7 ways to speed up Wi-Fi

Technology

Getting tired of downloading some important files or connecting with your valued clients using the office Wi-Fi? The offices that we work in today are heavily dependent on the Internet and ultimately the routers that we use to enable its connection. To keep the daily operations up and running, a speedy Wi-Fi connection is the key.

Here are seven ways to improve Wi-Fi working:

1. Centralisation and elevation of router

To get optimal signal strength, place the router in the middle of the room, away from electrical devices and walls that could hamper its functionality. It is a good idea to keep the router at a slightly higher position if it is sending signals to multiple devices. The higher placement will help you get better Wi-Fi coverage.

2. Repositioning of antennas

Try to position the antennas in a perpendicular position — one horizontal and one vertical as perpendicularly positioned antennas ensure optimal wireless reception.

3. Using powerline network adapters

It is difficult to keep the router centrally located in an office amidst other multi-storey buildings. The next best alternative is to employ powerline network adapters. These devices utilise the electrical wiring in the walls. Initially, you would need to plug the adapter in near to and link it with your router with an Ethernet cable. Then plug in the second adapter once you have selected the room for network coverage. Internet connectivity will then be provided at better speed.

4. Securing your wireless router

With strong wireless security you can prevent your network bandwidth from being hogged by unauthorised users. Security is also essential to safeguard the network from being compromised by external threats that cause undesired downtime. Once you login to your router’s admin page, upgrade the encryption system to WPA2 and choose a password that you or your network administrators can remember easily.

5. Using a heat mapping software

This software lets you see how your wireless heat map appears. It can show you exactly how much coverage each area is receiving. With this information you can reposition the router into a favourable position, adjust its antennas or powerline network adapters to eliminate knotty areas.

6. Upgrading to 5 Gig Wi-Fi

There are two frequencies to pick from: 2.4 and 5 GHz. The offices that have several laptops and mobile phones connected to Wi-Fi can soon make the 2.4 GHz spectrum crowded. The solution to this problem is switching over to 5 GHz spectrum that enables working on more devices without creating clutter on the Wi-Fi network.

7. Turning old routers into Wi-Fi repeaters

To extend your network, the next alternative is to transform your old router into a wireless bridge. For this you will need to install custom firmware on your router that can be done by professionals.

Source: timesofoman