8 tips to speed up Wi-Fi in the house during Tet

1. Identify the source of the problem

Users should check the quality of both wired and wireless networks. Photo: Digital Trends .

The first thing to do is determine the cause of the Wi-Fi quality. A simple test can be done by plugging the cable that connects the computer to the router, and then checking on speedtest.net . If the transmission speed is still as committed by the network operator, users should check the signal for Wi-Fi connection through a device located near the hotspot.

2. Change the router location

The router is located in a position with many obstacles around it, which affects the connection quality. Photo: Cnet .

Changing the router location is one way to improve the quality of indoor Wi-Fi. Basically, routers are designed to transmit signals in a radial pattern. Most families install routers near the outlet, but it is more logical if users move the transmitter in the middle of the room that needs good Wi-Fi signal.

3. Change the wireless channel

Users can determine the most suitable band for indoor Wi-Fi through the Wi-Fi Analyzer application. Photo: PC World .

Most routers are now in the dual-band , transmitting and receiving data via the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. The 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi signal bands are divided into several smaller bands, also known as wireless channels. However, household electronics such as portable speakers, microwaves, etc. can interfere with Wi-Fi. Moreover, if the home is in a densely populated area or has many Wi-Fi access points, this situation is becoming more common.

To change the wireless channel, users need to access the settings page via the IP address printed below the router. If you forget your login information , you can contact the network provider for a new license. Most routers have low-noise channel switching mode automatically. Also, note the channels that are supposed to be less prone to signal overlap for the 2.4 Ghz network of one, six, nine and 11.

4. Update the router’s software

Software updates help make the router more efficient. Photo: TP-Link .

In fact, many people forget to upgrade their router’s firmware since installation. This process is very important, as manufacturers often combine overall performance improvement and security fixes inside updates. To upgrade the router’s software, users access the setup page (as mentioned above). In addition, some high-end routers support users to update via smartphone applications.

5. Use a Wi-Fi tuner

Wi-Fi tuners are a popular solution to improve Wi-Fi quality due to the relatively low cost of this device. Photo: Xiaomi .

Wi-Fi actuator (Wi-Fi repeater) is a cheap additional equipment to expand coverage in the home. This type has a simple design and working principle, users only need to plug in and use. However, the effectiveness of the Wi-Fi tuner also depends on the installation location. For example, if the Wi-Fi tuner is located in a bad place, the signal will be flickering and unstable. Experts recommend that users install a Wi-Fi router only 7 to 10 meters from the main router, or where a smartphone captures three waves.

6. Use a Powerline device

Powerline is the ideal solution to expand Wi-Fi coverage, but depends on indoor wiring quality. Photo: Tenda .

Powerline is a technology that transmits Wi-Fi through an indoor electrical network. Each Powerline set consists of two terminals plugged into a power source, the first being connected to a router. Despite the advantage of being easy to use, remote signal transmission and not affected by obstacles such as walls, the connection speed depends on the quality of your home wiring.

7. Using the Mesh Wi-Fi system

A Wi-Fi Mesh system consists of multiple stations, which helps limit blind spots and maintain continuous connectivity when users move. Photo: TP-Link .

Mesh Wi-Fi is an emerging technology recently used by many users for home Wi-Fi networks. Each Wi-Fi Mesh set consists of two or more independent transmitters, or stations or nodes, with identical designs. A special feature is that they communicate continuously with each other across the same frequency range to both expand coverage, while ensuring a stable transmission speed in every position of the house. The installation and operation is also relatively simple, through the smartphone application.

However, the cost is the biggest barrier between users and the Wi-Fi Mesh system. A standard set with 3 nodes from a well-known manufacturer is about 10 million dong, while a Chinese manufacturer’s product also costs at least 3 million dong.

8. Use a third party router

A set of Mesh Wi-Fi certified Wi-Fi 6 of Netgear costs more than 10 million. Photo: Tech Spot .

Carrier bundled routers are much better than they were a few years ago, but third-party routers are always better quality. Routers are often advertised based on theoretical maximum speeds such as AC1500 or AC1900. In particular, AC stands for Wi-Fi 802.11ac (or Wi-Fi 5) high speed and allows multi-threaded data transmission through multiple antennas to one or more devices at the same time. The number behind the speed represents up to 1,500 Mbps and 1,900 Mbps. Currently, manufacturers have introduced a number of high-end 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) standard models such as Asus RT-AX88U. However, the cost of this type of device is still high and the support equipment is quite limited.