbours leeching off of your WiFi signal.

To create a strong password use both uppercase and lowercase characters, numbers, and symbols. Routinely changing your password will keep any unwanted devices from staying connected.

Pick the right frequency for the job 

You can learn more about the difference between 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz networks in our blog post by clicking here.

But the skinny of it is: 5Ghz is faster, but better suited to short ranges. 2.4Ghz is slower, but better suited for long ranges. 

If you want to know which network is ideal in a specific location of your home - do a speed test using both frequencies in that location. But when you're close to your router, 5Ghz is best suited.

DIY tricks

There are some do-it-yourself tricks to improve your WiFi range. These range from using old cans to aluminum foil to boost your wireless signal.

However, many of these can improve your WiFi signal in some directions, while harming it in others. As we stated before, your router emits a WiFi signal in all directions.

If you do attempt any DIY tricks, do so safely, avoid causing harm to yourself or your equipment.

Use a Wifi Enhancer

If DIY hacks don't cut it, you can always get a WiFi Enhancer to improve your signal. These will extend WiFi coverage and capacity throughout your home (and beyond). You can purchase them through a 3rd party supplier, or rent directly through CityWest. To learn more click here.