How to improve your connection at home

🔧 Improving Internet on Your Laptop

1. Move Closer to the Router: Wi-Fi signal strength drops with distance and obstacles (like walls).
2. Use Ethernet (If Possible): A wired connection is faster and more stable than Wi-Fi.
3. Limit Background Activity: Close unused browser tabs, pause cloud backups, or turn off video calls when not needed.
4. Update Network Drivers: Check if your laptop’s Wi-Fi/network drivers are up to date.
5. Switch Wi-Fi Bands:
   • 2.4 GHz is better for distance.
   • 5 GHz is faster but has a shorter range.
6. Forget and Reconnect to Wi-Fi: Sometimes resets network hiccups.
7. Disable Power Saving for Wi-Fi Adapter:
   • On Windows: Go to Device Manager > Network Adapters > Power Management and uncheck “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power”.

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📡 Tweaking Your Router

1. Restart Your Router: Good ol’ reboot can fix temporary congestion or memory leaks.
2. Update Router Firmware: Check the manufacturer’s site or admin panel for updates.
3. Change Wi-Fi Channel: Your router may be on a crowded channel—use apps like WiFi Analyzer (Windows/Android) or AirPort Utility (iOS) to scan for better channels.
4. Positioning the Router:
   • Put it high up, in a central location.
   • Avoid hiding it in cupboards or behind TVs.
5. Limit Devices: Too many devices cause bandwidth strain. Disconnect unused ones.
6. Enable QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritize bandwidth for certain activities (e.g., video calls, gaming).

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📊 Testing Your ISP Speeds

1. Use Speed Test Websites:
   • Speedtest by Ookla
   • Fast.com
   • Google Speed Test
2. Run Tests at Different Times: Check if your speed dips during peak hours (evenings/weekends).
3. Test on Ethernet & Wi-Fi: Helps see if issues are with your ISP or your local setup.
4. Compare to Your Plan: If you’re paying for 100 Mbps and getting 30 Mbps regularly, time to raise a ticket.
5. Log Results: Keep a note of speed tests across several days to build a case if you need to contact your ISP.