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However, it has fewer channels, which means there’s often a huge number of devices all competing for signal at the same time. This means you can be further from the router before you start noticing a weaker signal. Most routers use the 2.4GHz frequency band because it has a longer range. Sometimes this can also help to boost WiFi signal throughout your home. And if you have a dual-band WiFi router like the Virgin Media hub, you’ll be able to select the frequency you want to use. There are two frequency bands that can be used to send information between a router and a device.
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And while it may be tempting, don’t place any ornaments or photo frames on top, as anything sitting on the router can weaken signal strength. This means avoiding hiding it away behind a sofa, or placing it inside a cupboard or cabinet. It’s best practice to place your router in as open an area as possible. At the same time, if the whole family uses devices in different rooms, finding a centralised location can be the smartest move. The fewer obstacles in the way, the less the signal will weaken on its journey between the two.įor example, if you conduct most online activities from your home office, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to keep the router two rooms away behind concrete walls. Ideally, you should have the shortest, clearest path possible from your router to your devices. When deciding where to position your router, it’s also important to think about obstacles. WiFi signal tends to project outwards and downwards from the router, so placing it in a higher position and facing it into the room can help to create the clearest pathway for the signal. As WiFi signal is transmitted at the same frequency and on the same channel as many other radio waves in your home, there can be significant interference which can have a huge impact on your WiFi strength.įor example, did you know that everything from baby monitors and kids’ walkie-talkies to Bluetooth speakers and microwaves can cause interference? It’s important to try and position your router away from these common household items to try and avoid interference as much as possible.Īs well as the location of the router, it’s also important to consider how the router is placed in position. One of the easiest ways to boost your WiFi signal is to rethink where you place your router. Here are 10 very quick and simple ways to boost WiFi signal and improve the reliability of the connection between router and device.
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