How to get the most from your wifi
With more demands than ever on our home’s internet, Ofcom has launched a new campaign to help you boost your connection.
Image: Ken Tomita
When you have to work from home, slow or patchy internet suddenly becomes a lot more of a pressing concern, but those video meetings coupled with all that extra streaming and gaming from the kids being at home are likely to be putting more demands than ever on your home broadband.
To help everyone stay connected, Ofcom has launched a new information campaign to ensure everyone can get what they need from their broadband during this time where your home connectivity is key to communicating with the outside world.
So if you’re having issues with your broadband, try these tips to get the most out of your service.
Move your router
You should keep your router away from other devices, especially those that operate wirelessly, as this can all affect your wifi signal. Cordless phones, baby monitors, halogen lamps, dimmer switches, stereos and computer speakers, TVs and monitors are the major culprits, but so is a microwave oven, something to keep in mind when you’re on video calls!
Your router is best placed on a table or shelf, rather than on the floor.
Disconnect devices
Having more devices connected to your router will lower your broadband speeds, so disconnect any that aren’t in use to optimise your internet. You may also have to ask others in the household for help to prioritise certain internet-based tasks. If you have an important business video call, those who want to use the connection for HD streaming or gaming may need to wait.
Plug into your main socket
Where possible, plug your router into your main phone socket without using an extension lead, as this can cause interference. If you do need an extension, ensure it’s new and high-quality, and the hsortest length possible. Tangled or coiled up leads can cause interference too!
Use wired internet
If you’re desperate for a faster and more reliable connection for a task, connect your computer to the router directly with an Ethernet cable. You may already have one around the house, but if not, they’re available for around £3, and can be found in most large supermarkets.
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