Introduction
Having a strong and reliable wifi signal is a must in today’s world, where we rely on the internet for everything from work to entertainment. Nothing is more frustrating than experiencing a weak or intermittent wifi signal that interferes with our online activities. Wifi signal strength can be affected by several factors, including distance, obstructions, and interference from other devices. In this article, we’ll explore some actionable tips and tricks for extending wifi range, and how to overcome common obstacles that hinder signal quality.
Overcoming Obstacles
To extend wifi range, you need to overcome obstacles that impact signal quality. One common issue is distance; the farther you are from the router, the weaker the wifi signal. Obstructions such as walls, furniture, and other solid objects can also weaken the signal. Finally, interference from other devices such as microwaves, baby monitors, and smart appliances can cause signal disruption. Here are some tips for overcoming these challenges:
1. Relocate the Router
One of the easiest ways to overcome distance is to move the router closer to where you need the strongest signal. Typically, routers are placed in the central area of the house, surrounded by walls and furniture that obstruct the signal. Try moving the router to a higher position or toward an open area, away from walls and other obstructions. Ideally, the router should be placed at a central point in the house to extend coverage in all directions.
2. Use a Wifi Extender
A wifi extender is a device that boosts the strength of the wifi signal, extending coverage to areas where the signal is weak. A wifi extender is an excellent solution for individuals who have a large house or numerous obstructions that hinder the wifi signal. Here are some steps for setting up a wifi extender:
- Choose a type of wifi extender that suits your needs (plug-in or desktop).
- Connect the wifi extender to the router using an Ethernet cable or wireless connection.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to configure the extender, which may include entering the router’s SSID and password.
- Plug in the wifi extender in an area where the signal is weak, midway between the router and the device you want to connect.
There are many wifi extenders available on the market, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Some popular brands include Netgear, TP-Link, and Linksys.
3. Upgrade to Mesh Wifi Systems
A mesh wifi system is a network of devices that work together to provide a stronger, more reliable signal throughout your house. Unlike traditional single-router setups, mesh wifi systems use multiple routers that are placed strategically throughout the house to ensure seamless connectivity. Here are some benefits of upgrading to a mesh wifi system:
- Improved coverage: Mesh wifi systems extend coverage to areas that a single router cannot adequately cover, such as basements, patios, and garages.
- Seamless connectivity: Devices can switch between routers automatically, ensuring a consistent and reliable connection throughout the house.
- Easy setup: Unlike traditional router setups that require extensive wiring and configuration, mesh systems can be set up within minutes using a smartphone app.
Some popular mesh wifi systems include Google Nest Wifi, Asus ZenWifi, and Eero.
Optimum Router Placement
Router placement is crucial for extending wifi range. Where you place the router determines how far the wifi signal can reach and can impact signal quality. Here are some suggestions for optimum router placement:
1. Central Location
The router should be placed in the central location of the house to extend coverage in all directions. Placing the router in a corner of the house can cause a directional signal and limit coverage in some areas.
2. Away from Walls and Obstructions
Placing the router against a wall or near other obstructions can weaken the signal strength. Ideally, the router should be placed in an open area away from walls, furniture, and other objects that can block the signal.
3. Elevated Position
Placing the router at a higher position, such as on a shelf or desk, can improve signal strength by reducing the number of obstructions that interfere with the signal.
Advanced Router Settings
Your router’s firmware interface has several settings you can adjust to optimize wifi range and signal quality. Here are some settings you can adjust to improve signal strength:
1. Channel Selection
Most routers come preset to the default channel, which can cause congestion in areas where there are many wifi networks. Changing the channel to a lesser used one can improve signal strength and reduce interference from other networks.
2. Quality of Service (QoS) Settings
QoS settings prioritizes bandwidth usage, ensuring that critical applications such as video streaming and gaming receive the most bandwidth. Prioritizing bandwidth can reduce signal congestion and improve signal strength and signal quality.
3. Signal Strength Adjustment
Adjusting the signal strength can improve the wifi range and help overcome obstructions. Reducing the signal strength helps prevent over-the-air signal leakage, while increasing it helps extend coverage to farther areas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, extending wifi range is essential for anyone who values their online connections. By following the tips and tricks we have outlined in this article, you can take actionable steps to extend wifi range, overcome obstacles, and boost signal strength and signal quality. Whether you choose to relocate your router, use a wifi extender, upgrade to mesh wifi, optimize router placement, or adjust advanced router settings, there is a solution that can help you improve your wifi coverage and enhance your online experience.
