If your Wi-Fi is not performing at its optimal state, there are ways for you to fix it.
Many people mistake Wi-Fi networks for virtual fields with signals that can penetrate walls, withstand interruption, and have limitless capacity, but this is far from the truth.
Where you put your router, and the things (or people) you surround it with, can have a direct effect on its performance. You can’t make the most of nbn broadband plans if your router slows your connection down.
Read on if you want to get tips on how to set up your network for top efficiency.
Put it where you use it
If you put your router near a window, a good chunk of the signals will go to waste. Move your router where you often use the Internet so that the signal will be strongest in there. This would include areas near the centre of your home or in the centre of the room where you often use Wi-Fi connected devices.
Leave it out in the open
Wi-Fi signals can get absorbed by materials surrounding the router. Keeping the router in a closet or behind the couch by the wall will prevent its radio waves from traveling through open air. Place the router in an open space so it doesn’t get blocked by electronics, furniture, and walls.
Move it away from other electronics
Your router’s signal can get affected by the electronic devices surrounding it. This could mean anything from your TV to your microwave, and even wireless phones – basically anything emitting electromagnetic signals. A good rule of thumb is to position your router away from as many of these as possible.
Note that water, furniture, mirrors, and metal objects can also block Wi-Fi signals, so keep your router away from these as well.
Adjust the antenna
Router signals travel in a perpendicular direction from the antennas where it’s coming from. So, positioning your antenna vertically will broadcast the signal horizontally. Apart from that, aligning the antenna with the router itself can help maximise reception. For best results, put one of the antennas in a vertical position, and the other one in a horizontal position.
Run speed tests
The purpose of running a speed test is to determine whether the problem really is with the router or with your ISP. To identify which one, run two speeds tests: one over the Wi-Fi, and another with your computer plugged into the router. If the speed test shows a much slower result on the Wi-Fi, then the router is your culprit. Otherwise, you need to call your provider.
Replace it
If you’ve tried various fixes and you’re sure the problem is not with your ISP, it may be time to upgrade to a new router. Replacing your router with a newer one can make a huge difference because the technology used to broadcast signals has gone through many changes and has become more sophisticated over the years.
You may also opt to replace just the antenna of your router with a more powerful one. But, if you plan to do this, you have to check if your current router can support it. Another technique is to buy a repeater – this will extend the range of your current network, spreading it more widely in the area.
Fast nbn® broadband Internet provides countless benefits for Australians.  Activ8me can provide you with the right advice to connect and make the most of the nbn®. To check availability, go to our homepage www.activ8me.net.au then type your address in the “Get Deals” section or call us directly on 13 22 88.

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