Updated on Apr 03, 2023

How to Boost Your WiFi Signal: 8 Proven Strategies

After a long day at work, all you want to do is kick off your shoes and relax by surfing the internet. But when you sit down on the couch and pull out your phone, you'll find that the WiFi signal is so weak that it's almost nonexistent.This was the last straw that broke the camel's back.After a long day, the last thing you want to do is deal with frustratingly slow internet speeds.It'll be okay. Because there are many tried-and-true ways to improve your WiFi signal and make sure you never have a slow connection again.So, if you're tired of your poor internet signal, keep reading to learn the 8 tried-and-true strategies for improving your WiFi signal.

Table of Contants
● Check Your Wired Internet Connection
● Choose a Good Place for Your Router
● Update Router Firmware
● Give Your Microwave a Rest
● Try a Less Congested Wireless Channel
● Buy a More Powerful Antenna
● Switch to 5 GHz or 6 GHz
● Don't Forget to Reboot

8 Proven Strategies to Boost Your WiFi Signal

1. Check Your Wired Internet Connection
 
Check Your Wired Internet Connection
Hey! Before blaming WiFi, make sure the network going into your home is working. 
Connect your laptop to the router with an Ethernet cable for verification. You'll need a USB-to-Ethernet adapter (opens in a new window) if your laptop doesn't have internet.
Next, try your internet speed (opens in a new window). 
If it's slower than your Internet bill, call your ISP or replace your router or modem.
2. Choose a Good Place for Your Router

Choose a Good Place for Your Router
Listen up, up, up if you want the most out of your router. 
Placing the router in a higher position can improve the coverage of the wireless signal, reduce interference from obstacles such as walls and furniture, and improve the router's ability to send and receive data quickly. So if you put it low, some signal will drop.
If you don't want to do your job in a cold basement, move your router upstairs. Your router will be happy, and your WiFi signal will be stronger.
3. Update Router Firmware

Update Router Firmware
Do you often hear about large-scale malware attacks in the news? 
This is because routers with old software create holes that hackers can use.
Even if you're not worried about malware, it's still important to keep your router up to date.
In another study, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)found that unupdated devices lost more data and were slower.
If your router's firmware is old, it might not work as well and even cause problems connecting to the internet. 
By updating your router's firmware, you'll make sure it's working at its best and giving you the strongest WiFi signal possible.
This HelloTechHow explains router software updates.
4. Give Your Microwave a Rest
 
Give Your Microwave a Rest
Another idea that sounds a little weird is avoiding the microwave while streaming. 
Even if they aren't trying to destroy your WiFi, the small amount of radiation they give off can mess up your signal.
Now, I know what you're thinking: is the microwave really messing up my WiFi? 
The answer is yes. 
In fact, microwaves send out radio waves, just like your WiFi router. While you're warming up your breakfast pizza, you might disconnect some devices for a short time. 
Incredible! Right?
Therefore, if you want your signal to stay strong and steady, don't use the microwave for a while.
5. Try a Less Congested Wireless Channel

Try a Less Congested Wireless Channel
Another simple but effective solution is to try a less congested wireless channel.
WiFi is a multi-lane freeway. WiFi routers use various channels based on their frequency band and local regulations. 
The 2.4 GHz band's four non-overlapping 20 MHz channels cause noisy traffic jams that slow data flow.
As if that wasn't bad enough, many people keep to the default channel, usually channel 1 or 6, causing WiFi traffic congestion with too many packets trying to squeeze into the same channel.
What to do? ? ?
The answer is easy: switch to the least-occupied channel. 
So, don't stay stuck in a WiFi traffic jam - switch to a less crowded channel and enjoy smoother data transmission!
6. Buy a More Powerful Antenna

Buy a More Powerful Antenna
Did you know that most WiFi routers are equipped with small, weak antennas that don't perform as well as more powerful ones? 
While manufacturers don't try to skimp on quality, they often sacrifice antenna size for affordability. 
However, if you're willing to invest in a larger antenna, this can be a great way to boost your home or office WiFi signal without buying a new router.
7. Switch to 5 GHz or 6 GHz

Switch to 5 GHz or 6 GHz
If your internet speed is still at a snail's pace,consider switching to either the 5 GHz or 6 GHz wireless frequency. 
These frequencies offer faster data rates over shorter distances and are typically less crowded than the 2.4 GHz frequency band. 
So if your router supports either of these frequencies, give them a try and enjoy a speedy internet connection in no time.
8. Don't Forget to Reboot


Reboot Your Router
The timeless IT advice "if it doesn't work, try turning it on and off" applies to WiFi routers as well. 
Restarting your computer can often improve your WiFi speed
To restart your router, press the restart button located on the back (you may need a pointed object like a pen to reach it, as many router manufacturers use a recessed restart button) or simply disconnect power to the router, and then turn it back.

Takeaway

Congratulations! You now have eight proven strategies to boost your WiFi signal and enhance your internet experience. Whether you're working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or gaming with friends, a strong and reliable WiFi connection is essential. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can optimize your wireless network for better performance, faster speeds, and wider coverage. So go ahead and put these strategies into action and say goodbye to buffering, dropped calls, and slow download speeds!
If you're worried about forgetting these helpful tips and tricks, feel free to save the image below for easy reference:

Last updated on Apr 03, 2023
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