How to Improve Wi-Fi Signal at Home

What Do You Need To Fix Weak Wi-Fi At Home?

Tools and equipment mentioned in the video include:

• Existing modem or router
• Wi-Fi extender or range extender
• Mesh router system with satellite access points
• Power line adapters
• Available power points
• 240 electrical wiring within the walls
• Ethernet cable
• Hardwired data point
• Wireless access point
• Point-to-point sender devices
• Computer for a speed test
• Roof space or underfloor access where a data cable may need to run

How Do You Improve Wi-Fi Signal Step By Step?

Step 1: Check What Is Using Your Wi-Fi

Start by looking at how many devices use the network.

Aaron says the average household has 25 internet-connected devices, including computers, phones, TVs, gaming consoles, streaming devices, smart plugs, and appliances.

If several people use these devices at once, one modem or router may no longer give enough coverage.

Step 2: Decide Whether A Wi-Fi Extender Is Enough

A Wi-Fi extender can help broaden the range of your network. It connects to your Wi-Fi like any other device, then rebroadcasts the signal.

The setup is usually simple. Plug the extender into a power point, connect to the temporary wireless network it creates, then follow the setup wizard.

This can be a low-cost option, but Aaron says it is not always the best outcome.

Step 3: Place The Wi-Fi Extender Carefully

Do not place an extender anywhere and expect it to work well.

Aaron explains that extenders are fussy about positioning. They need to sit close enough to the router to receive a good signal, but also close enough to the weak area where you want better coverage.

Another issue is speed. Half of the extender’s signal connects back to the router, and only half connects to your device. That means you may only get half of the speed the range extender can provide.

Extenders may also create a different network name, or SSID. You may need to manually choose the right network as you move around the house.

Step 4: Consider A Mesh Router For Better Roaming

A mesh router system works a bit like an extender, but it is more advanced.

The satellite access points in a mesh system are designed to work as a team. They use the same network name, so your phone, laptop, or tablet can connect to the best point without you thinking about it.

The downside is cost. Aaron also warns that mesh routers can still struggle in difficult locations.

Step 5: Check Whether Power Line Adapters Suit Your Home

A power line adapter sends a wired internet connection through the 240 electrical wiring already in your walls. The socket where you plug it in becomes a new network point.

Some power line adapters also have Wi-Fi built in.

The catch is that both plugs need to be on the same electrical circuit. Power line adapters can also be affected by electrical interference from appliances on the same circuit.

They are also limited by where your power points are. If there is no suitable power point near the weak Wi-Fi area, this may not solve the problem.

Step 6: Choose A Hardwired Data Point For A Stronger Fix

Aaron’s recommended option is a hard line data point.

This involves running an ethernet cable from the location of your router or modem to the location where you need an internet connection.

Once the data point is installed, you can connect a device directly into it. You can also connect a wireless access point to improve Wi-Fi coverage in that part of the home.

Aaron describes this as the most reliable solution for improving Wi-Fi strength and speed within the home.

Step 7: Add A Wireless Access Point Where Coverage Drops

A hardwired data point works best when it supports how you use the home.

For example, you might run the ethernet cable to a study, living area, upstairs room, garage, or office. From there, an access point can create stronger Wi-Fi in that zone.

Aaron says a hardwired data point gives you a dedicated data connection that cannot be impacted by interference from other devices within the home.

The main limitation is access. Running a data cable may not always be possible if the home has limited roof space or underfloor access.

For related help, see Jim’s Antennas for antennas, Wi-Fi, internet, data points, and phone and data services.

Step 8: Use A Point-To-Point Sender For Detached Areas

A point-to-point sender can send internet wirelessly from one point to another.

Aaron gives the example of a pool house 20, 30 metres away from the main house. A technician can install one sender on the main house, run a data line back to the modem, then install another sender on the pool house.

From there, another data cable can run inside the pool house. An access point can then provide seamless Wi-Fi in that area.

This avoids digging up pavers or running a cable underground. It gives you a wireless link from one building to another.

Jim’s Antennas and Security may also help where Wi-Fi coverage connects with broader home technology, such as Jim’s Security systems or other connected devices.

Step 9: Run A Speed Test Near The Router

If the Wi-Fi improves but the internet still feels slow, the issue may be your internet connection.

Aaron recommends running a speed test. The best option is to use a computer plugged into your router.

If you must test over Wi-Fi, stand next to your router or access point. If the result is still poor, contact your internet service provider.

Common Wi-Fi Fixes That Can Make The Problem Worse

Do not assume one modem or router can cover every home. With 25 internet-connected devices in the average household, one access point may not be enough.

Do not buy a Wi-Fi extender only because it is cheap. Extenders can reduce available speed, create a separate network name, and need careful placement.

Do not place an extender too far from the router. It needs a strong signal before it can rebroadcast one.

Do not assume power line adapters work anywhere. They need the same electrical circuit and can be affected by appliances and interference.

Do not spend money on mesh without checking the layout. Mesh can be useful, but difficult locations can still cause coverage issues.

Do not skip the speed test. Slow internet after a Wi-Fi fix may point to the internet service provider, not the home network.

FAQs About Weak Wi-Fi, Extenders, Mesh And Data Points