How do I improve my Wi-Fi Speed?

Understanding how Wi-Fi works can make a huge difference to your experience. Maximize your Wi-Fi speeds with our top tips.

Create some space It's important to keep your router out in the open. Try to position it up off the floor in the centre of your house to maximize your coverage. Make sure it's not hidden away in closed cabinets behind bookcases or other pieces of furniture. Did you know if you turn your modem 90 degrees it can boost the signal

The further your signal has to travel the slower it will become so it's important to limit any obstacles that may block the wireless signal between your modem and device. For the best connection we would recommend you stay within 40 feet of your modem. Appliances like cordless phones, baby monitors, microwaves and Bluetooth devices can slow down your signal. If your house has internal concrete walls or foil backed insulation your Wi-Fi signal will find it difficult to pass through. Fish tanks and underfloor heating can also impact Wi-Fi signal. Wi-Fi doesn't travel well through water so make sure to keep your modem away from them. For poor Wi-Fi coverage its recommended to use Wi-Fi boosters.

Check all your devices. The more devices you have the slower your Wi-Fi can become. This is because your signal is being split between all of them. Wi-Fi is limited by your slowest device. Older devices can slow down the connection of newer ones to their own speed

Disconnect unused devices. Often, devices that have once connected to your Wi-Fi, will stay connected even when not in use. This causes unnecessary congestion. Switch off or disconnect any device that may be connected to your Wi-Fi whilst not in use.

Use an ethernet cable to connect any device that you can directly to the router. Not only will this provide a faster speed to that device but will allow faster speeds to other devices not directly plugged in.

Protect your Wi-Fi. Make sure to keep your Wi-Fi password safe this prevents unwanted users accessing your connection and slowing down your speeds

Find the right channel. If you want your connection to give you the best range then you need to understand the bands available to you. 2.4 Ghz is the most common and most older devices will operate on this band. It is busier than 5g as there are more connected devices and it provides better coverage than 5g as it travels through obstacles more effectively. 5 Ghz will provide faster speeds at closer range. Most newer devices will have a 5Ghz option. Some Wi-Fi channels can become congested by other users’ EGneighbours. Apps like Netspot and Wi-Fi Analyser can help identify the least congested channels. Rebooting can also help.

For more information see

Set up Wi-FI