Have Wi-Fi Issues?
This article will take you through steps you can take to improve the performance of your Wi-Fi. The Wi-Fi connection can affect the speed you receive and the stability of your connection (i.e. if it briefly loses its connection frequently).
What affects Wi-Fi speeds & connection stability?
Many factors, including can influence wi-Fi;
1. Where the modem is in your home
2. Which modem do you have
3. Interference from electrical devices
4. The infrastructure in your home (materials, size)
5. The size of your home and the distance between the modem and your devices
6. Which W-iFi network you are connected to (2.4Ghz or 5Ghz)
7. Which Wi-Fi channel you are connected to
8. How many devices are connected to Wi-Fi simultaneously
There are many things you can do to improve the signal of your Wi-Fi and its speeds. Below are some things you can check.
1. Check modem placement
Devices will always get a better signal and speed the closer they are to your modem. If you use devices all across your home, it could be better to locate your modem in a central point.
It's always better to raise your modem off the ground where possible, as floor materials can interfere with signals, and therefore speeds.
2. Check appliances in your home
Electrical appliances that are turned on can cause interference that negatively impacts Wi-Fi signals. Anything from microwaves, driers or lamps, if close to your device or modem, can cause interference. You might consider turning off these devices when you are using Wi-Fi.
3. Make sure you are using the best Wi-Fi channel for your needs
You have 2 networks that you can choose from when using Wi-Fi (2.4Ghz & 5Ghz).
The 2.4Ghz channel is best used when devices are further away from the modem - a much greater distance is covered by the signal.
The 5Ghz channel has a stronger signal closer to the modem. If you normally use devices close to your modem, the 5Ghz network may improve your speeds over Wi-Fi.
4. Check the number of devices being used at the same time
The number of connected devices simultaneously using the internet will affect the amount of download speed each can achieve (e.g. 10 devices connected on a service receiving 80Mbps download speed, will have ~8Mbps each).
If you have a MyRepublic Wi-Fi Hub +, we recommend not connecting more than 10 devices at the same time, as this will reduce available speeds.
If you have a Halo modem, we recommend not connecting more than 20 devices at the same time, as this will reduce available speeds.
If you are using a modem of your own, please check the manufacturer's specifications to determine the recommended amount of devices that can be connected at the same time.
5. Does your Modem match your needs?
If you live in a large, multi-story home, have a big family, or like to connect a lot of devices at the same time, the Halo might be for you.
You can see its benefits here, or upgrade here.
6. Changing your Wi-Fi channel to reduce interference
If you're in a high-density location, like an apartment complex, there can be interference from other modems and devices close to you that can affect your speeds.
You can change the Wi-Fi channel to reduce that interference.
Here's how:
- On a device that's connected to your modem, open your web browser and go to http://192.168.1.1
- Log in with the default username; admin, and default password; admin. If you have changed these settings from the default, use your custom details instead.
- Click the Wireless panel on the dashboard.
- Scroll down to 'channel'. We recommend trying channel 6 or 11 initially, as these often yield the best results.
