When internet speed slows down, a user might think that the solution to their problem always lies in subscribing to a faster package, but the quality of the Wi-Fi connection does not depend on the package speed alone. The location of the router, the obstacles surrounding it, and interference with other devices are all factors that can affect the signal strength and connection speed that reaches the phone or computer.
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Microsoft recommends placing the router in a central location, away from the ground, walls, and metal objects, while minimizing sources of interference.
A man is carefully mounting a wireless router onto a wall in a sleek and modern interior space of the home
1. Place the router on the ground
Placing the router on the floor is a common mistake, as the floor, walls, and furniture can impede signal propagation. Microsoft recommends raising the device off the floor and placing it in a relatively high location, while the UK communications regulator (Ofcom) indicates that placing the router centrally on a shelf, rather than on the floor, helps reduce signal loss. Therefore, it is preferable to place it on a shelf or a high, open surface, avoiding placing it inside a closed piece of furniture.
2. Place it in a corner of the house or near an exterior wall.
Placing the router next to an internet outlet or in a corner of the house may seem like the easiest option, but it is not the best for coverage. The device sends the signal in multiple directions, so placing it near an exterior wall may result in part of the signal being sent outside the house instead of covering the interior rooms.
Microsoft and Ofcom advise choosing a location that is as central as possible, while TP-Link explains that placing the router near the center of the house helps distribute the signal more evenly.
3. Hide it behind the television or inside a cabinet
Hiding the router inside a cabinet or behind the television may keep the house looking tidy, but it weakens coverage. Walls, furniture, and metal objects obstruct the signal, and closed cabinets hinder its spread and limit the device's ventilation.
TP-Link recommends keeping the router in an open area and away from obstructions, and warns against placing it behind the television or inside cabinets.
4. Place it near the microwave and electronic devices.
Wi-Fi operates on different frequency bands, including 2.4 GHz, a band also used by microwave ovens and some other wireless devices, which may cause interference that affects the quality of the connection when these devices are in operation.
Microsoft explains that microwaves and cordless phones can cause temporary interference with 2.4 GHz networks, while TP-Link recommends keeping the router away from microwave ovens and similar electronic devices.
5. Place it near minerals and water.
Some materials can weaken or reverse the signal, so it is not advisable to place the router near large metal objects, or in a place where there are many obstacles between it and the devices. Ofcom specifically mentions that water, metals, and glass can impede the Wi-Fi signal, and recommends keeping the router away from things like heating appliances and large fish tanks.
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