Wi-Fi users urged to move their router away from one common household item

Wales Online

4 days ago

Wi-Fi users urged to move their router away from one common household item
If you're struggling with slow Wi-Fi speeds, then there might be one common household item to blame - and it could be sitting right next to your router
While many people may not fully grasp how Wi-Fi operates, understanding where to place your router for optimal internet speeds and performance is crucial.
(Image: Getty)
Wi-Fi users have been advised to reposition their routers away from a particular household appliance to enhance their internet speeds. Slow Wi-Fi can be a nuisance, particularly when it disrupts streaming or hampers a day of working from home.
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While many people may not fully grasp how Wi-Fi operates, understanding where to place your router for optimal internet speeds and performance is crucial. Experts have identified certain devices that could interfere with your Wi-Fi router's performance, and one of them might be sitting right next to yours. You can find five tips to speed up your Wi-Fi here.
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The location of your router can significantly affect your Wi-Fi performance, so knowing where to place it for uninterrupted movie and TV show viewing, as well as delay-free work and browsing, is essential, according to hyperoptic.com. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here .
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Any device that utilises Bluetooth, such as a Bluetooth speaker, can greatly impact your Wi-Fi's performance at home, the experts warned.
Bluetooth speakers are a common feature in contemporary British homes. Devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home speakers utilise Bluetooth, as do other less expensive brands of speakers that play music and radio.
Bluetooth devices and Wi-Fi routers operate on similar radio frequencies. When these devices are positioned too closely together in your home, they can disrupt your Wi-Fi speeds by sharing the same frequency, as explained by home technology experts at hyperoptic.com.
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Any device that utilises Bluetooth, such as a Bluetooth speaker, can greatly impact your Wi-Fi's performance at home, the experts warned.
(Image: Getty)
Brits frequently place certain household items in close proximity without realising the impact on their WiFi performance.
Before considering a switch of providers or shelling out for pricier broadband, experts suggest relocating your router to boost internet speeds at home.
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The Institute of Physics describes Bluetooth as a "wireless system for connecting devices together such as computers and mobile phones when they are close to each other".
Typically, one device, like a phone, acts as the "main unit" while another device, such as a Bluetooth speaker or wireless earphones, serves as the "peripheral". These gadgets pair using ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves.
Brits frequently place certain household items in close proximity without realising the impact on their WiFi performance.
(Image: Getty)
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Wi-Fi operates similarly, using frequencies to deliver a wireless internet connection for your mobile phone, computer, or smart TV.
Intriguingly, appliances like microwaves also utilise these frequencies and can disrupt your Wi-Fi's efficiency, so it's advisable to position your router away from this kitchen appliance to achieve optimal internet speeds.