Optimize your wireless speed

Many factors impact your Wi-Fi speed, including the number of devices using your Internet connection, the location of your router, and more. How well your Wi-Fi performs depends on a variety of factors, so keep these tips in mind when troubleshooting slower speeds.  While a wired connection will always give you the fastest connection, these tips can help you maximize your Wi-Fi connection speed.  

Location Matters Certain types of walls, furnaces, and even appliances can interfere with your wireless signal. For the best Wi-Fi performance, place your router close to the devices you use most often and minimize barriers between the router and your devices. Place your router in the open, away from crowded spaces or windows, and keep your router off the floor.

Devices Vary WiFi connection speeds are also subject to limitation of WiFi network protocols and the capability of the device on the network. WOW! Whole-Home WiFi equipment can support a maximum speed of up to 900Mbps. 1.2 Gig speeds may require a direct ethernet connection (and supported equipment) to ensure maximum internet speed. 

Bandwidth is Shared Each device on your network shares bandwidth. The more devices, the more your Wi-Fi speed is divided up and the slower the speed for each device. For best results, check how many users and devices are on your network and what they are doing. And, avoid running programs in the background that use up bandwidth. 

• Close browsers and programs you aren’t using. 

• Clear your cookies. 

• Turn off idle Wi-Fi connected devices (e.g., when you’re not using your phone to connect with the Internet, turn off the Wi-Fi connection on the phone to free up bandwidth.) 

• Disable add-ons and background programs when not in use. 

• Activities that use the largest amount of bandwidth are: 

• Streaming video 

• Streaming music 

• Online gaming 

Keep Router Software Current Your router may need a software upgrade from time to time, so routine rebooting will keep it up to date. You can check to see if your router is running the latest software version by referring to the manufacturer’s website for more information. 

Personal Router Tips If you choose to use your personal Wi-Fi router, make sure it’s up-to-date and from a trusted manufacturer. This is extremely important for protecting your identity and ensuring a quality home network. If you have questions or doubts, please give us a call and we can advise you about WOW! trusted equipment.