Optimize Your Internet Speed
Internet has become one of the most important components in your home, and it is critical that you do everything possible to optimize the speed within your walls so that you get the appropriate speed. These 7 tips will help to give you the best Internet experience possible.
- A wired connection is always fastest
Although WiFi 6 (IEEE 802.11ax) is extremely fast for a wireless connection, (tests in some environments have clocked speeds up to 1,500 Mbps download on the 5GHz band) a wired connection is still faster with a modern network adapter and router. Ultimately, your connection speed is only as fast as the slowest link. If speed is a priority for computers and laptops, run the wire and save WiFi signal for other devices. Streaming, gaming, and working from home are some functions that may work best while hard-wired. - Limit the number of connected devices
Multiple devices that are used simultaneously all share your bandwidth. Limiting the number of applications and devices running at the same time can help maximize your speeds. - Move your router to the center of your home
Relocating your router to a central area will help to prevent “dead zones” within the home. Obstructions such as concrete, brick, or stone walls can create WiFi signal barriers. Proximity to other electronic devices may also cause unwanted interference. We also recommend that you keep your router out in the open, rather than hidden in a cabinet or behind a wall. - Make sure your router and devices are up-to-date and capable of receiving the speed you need
Run updates on your devices and router as they become available. Check to make sure your devices and router are capable of receiving the speed you need/subscribe to. Some wireless routers must slow down to accommodate the speed of the slowest device on the network. - Clean your devices
Run virus scans and delete browsing history and cookies on a regular basis to keep your devices clean. We also recommend rebooting your devices regularly to clear any system errors, and turning off any devices not in use. - Password protect your WiFi
Always require a password to log into your WiFi network. If your WiFi is unsecured, close neighbors could access your network and drain your bandwidth. Having an unsecured WiFi network can also result in cyber threats. - Upgrade to a mesh router system
Upgrading to a mesh router system will eliminate “dead zones” within the home. Are you unsure of what system to go with? Try eero from Service Electric. eero blankets your whole home, leaving you with WiFi so good you’ll never have to think about WiFi again.
Contact our office if you have any questions regarding your Internet speeds.