Ask Our Expert

How do I boost my Wi-Fi signal?

Updated: Friday 20 January, 2012

Our Expert says...

Hi Kate,

You first need to find out what broadband speed you're getting. Do this by running a free speed test online. Try both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections, to see if you're losing speed by going wireless.

Your existing hardware

Most broadband providers now offer state-of-the-art equipment to customers signing up for their top speeds.

For example, the Home Hub 3 from BT broadband (www.BT.com) is the provider’s best ever router - and it's said to be worth over £90. It comes with the latest N technology for the most reliable broadband connection, and something called “Smart Wireless” which looks for the best Wi-Fi channel to ensure you always get a strong connection.

Cable provider Virgin Media (www.Virginmedia.com) offers a "Super Hub" that handles speeds in excess of
100Mb broadband. It also uses N technology and the latest encryption methods to keep your network secure.

If you've been with your provider a while and still use your original router, it might be worth asking for an upgrade.

Boosting your Wi-Fi connection

There are lots of tips and tricks you can try to improve your wireless broadband connection:

1. Swap your router for a more powerful model: Routers made by Linksys, Netgear and Belkin are known for being particularly reliable. You can also buy D-Link models specifically designed for long range and rural use. If you're buying a new router, make sure it's a "futureproof" N range model.


2. Buy a booster: A quality booster, like those offered by Hawking Technologies, can potentially increase your signal strength by 600%. Range amplifying technology increases the power of your connection to improve overall performance. They currently offer the most powerful Wi-Fi adapter on the market.


3. Repeat yourself: A wireless repeater will help push your broadband further. They work by bouncing your signal between the router, the repeater and your computer, extending the reach of your connection.


4. Pick your position: Where you position your router can have a massive impact on signal strength. The more things standing between the router and computer, the harder your signal has to work. High spots like on top of a bookshelf work well because they eliminate most obstacles.


5. Replace your antenna: Replacing the antenna on your router can boost your signal by sending it further, with an omni-directional hi-gain model - or simply focusing it in one direction. Make sure you can change the aerial on your router before you buy a new one - some have a permanent built-in antenna.


6. Change the channel: Wireless routers can broadcast across a number of different channels. Changing your channel can prevent interference with other wireless signals and improve your Wi-Fi connection. You can change this in the online settings for your router.


7. Go back to wires: If you're really struggling to get good wireless, then it might be better to use an Ethernet cable to get online. Data travels faster through wires, so you should get a faster, more reliable connection this way.


8. Adapt your connection: Power-line adapters also know as homeplugs send data over existing power lines in the home, which means there's no need for messy wires or expensive in-wall ethernet cables. These adaptors allows you to connect to your router from anywhere in your house, by plugging an adapter into your computer and a nearby power supply.

Video: How to boost your Wi-Fi signal

Switch broadband provider

If you've got a slow broadband connection, then your Wi-Fi signal won’t be strong either. Luckily, switching broadband provider can help. If you live in a cable area, Virgin Media might be your best bet for a superfast connection. However, BT is also rolling out a fibre optic UK network, offering speeds of up to 40Mb broadband.

Even if you don't sign up for a superfast broadband package, you may still be able to boost your speed by switching to a different supplier. You might consider O2 broadband (www.O2.co.uk) or BE broadband (www.Bethere.co.uk), which also provide a fast and reliable option.

Please note it is always important to check that any booster you purchase complies with Ofcom's signal boosting guidelines.

Ask us a question

If you have a general switching or provider query, please email us at OurExpert@broadbandchoices.co.uk

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