We’ve come to expect a lot over the last couple of decades where communications technology is concerned. Remember long ago when you had to call people on a telephone and (gasp!) leave a message on the answering machine? These days you can not only call on your mobile device from anywhere, wirelessly, but you can use your mobile devices to send emails and text messages, video chat, or even get directions, download streaming content, and order clothing and cosmetics instead of going to the store to buy them. Best of all, you can perform these tasks in the blink of an eye. Well, you can if your home WiFi is up to snuff. If you’re suffering from lag time and poor signal strength, you might need a bit of a boost. Here are a few tips to improve reception and get the show on the road, so to speak.
- Call your provider. You’re not the only one stymied by poor WiFi reception at home, and since most homeowners are not experts in internet technology, your best bet is probably to call the help line for your internet service provider. Tech support specialists should be able to ping your system, see potential problems, and offer you simple solutions. It’s worth a try, anyway, before you start spending money on upgrades.
- Don’t bury your box. As you are probably aware, WiFi routers turn your normally hard-wired internet connection into awireless signal that you can use to connect to the internet via mobile devices. But there is a limit to the range of these devices. And where you place your box can make a difference in the signal strength you enjoy in various areas of your home. A central location is best not only because it can more evenly distribute a signal to the far corners of your home, but also because your appliances and electronics can disrupt the signal, and the more you place between your router and your mobile devices, the more interference you’re likely to suffer.
- Update firmware. Every so often you’ll have to upgrade to newer hardware if you want to enjoy the speediest connection and best reception. But probably not as often as you think. Your hardware can last a good long while so long as you make sure to update your firmware regularly. In most cases, associated software will allow you to auto schedule this task so you don’t even have to think about it.
- Use a password. Password protection is a must if you want to get the best possible service from your WiFi network. When you fail to take this step, any Tom, Dick, or Harry within range can piggyback on your signal, suck up your bandwidth, and impact your personal usage.
- Boost your signal. Until your service provider gets on the ball and installs antennas fromSunsight Instruments in your area, you might be on your own where boosting your wireless signal is concerned. The good news is you can install a range extender for your personal use and enjoy greater reception in your home.