Easy fixes to your Wi-Fi issues

From answering emails and using online productivity suites to browsing Facebook and streaming YouTube videos, a fast and reliable internet connection is a must. But what do you do when there are connectivity and speed issues? Here are some solutions to five of the most common Wi-Fi worries.

Range constraints

Wi-Fi works via radio waves that are broadcast from a central hub, usually a piece of hardware known as a router. To avoid a weak signal in your office, make sure:

• Your router is placed in a centralized location and not tucked away in the corner.
• Your Wi-Fi antennae are either in a fully horizontal or vertical position for optimal signal distribution.

Note that Wi-Fi range constraints can also occur from interference, so if your office is situated in a highly populated area, try changing your router’s channel.

Slow speeds

Despite a high-speed or fiber optic internet connection, slow load times can still occur for a number of reasons. To optimize speeds, try the following:

• Make sure your router is located in the same room as the devices connecting to it.
• Install more routers to better accommodate a high number of connected devices.
• Close bandwidth-intensive applications such as Skype, Dropbox, YouTube, and Facebook.
• Disable your router’s power-saving mode.
• Create a new router channel to avoid network bottlenecks.

Connection issues

We understand how frustrating it can be when the Wi-Fi network shows up on your device but still won’t connect. Before you give up, these solutions might help:

• Determine whether your Wi-Fi connection is the problem or if your internet is down by plugging your laptop directly into the router via an Ethernet cable. If you can’t get a connection, then Wi-Fi isn’t the culprit.
• Factory reset your router with a paperclip or a pen and hold down that tiny button for about 30 seconds.
• Try rebooting your device.

Unstable connections

Random hiccups in your Wi-Fi connection are normal from time to time. However, if they become a constant nuisance in your office, try the following quick fixes:

• Move your router to a different spot or even a different room.
• Avoid having too many routers in the same location, as that can confuse your device.

Network not found

Router glitches can result in your Wi-Fi network not appearing at all. Two solutions that can resolve this problem are:

• Disconnecting the router from the power source and waiting at least 30 seconds before reconnecting it.
• Replacing an old router; if it’s over three years old, you’re probably due for a replacement.

When you experience Wi-Fi issues, these tips will help you avoid serious downtime. But if you’d rather have a dedicated technology provider take care of your hardware needs, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help.