WiFi has revolutionized the way we use the internet; from streaming movies anywhere, we like to connect with our families and friends any time, as long as there’s a WiFi connection. But we’ve all been there. You’re trying to connect to the WiFi, and the signal just won’t reach your device — maybe you can connect, but the connection is so slow it might as well not exist.
Regardless of your unpleasant experience with dead spots in your home and office, we’ve compiled some ways how to improve WiFi coverage so that you can make the most out of your wireless internet.
What Is WiFi and How Does It Work?
WiFi is a technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed internet and network connections. A typical WiFi network consists of a router that sends and receives data (like your internet browsing data) through the air, using radiofrequency (RF) signals.
These RF signals are beamed around in what’s called a “spherical radiation pattern” from the router’s antennae. However, the strength of these signals will degrade the further away you are from the router. This is why you might find that your WiFi connection cuts out when you move to a different room in your house — or even just to a different part of the same room.
Most internet plans usually come with routers and modems, regardless of which provider you choose. However, it would help to subscribe to one with an established reputation to ensure the quality of service you’ll receive. Companies like Verizon, Xfinity and GotW3 Internet are leading when it comes to wireless internet.
What Are WiFi Dead Spots or Dead Zones?
A WiFi dead zone (sometimes called a WiFi drop, dead spot, or blackspot) is an area in your home or office where the wireless signal from your router doesn’t reach. This can be really frustrating, especially if you’re trying to use your internet for something important like working from home or streaming a movie.
What Causes WiFi Dead Zones?
While you may be tempted to blame your wireless provider like Cox Communication or Charter Spectrum, in most cases, it’s not really their fault. There are a few different things that can cause WiFi dead zones in your home or office, including the following:
- Walls and other obstacles: WiFi signals can’t pass through walls or other solid objects, so if there’s a wall or something else between your router and where you’re trying to connect, it can weaken the signal or block it entirely.
- Distance from the router: It is believed that the further away you are from the router, the weaker your signal will be. That’s why you might find that your connection is better in some rooms of your house than in others.
- Interference from other devices: WiFi signals can be interfered with by other devices that are using the same or similar frequencies, like baby monitors, microwaves, and cordless phones.
- Wireless interference: If you live in an apartment building or other close quarters, your neighbors’ WiFi networks can interfere with yours and cause dead spots.
How to Improve WiFi Coverage in Your House or Office
Now that you know what causes WiFi dead zones, here are some ways to fix them and improve your WiFi coverage:
1. Move your router.
The first thing you can try is simply moving your router to a different location. If it’s currently in the corner of the house, try moving it to the center. If it’s on the ground floor, try moving it upstairs. Sometimes, a simple change like this can make a big difference in your WiFi signal. It’s a trial and error process as what works for other houses or offices might not work for others.
2. Upgrade your router.
Having an old or outdated router you’ve been using the same router for a few years, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer routers come with features like better range, stronger signal, and improved speed. If you have the budget for it, upgrading to a newer router can make a big difference in your WiFi coverage.
If you’re not confident in buying a router from your local store, you might as well ask directly from your current internet provider. For example, if you’re a HughesNet customer. You simply need to call their hotline, ask if they can replace or upgrade your router, and wait for their response. If they allow you to upgrade for an extra charge, you might want to ask if you can have it at a discounted price as you’re a loyal, good-standing customer of theirs.
3. Change the channel.
if you’re experiencing interference from other devices or networks, changing the channel that your router is using can sometimes help. To do this, you’ll need to log in to your router’s control panel and find the section for wireless settings. Once you’re in there, you should see a list of channels that you can choose from. We recommend you experiment with different channels to see if it improves your WiFi coverage.
4. Get a WiFi extender or repeater.
If you still can’t seem to get rid of dead spots in your home or office, you might want to invest in a WiFi extender or repeater. These devices amplify the signal from your router and extend its range, so it can reach further into your house or office. They’re easy to set up — just plug them into an outlet and connect them to your router — and they can make a big difference in your WiFi coverage.
5. Invest in a mesh WiFi system.
A mesh WiFi system is a newer type of WiFi network that uses multiple devices — or nodes — to create a single, cohesive network. They’re designed to eliminate dead spots and provide coverage for larger homes and offices. And since they don’t rely on a single router, if one node goes down, the others can pick up the slack.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been struggling with WiFi dead zones, give these tips a try and see if they help. And if you’re still having trouble, there are other options available, like power line adapters and cellular data hotspots. With a little trial and error, you’ll definitely be able to find the best solution for your WiFi that works for you.