Slow Wi-Fi? What really helps
Video calls that freeze and rooms without signal are rarely the internet provider’s fault. Simple checks you can do yourself, and when mesh Wi-Fi or a new router is worth it.
Photo: Compare Fibre / Unsplash
Video calls freeze, the TV buffers, and in the bedroom there is no signal at all. Before you change your internet subscription, check the Wi-Fi: very often the internet is fast, but the Wi-Fi does not bring it to every room.
First: internet or Wi-Fi?
Run a speed test on a computer connected to the router with a cable, then on your phone next to the router, then in the room where it is slow. If the speed is good with the cable but poor in the room, the problem is the Wi-Fi, not the internet.
Simple things you can do yourself
- Place the router well: central, high up and in the open, not in a cupboard, behind the TV or in the basement.
- Restart and update: restart the router and install updates; many routers update themselves only if you allow it.
- Use the right band: 5 GHz (or 6 GHz on newer devices) is faster but reaches less far; 2.4 GHz reaches further but is slower and often crowded.
- Use a cable where possible: a desk computer or TV on a network cable relieves the Wi-Fi for everyone else.
- Check old devices: a very old laptop or repeater can slow down the network.
When new devices are worth it
- Mesh Wi-Fi: several units that work as one network. The best solution for houses, several floors or thick walls.
- Access points: connected by cable, ideal for offices and larger buildings.
- A new router: if yours is many years old or does not support current Wi-Fi standards.
- Repeaters: cheap, but often halve the speed; mesh is usually the better choice.
Do not forget security
Use a strong Wi-Fi password, change the router’s admin password, and set up a separate guest network for visitors and smart home devices.
If it is still slow, we measure where the Wi-Fi is weak and recommend the setup that fits your rooms, on site in the region or with advice remotely.
