Even if you live in an area with great internet coverage, there may be times where it just isn’t enough, that’s at least what internet coverage statistics tell us. Yet, if you can’t get online to check email or do homework, then what’s the point of having the internet? Fortunately, you have plenty of ways to boost your internet coverage so that you can get connected no matter where you are or what situation you find yourself in. Here are five different ways to boost your internet coverage and make sure that nothing gets in the way of being connected.
5 Ways to Boost Your Internet Coverage
1) Add a Wi-Fi booster
A wireless internet signal can be disrupted at a number of different points along its journey from router to devices. A Wi-Fi booster is just what it sounds like: a device that boosts your existing Wi-Fi signal, making sure it reaches every corner of your home. To maximise your coverage and bandwidth, place a Wi-Fi booster in any rooms where you may have dead spots or where you tend to use more data (i.e., multiple users streaming Netflix and playing online games). This step won’t increase speed—it simply ensures that what speed you do have will be stable throughout your house.
2) Upgrade your router
A weak or outdated router can act as a bottleneck and cause your Wi-Fi signal to falter. If you think your wireless signal is slow, try replacing it with a newer router—it's one of the easiest fixes you can make. Look for routers that advertise 802.11ac or 802.11n; these are high-speed protocols that allow for better streaming, less buffering, and higher download speeds overall. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions on how best to set up your new router.
3) Test your devices
The first thing you need to do is test all of your devices and make sure they can connect to your preferred network. Older, battery-powered devices may not be able to keep up with faster speeds. If a device isn’t going online, start by resetting it and making sure it’s fully charged. You should also check that your modem or router is working properly—this involves checking connections at both ends (the cable and wireless signal) are firmly connected, as well as checking for signs of interference or damage. If you have an extender or booster installed (or plan on using one), be sure it’s plugged in and turned on before attempting another connection test.
4) Adjust your home for better reception
Internet connectivity is essential for modern life, and even more so when you want to be productive from home. The first step in boosting your coverage is physical location. You’ll want to put your router in a central place where it can reach all of your workstations—if you have more than one—with ease. Make sure there are no unnecessary objects between your computer and router; if possible, install it at roughly eye level. A powerful antenna on your router will help boost signal strength. If you still feel that your connection is too slow, consider calling in an expert; some service providers will send someone out for free if they can’t solve the problem remotely.
5) Improve your speeds with mesh networks
With more and more devices connecting to your home Wi-Fi, it’s only natural that you’re seeing increased lag or slower speeds. While you could go out and buy a new router for every room of your house, there are other ways to improve your wireless network. Wireless mesh networks operate as a single wireless unit, allowing you to place multiple routers in different rooms so all of them have access to an internet connection. The most common type of mesh network is a three-piece setup that includes one router serving as a primary connection for all devices connected through Wi-Fi, another dedicated router wired into your modem, and one final piece connecting these two pieces via Ethernet cable.
Disclaimer: No Asian Age journalist was involved in creating this content. The group also takes no responsibility for this content.
