Tuesday Tip: Make Your Wi-Fi Faster Without Buying a New Router

Slow Wi-Fi can frustrate you, especially when streaming, gaming, or working from home. Before you buy a new router, try these simple fixes to boost your Wi-Fi speed and reliability:

• Restart Your Router Regularly: This clears memory leaks, refreshes connections, and resolves minor connectivity issues. Unplug your router for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
• Optimize Router Location: Wi-Fi signals weaken through walls, furniture, and appliances. To maximize your signal:
  • Place your router centrally in your home, off the floor and away from walls.
  • Avoid microwaves, baby monitors, and cordless phones to minimize interference.
• Switch Wi-Fi Channels: Too many routers on the same channel can cause interference. To optimize:
  • For 2.4 GHz networks: Use channels 1, 6, or 11.
  • For 5 GHz networks: Higher channels often perform better.
  • Change channels in your router’s admin panel and remember to
    change your default admin password for security.
• Use Ethernet for High-Bandwidth Devices: Connect devices like gaming consoles, smart TVs, and desktop computers directly to your router via Ethernet.
• Disconnect Unused Devices: Check your router’s admin panel for connected devices and disconnect those you’re not using.
• Update Router Firmware: Outdated firmware can slow speeds and create security vulnerabilities.

Try these tweaks before investing in a new router. Optimizing your router’s position, reducing connected devices, and fine-tuning settings can significantly improve your internet performance.