Improving Wireless Performance

Wireless routers were designed to make life easier, but weak signal strength and slow connections can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are several easy remedies for improving the performance of your home wireless network signal.

Centralize the router

One way to improve your wireless signal is to position the router in a central location. The closer the router is to your wireless devices, the stronger the signal will be. Open areas are better for the signal than walls; even opening a door to the room where your router is located can help. Metal tends to block the signal, so ensure that your router isn't sitting behind your PC. It's also helpful to keep it a few feet off the ground.

Change the channel

A different channel can also strengthen your wireless signal. If you live in a densely populated area and can see your neighbors' routers on your wireless network list, there's a chance you're on the same frequency. This will cause static just like on a radio, and changing the router's channel will not only help you but your neighbors as well. Consult the administrative web page for your router to learn how to change its settings. (The URL for the administrative page is often listed on the back of the router.) The settings for channels should be easy to find once you've gotten this far.

Firmware updates

While you're reviewing the router's administrative page, you may also want to check for software and firmware updates. If available, they will almost certainly help improve your router's speed and signal strength. Some updates also enhance your router's security. This is important to help protect your personal information and to prevent others from leeching your signal, which can slow things down as well.

Upgrade your hardware

If your wireless connection doesn't improve with any of these quick fixes, you might also want to try upgrading your hardware. If you have a small home, a newer router with a stronger signal may help. If you live in a larger house, you may want to consider adding a wireless repeater so you can have wireless signals in more rooms. Even changing or improving the antenna can help considerably. While buying a new router may not be your first choice, it is the one option that almost guarantees a better wireless signal in your home.


Tags:  router signal wireless improve updates channel administrative changing settings almost