While much more convenient than a wired connection, a WiFi network also has a number of additional precautions to take if you want to set up a good wireless connection . Sometimes we make certain mistakes that will end up hindering the browsing experience, so take note and correct what you may be doing wrong.
These are five of the most common errors in a home wireless network , so we tell you how to correct them so that your WiFi flies.
Misplace the router
It is one of the aspects that we emphasize the most on our site, but it is that a good placement of the router can save us a lot of headaches regarding the performance of our wireless connection.
Avoid placing it near other electrical devices that may cause interference, place it in a central area of the house and, if possible, in a high place. Avoid being close to windows or that its waves have to penetrate through materials that are not very conductive . Barriers such as plaster, cement, stone, and brick walls are also an obstacle for WiFi to operate optimally in small spaces.
Not choosing the correct WiFi band
For some time now, when connecting to a WiFi network (unless it’s a fairly old or outdated router that doesn’t even have the WiFi 4 version, which is hard to believe nowadays), we’ll be able to choose between at least one network 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless, and choosing the right one is key to enjoying the best connection .
2.4 GHz Wi-Fi has more interference because it has overlapping channels, but it still has a longer range because it operates on a longer frequency. In return, you have a lower connection speed. In the case of 5 GHz, we have channels that do not overlap with each other, which offer more speed by operating on shorter frequencies and being able to use several channels at the same time, but it has a shorter range because its wavelength is shorter, in addition there is hardly any external interference beyond that of other WiFi networks that operate on those frequencies.
Taking this into account, depending on each situation we would have to choose the most appropriate. The first is ideal the further we get from the router and lose range, while 5 GHz will always be the fastest , although we will get it at a shorter distance from the router.
Not protecting your wireless connection
One of the aspects that we sometimes leave in the background thinking that the operator will already give us the necessary protection is security. Even if we live in an area apparently free of freeloading neighbors, it is essential to protect our network to prevent unauthorized access from having a negative effect on our browsing experience, as well as exposing sensitive data.
In addition, in addition to choosing a good WiFi password , it being essential to change those that come by default when the technician installs the router, we should protect it with the best possible encryption at all times, preferably with the latest WPA-3, as well as having the firmware of the router updated.
Maintenance of network devices
As with any element, good maintenance can save us later troubles. Frequently check the connected devices and verify that they have no problems and their configuration is correct.
In addition, you can invest from time to time in something that improves the connection, such as updating the WiFi network card for a more modern one, changing the operator’s router, etc. Making sure that everything is fine at the hardware level is key.
Misuse of WiFi repeaters
Especially if we have started making the first mistake and we place the router in a position that is not very central to the house, it is possible that the coverage we need does not arrive and so we choose to use wireless repeaters .
However, although it can fulfill its function of extending coverage, this does not necessarily mean that it will improve the signal. In fact, sometimes we could install any repeater that we find cheap and what it will do is worsen the signal instead of improving it . So consider all the options they have to amplify your WiFi signal or increase its range, but do not choose the first thing that comes to mind or the cheapest.
