How to Improve Your Internet Connection and Boost Wi-Fi Signal?

Having a reliable internet connection has become a priority for individuals and businesses alike. In today’s competitive business environment, you can’t let the issue of internet outages affect your productivity. It is worth mentioning that your internet speed may not always perform up to the level.  

One of the reasons behind slow internet connection is poor Wi-Fi signal quality. But before we discuss ways to boost your signal strength, let’s explore other reasons as to why your internet could be slow.  

What Factors Affect Internet Speed?

Different factors can affect your home internet speed. Keep reading to know more. 

Memory Clog

Machines can work without getting tired. The same can be said about your home router. However, working continuously might cause some temporary issues to arise within your router. Because our Wi-Fi routers work 24/7, they might get slowed down. One way to fix this is to give the device a hard reset.  

Internet Throttling

Internet throttling is the act of intentionally slowing down internet speeds by ISPs. Most internet companies throttle the internet to prevent users from consuming all of their bandwidth. If you’re facing slow internet speeds, check whether you have reached your data cap.  

Pending Updates

Updates fix bugs and glitches in systems. Software and programs require updates to perform at optimum levels. In case you’re experiencing slow internet speeds, chances are there’s a new update for your equipment software. You can check for new updates for your internet equipment by visiting your provider’s website.  

Cache Memory

Accumulated data can slow down your internet connection. It is advisable to clear cache and browsing data from your system to improve your internet speed.  

Too Many Ads

Ads that often pop up on your screen while you’re browsing can slow down your internet connection. To improve your browsing experience, install an ad blocker on your system. This way you’ll be able to enjoy an uninterrupted browsing session.  

Unused Connected Devices

A home internet connection can support a limited number of devices at a time. If you find any unused device connected to your internet, disconnect it. Another method is to change your Wi-Fi password. This way, you’ll be able to improve your internet speeds.  

New Internet Plans

Sometimes, the issue resides at the provider’s end. If that’s the case, then you should consider getting a new internet connection powered by Optimum packages.  

How to Improve Your Internet Connection and Wi-Fi Signal Strength?

No matter whether you are a streamer or someone who’s working their daily shift from home, you need a reliable internet connection. The internet is no longer a luxury. It is almost everywhere. Safe to say that the internet has become one of the most important parts of our daily lives.  

You can run a speed test to determine the speed you are getting. Doing an internet speed test is a good way to know your download and upload speeds as well as ping time. To run a speed test, just Google the query and you’ll know what speed you’re getting for your home internet speeds.  

That said, here are five ways to improve your internet connection:  

Upgrade Your Home Internet Security Protocols

One of the best ways to improve your internet connection is to update your internet security features. Keeping your internet connection open is never a good idea. Without added protection, your home Wi-Fi is vulnerable to freeloaders and hackers.  

It is advisable to protect your home Wi-Fi with robust passwords and other security credentials. The more unused devices are connected to your network, the less bandwidth you will be getting for your devices. It is always a good move to install WPAS security features on your home internet.  

Check Your Router Settings

You can look for different features by testing your router settings. This method is seen to improve your internet connection and boost your Wi-Fi signal strength. Some routers come with entertainment settings. Wi-Fi routers that have these settings provide better streaming features. However, such features can affect internet speeds. You can turn off entertainment settings on your router to improve your internet speeds.  

Resetting the Request to Send (RTS) on your router is another way to boost internet speeds in your home. This method is great if you live in a crowded space such as an apartment or a big house. Configuring your RTS threshold is one of the best ways to improve your internet speeds.  

Get a New Router

Outdated internet equipment is among the biggest causes of slow internet speeds. In case your router is old, replace it immediately with a device such as Cox’s Panoramic WiFi. There’s no point in holding on to the aging device. New Wi-Fi routers come with great features such as the latest DOCSIS 3.1 technology. Also, they are compatible with multiple devices.   

Switch Between Wi-Fi Channels

Upgrade to a new Wi-Fi channel if you want to enhance your Wi-Fi performance. Switching between different Wi-Fi channels can help you receive additional bandwidth. It is advisable to switch to a 5 GHz channel from the standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi channel. This can reduce interference on your router’s signals and prevent memory from clogging up.  

It should be noted that not all Wi-Fi routers support the 5 GHz channel. If you have the standard 2.4 GHz router, consider choosing a 1, 6, or 11 GHz Wi-Fi channel. It is worth mentioning that these channels face less interference when it comes to channel overlapping.  

Reposition Your Wi-Fi Router

Change your router placement to boost the Wi-Fi signal strength. Repositioning the router is a proven way to get better and stronger signals. Make sure that your router isn’t placed in dead spaces or in-between furniture. Even walls can affect signal strength.  

It is advisable to move your router to an elevated spot to improve the signal strength. You can improve the Wi-Fi signal upstairs by placing your device atop a cupboard or a shelf. This method is seen to reduce interference and can get you better internet speeds.