Slow internet can be debilitating. The 21st century runs through the interweb, and if you don’t have a strong and fast connection, you can encounter various issues. Sometimes, these are minor annoyances, like a buffering movie. At other times, they can be detrimental, like dropping an important video call from your home office.
If you’re having trouble with your internet, here are a few of the best ways to improve your speed without spending a fortune.
1. Enhance Your Current Setup
If your Wi-Fi connection is steady but not strong, you may not need to scrap everything and start from scratch. Instead, look for a way to boost your existing Wi-Fi setup.
For instance, shop for a Wi-Fi solution that boosts your current signal. Ideally, this should be a device with Wi-Fi 6 and a cloud-based administrative system. That way, you can introduce cutting-edge tech to support your existing setup, strengthen your signal, and adapt to updates over time.
2. Consider Replacing Your Wi-Fi System
Let’s rip this Band-Aid off, shall we? If your system is old and boosting it doesn’t work, you may have to replace it to get a consistent signal. This can be done in various ways, some of which are too pricey — i.e., you’re paying for more than you need — and others too cheap — i.e., they’re so cheap they don’t last.
The important thing is finding a system that is affordable and dependable. Many Wi-Fi routers are under $100, but you want to ensure that you read the reviews before you enter your card information.
See if the system you’re looking at is worth the cash or if it will break soon or fail to provide a strong enough signal. You may also want to consider getting a mesh Wi-Fi system. Often, you can do so in installments. Buy the base unit now and add more units to your network over time.
3. Reposition Your Router
Next, consider where your router, new or old, is located. Common things to look out for include the device’s distance from your electronics. IfYou will have trouble, you’re trying to stream a movie on the other side of the house, But there’s more to the issue than mere geography. For instance, is your router down low? On the ground floor or even in the basement? Conventional wisdom recommends placing your router:
- In a central location where it can reach as far as possible in every direction;
- High up, either mounted on a wall or in the second story of the house;
- Away from other electronics and metal objects that could obstruct the signal.
Finding a central, open, and high-up location can help you get the best signal possible from your existing equipment.
4. Monkey with the Antennas
If your router has antennas, you may also want to look at their positioning. Many Wi-Fi routers don’t have external antennas, and even if yours does, they may be stationary.
If you can move your antennas, you may want to try adjusting them a bit. If all antennas point up or in a single direction, that can limit your signal.
Angle your antennas either perpendicular to one another or in various directions. This will ensure you cover as much of your home as possible.
Doing this is unlikely to dramatically adjust your home’s internet speed. However, it can be just the trick if you have pockets where the signal is sub-par.
5. Adjust Your Frequency
The frequency of your Wi-Fi can greatly impact both the range and strength of your signal. The most common frequencies offered are 2.4GHz and 5GHz. These two ranges are often provided via two different connections on the same network. a
At first glance, joining the 5GHz line seems to be a no-brainer, and in many cases, that’s true. However, it’s important to consider the difference between the two options. A 5GHz frequency is an indicator of a stronger, more robust signal. However, a 2.4GHz signal tends to reach farther. So, if you’re trying to operate with a device distant from your router, joining the 5GHz frequency may do more harm than good.
In addition, many devices work better on one network or the other. For instance, a mobile device like a tablet or phone should be on your 2.4GHz frequency since they move around. Smart thermostats, speakers, and security cameras can also join that frequency due to the minimal required data.
Similarly, a bigger item, like a laptop, desktop, smart TV, or gaming console, should go on your 5GHz network — assuming they’re close enough to connect well. This will allow them to take advantage of the maximum speed within your network.
There are many ways to improve your internet speed without dropping hundreds of dollars on a fancy new Wi-Fi system. Start with basic steps like repositioning your router and adjusting the antennas. Shift your devices to the right frequencies to ensure that they function at peak efficiency within your current setup.
If you still don’t have enough juice, avoid the temptation to spend money on the issue by increasing your service package with your ISP (internet service provider). First, try using a Wi-Fi 6-equipped booster. If that isn’t enough, look for a low-cost, high-quality router, ideally as part of a mesh system that you can add to in the future.
Whatever way you choose to go, there are many options available before you have to resort to a more expensive solution. These are well worth investigating first. After all, if the issue with your internet speed has to do with something subtle, like your router’s location or frequency, spending a bunch of money on a new system may not even solve the problem.
It’s always better to try cost-effective methods first, hoping the issue will resolve itself as you go along. Happy troubleshooting!
