6 ways to boost your Wi-Fi speed

Ever notice how your wireless network always chooses the worst possible times to die out, such as when you’re getting to the climax of a show on Netflix? Below are six quick and easy tips on speeding up a sluggish Wi-Fi connection. 

Place your router in the best location

To get the most out of your router, be sure it’s positioned in the center of your home. Remember that Wi-Fi signals hate brick, glass, metal, and insulation, because materials such as these can impede the signal. For the most reliable connection, position your router in an open space in the middle of your home, and keep it located as high off the floor as possible, such as on a table or shelf.

Set your router away from wireless signals

This goes for devices such as Bluetooth speakers and baby monitors, which can hamper your wireless signal. If you find it impossible to keep your router clear of such interferences, look into purchasing a dual band router.

Keep your router away from electronic devices

It seems that many people keep their routers near the TV or phone, but this inhibits the signal. As previously mentioned, it’s best to set your router apart from other electronic devices, such as monitors, speakers, and AC power cords.

Use a password

Protecting your home network with a password helps keep it up to speed, while also offering security. Check in regularly to see which devices are using your network at any given time, and be sure there aren't any pesky neighbors feeding off of your connection. The more devices, the slower the network’s speed will be.

Schedule your router to reboot regularly

Rebooting your router is a safe way to give it a boost. Rather than manually resetting it every time your Wi-Fi slows down, set up an automatic schedule so that it restarts once a week, for example.

Buy a new router

If none of the tips above help, and it’s been a few years since you bought your router, your best bet is to buy a new one. Technology is constantly evolving, so make sure your devices are compatible and up to speed. 

Have any tricks of your own to add? Leave a comment below.