Boosting Wifi Service In A Home Network
There are few things as frustrating as slow Internet access. If your WiFi Internet access is slow or choppy, it could be that there's something wrong with the way your wireless connectivity is setup. Here are a few of the things you should try before shopping for a new service provider.
Make Sure the Network Is Secured
WiFi networks have to be properly password protected -- if they aren't, then multiple individuals could be on your network right now. Not only will this consume your bandwidth and make your connections slower, but it will also expose you to potential security risks. An open WiFi network is a beacon to cyber criminals, who may commit crimes over your Internet connection or simply use it to steal your data.
Upgrade Your Network Cards or Adapters
Regardless of how fast your router and connection speed is, your network card or adapter will end up creating a bottleneck if it is too slow. Check the specifications of your network card or adapter, paying special attention to the speeds that it supports. If you're getting 150 megabytes per second and your card supports only 150 megabytes per second, it's very likely that you would need to upgrade your card to see any improvement in performance.
Purchase a New Router
Routers are generally considered to be defunct after a few years, as Internet speeds have been steadily increasing. If your router was purchased three or four years ago, you may want to consider the possibility of purchasing a new router entirely. In addition to getting a new router, you should also make sure that the router is positioned correctly -- in an open area space that is very close to the devices using it.
Update the Router's Firmware
If you have an older router and aren't interested in purchasing a new one, you may still be able to boost its functionality. Older routers may not be accustomed to the current speeds of data. But there's a way to update a router's performance: updating the firmware. The firmware of a router can be accessed by logging into the router itself, which is usually done through the web. The router's manual will detail exactly how. Once in the router, you can choose to update the firmware. This will download updates from the router's manufacturer.
Sometimes, of course, the Internet service that you are using is simply slow. If your speed remains sluggish, you may want to call your ISP and troubleshoot the connectivity with them. They may find that there's an issue between your house and the data center. For assistance, talk to a professional like Tech Fixing Center LLC.