It would be best if you had reliable Wi-Fi at home for those video calls. (Getty Images)
A gazillion New Yorkers are working and schooling from home during the pandemic, making dependable and zippy internet service seemingly impossible. If you’re having issues with connectivity, here’s a primer for improving the Wi-Fi signal in your apartment.
Signs You Need to Improve Your Wi-Fi Signal
While it may seem obvious, here are the issues you might be having with lousy Wi-Fi at home:
- Your internet is working, but with extreme lag. It’s impossible to watch Netflix, Prime, Hulu, or YouTube — not to mention attending Zoom meetings, without pixelation or load errors.
- Your internet is working in one part of the apartment (close to the router), but not in other areas.
- Your internet connection is not available on any device while at home.
How Do You Fix Spotty Wi-Fi? First, Try a Quick Diagnostics Test
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms just mentioned, take a deep breath and start running some diagnostics.
Assuming you have any semblance of internet connection, Google the following query, “internet speed test,” and then click, “run speed test.” It will quickly reveal if there is a serious issue taking place with your Wi-Fi. FYI, if you’re not able to do a Google search, then the problem is not related to your Wi-Fi signal. You’ll most likely need to reboot your internet connection. If you can do a speed test, then you’ll need to improve the Wi-Fi signal. Here’s how:
How to Improve Your Wi-Fi Signal in an Apartment
Check your router. It’s not the same as your modem. The latter connects you to the worldwide web, while the router lets all of your devices, wireless and wired access the internet. To do, first, confirm it’s on. Is it flashing all types of different lights? Sometimes a simple restart will do the trick. Success? If not, you might need to restart a couple of times.
If Your Problem Persists, Call Your Internet Provider
Whether you’re dealing with Verizon, Comcast, Spectrum, or RCN, they’re used to fielding calls related to poor internet connectivity. They’ll be able to run quick diagnostics from afar to see how your connection is faring and if there’s any indication about what’s causing the issue.
Sometimes there are isolated outages, which you have no control, and in other instances, it could be as simple as a quick software or hardware upgrade. Don’t hesitate to ask for a service credit, too. You’re paying good money for your internet service.
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Possible Hardware Fixes for Your Wi-Fi
If you’re seeing lag across different parts of your apartment, as opposed to complete outages, there are several hardware options that you may want to pursue. You can do these on your own or with the advice and guidance of your internet service provider.
You Might Need a New Router
How old is your router? If it’s several years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Technology is quickly evolving, and if you’re running on old hardware, chances are your internet connectivity is being held back from its full potential. Look online for a new router or talk to your internet service provider. Replacing this piece of equipment is usually the best fix.
Try Relocating Your Existing Router
Your current router may be located in a spot in your apartment that’s causing signal interference. A simple move may help you avoid this nuisance and enable the signal to flow freely throughout your residence. For example, a refrigerator or other appliance can disrupt the distribution of your signal.
The one challenge here may be that your router is fixed to the existing location with wires, and there may not be an easy alternative access point where it can simply be moved. This can be addressed using the cable wires to extend the router’s location. However, you may then have another unfortunate effect: A spaghetti mess of wires in your apartment.
No Luck? Buy a Repeater
A repeater is essentially a router that replicates your existing router’s signal to the new hardware. It’s connected to the original router via ethernet cable and will repeat your existing signal to an extended space. The downside is having a hard-wired cable passing through your apartment.
Extend Your Wi-Fi Range
Instead of a hard-wired repeater, you may want to opt for a range extender. These extend your router’s signal via Wi-Fi waves and don’t require hardwiring.
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