Latest news with #homeOffice
CNET
25-05-2025
- CNET
I Work 100% Remotely: Here's How I Keep My Internet Running Perfectly All Day Long
Working remotely comes with its perks, but a slow Wi-Fi connection isn't one of them. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost your connection while trying to download or upload documents, your Wi-Fi may be to blame. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping or rashly throw out your router, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own. Before I started working remotely in my home office, I took these steps to make sure my Wi-Fi wouldn't drop out while I was uploading documents or joining a call, and I've rarely experienced any outages or lag. This is our comprehensive guide to boosting your remote work internet setup. It includes everything you need to know to improve your network (but were too afraid to ask). 1. Test your internet connection The first step to figuring out what's wrong with your internet is running a simple speed test. Speed tests are an easy (free!) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. Locating local internet providers 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably not getting enough speed from your ISP. It might be time for a speed-tier upgrade or you may be experiencing some network congestion and other factors beyond your provider's control. So, how much speed does remote work require? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. I work 100% remotely and at any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps, which works perfectly for me. 2. Pick a better internet plan When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" If you're an average internet user, you likely won't notice the difference between a 1,000Mbps plan and a 300Mbps plan. That said, there are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. Upload speeds are important While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet typically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet. Latency Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. 3. Optimize your router placement Routers and cables aren't the prettiest tech, and they tend to clutter up space, so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally, as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls, or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. My router is located just near my desk, on a shelf, where I can take full advantage of those Wi-Fi frequency bands. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or you rent from your ISP, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. 4. Use an Ethernet connection The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. 5. Learn how to switch Wi-Fi frequency bands Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. 6. Use a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Other considerations for remote work Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Use a VPN Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. Utilize IT or tech support If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Invest in an ergonomic work setup Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought this one from Amazon for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using cable covers or ties is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. Bottom line You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
The Guardian
24-05-2025
- General
- The Guardian
Tim Dowling: let my tortoise's humiliating mishap be a lesson to him
After an hour's work on a hot morning I leave my office shed and return to the kitchen for a coffee. Halfway there I find the tortoise lying on his back on the path. He can't have been there for more than an hour, as he wasn't there when I came out. 'What happened to you?' I say, setting him on his feet. But it's pretty obvious what happened: he tried to exit the garden bed by climbing over the border of diagonally laid bricks and overbalanced. It's an obstacle he surmounts without difficulty between five and 10 times a day in the warmer months, but occasionally – perhaps once every four years – he puts a foot wrong. So far, I have always been there to turn him back over. The mishap comes less than a week after he made his first serious escape bid in about a decade, slipping out through the open side door and getting all the way across the street before some estate agents found him. It's easy to think of the tortoise as being self-regulating and largely content, when in truth he is simultaneously vulnerable and wily – always probing the garden's perimeter for security weaknesses. 'Let this be a reminder of how poorly you'd fare out there,' I say, pointing towards the road. Then I walk away, because the tortoise always gives the impression of preferring to be left alone with his humiliation. In the kitchen I find the oldest one drinking a large coffee and staring at his laptop. He works from home on certain unspecified days of the week, this apparently being one of them. 'Hey,' I say. He watches as I go to the coffee machine, empty out the old grounds and fetch myself a cup. 'There's no milk,' he says. 'Ugh,' I say. 'Now I have to put on shoes.' Stomping to the shops, I think about the sudden spike in our milk consumption. The oldest one has returned home indefinitely. Because of this his brothers drop by more often, generally without warning. Supper plans get changed, beers are opened and the evening is suddenly dominated by frankly insane arguments about the middle ages. It's not that I don't enjoy the sound of a house filled with merry laughter and clinking glasses, it's just that I've got used to having all that by prior appointment only. The shop is out of two-litre containers of milk, so I buy two one-litre containers. I have a strong urge to write my name on one of them. In the afternoon the day turns hotter still. The tortoise sits outside my office door in the shade of a rosemary bush, perhaps imagining for a moment that he's back home in Greece – a place, I would like to remind him, where I've seen lots of empty, bleached, upside down tortoise shells lying around. The sky turns hazy and the air grows close, as if presaging a coming storm. But then the sun comes out again. I start thinking about supper, but this raises a question I can't answer: how many will we be? The tortoise has pushed himself deeper into the rosemary, which is where he'll spend the night. I head to the house to assess the situation. My wife and I arrive in the kitchen at the same moment, from opposite directions. 'What are you doing in here?' she says. 'Never mind that,' I say. 'What are you doing in here?' There is a thoughtful pause. 'Can't remember,' she says. A key turns in the front door lock, and the middle one walks in. His hair is matted to his head, his sleeves are dripping on to the floor, and his shoes squelch as he walks. 'You're soaking wet!' my wife says. 'I just got caught in the worst downpour I've ever seen,' he says. 'But it hasn't rained here at all,' I say. 'Hail, lightning, flash floods, everything,' he says. 'It was crazy.' 'Take everything off and put it in the dryer,' my wife says. 'Not a drop,' I say, 'I was going to water the garden later.' The oldest one walks in. 'What happened to you?' he says. 'Do you want to stay to supper?' my wife says. 'Yeah,' the middle one says, a puddle forming under him. 'So that's four,' I say. 'No, I'm going out,' the oldest one says. As I stare into the fridge it occurs to me that the more often people are here, the more likely it is someone will find me when I end up on my back on the garden path.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Yahoo
Working Remotely? Boost Your Wi-Fi With These 6 Simple Steps
Working remotely comes with its perks but a slow Wi-Fi connection isn't one of them. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost connection while trying to download or upload" target="_self documents, your Wi-Fi may be to blame. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more" target="_self for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping" target="_self or rashly throw out your router" target="_self, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own. This is our comprehensive guide to boosting your remote work internet setup. It includes everything you need to know to improve your network (but were too afraid to ask). The first step to figuring out what's wrong with your internet is running a simple speed test" target="_self. Speed tests are an easy (free!) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert" target="_self, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi" target="_self. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably not getting enough speed from your ISP. It might be time for a speed-tier upgrade or you may be experiencing some network congestion and other factors beyond your provider's control. So, how much speed does remote work require" target="_self? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. I work 100% remotely and at any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps, which works perfectly for me. When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" If you're an average internet user, you likely won't notice the difference between a 1,000Mbps plan and a 300Mbps plan. That said, there are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too" target="_self. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet " target="_selftypically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet" target="_self. Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency" target="_self of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. Routers and cables are not the prettiest tech and tend to clutter up space so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or rent from your ISP" target="_self, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi" target="_self and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology" target="_self supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E" target="_self or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders" target="_self or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using or is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan" target="_self to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
CNET
11-05-2025
- CNET
Working Remotely? Boost Your Wi-Fi With These 6 Simple Steps
Working remotely comes with its perks but a slow Wi-Fi connection isn't one of them. If you've ever struggled to get through a Zoom call or lost connection while trying to download or upload documents, your Wi-Fi may be to blame. Internet is already expensive. In fact, a recent CNET survey notes that adults are paying roughly $195 more for internet than they did last year. Before you go down the rabbit hole of home internet shopping or rashly throw out your router, there are a few easy and low-cost steps you can take to diagnose the issue and optimize your Wi-Fi system on your own. This is our comprehensive guide to boosting your remote work internet setup. It includes everything you need to know to improve your network (but were too afraid to ask). 1. Test your internet connection The first step to figuring out what's wrong with your internet is running a simple speed test. Speed tests are an easy (free!) way to diagnose your internet woes and get a sense of where -- and when -- your internet is slowest. Running a speed test in your office at different times of the day can give you a sense of whether network congestion is playing a role in slowing you down or if you need to rethink where you're placing your router. Joe Supan, CNET's router expert, recommends starting with an Ethernet cable test to determine whether your router is at fault or it's an internet connection issue. Locating local internet providers 'If you plug a device into the router directly with an Ethernet cable and you're getting internet just fine through that, then I would say it's a router issue and you can eliminate the provider,' said Supan. Ethernet is a direct, wired connection, so your speeds should be much faster than with Wi-Fi. If you're still noticing slow speeds with an Ethernet connection, you're probably not getting enough speed from your ISP. It might be time for a speed-tier upgrade or you may be experiencing some network congestion and other factors beyond your provider's control. So, how much speed does remote work require? Working remotely with minimal interruptions requires at least 100 megabits per second in download speed and preferably 30Mbps in upload speed. You likely don't need much more than that unless you have multiple devices or other internet users working in the same space. An internet connection of 300Mbps down should technically be plenty for 10 to 15 devices online simultaneously. Online meetings will be the most bandwidth-heavy activity for most remote workers, unless your work requires video editing or uploading content. I work 100% remotely and at any given time during the work day, at least three devices are online simultaneously. AT&T's cheapest internet tier starts at $55 monthly for 300Mbps, which works perfectly for me. 2. Pick a better internet plan When we refer to internet plans, we typically refer to download speeds or the rate at which information is downloaded from the internet. But a lot goes into a reliable internet connection beyond fast download speeds. Your internet connection woes may stem from a lackluster internet plan -- not just a slow speed tier. "There's kind of a misconception about speed with home internet shopping," said Supan, referring to the tendency to upgrade to the next fastest speed tier to avoid Wi-Fi troubles. "People expect [the internet plan] to be faster, but it's really just, does it work or not?" If you're an average internet user, you likely won't notice the difference between a 1,000Mbps plan and a 300Mbps plan. That said, there are other considerations to keep in mind when looking for internet that can keep up with your remote work needs beyond download speeds. Upload speeds are important While download speeds are what ISPs typically advertise and what we usually refer to when discussing a plan's speeds, upload speeds play an important role, too. As a remote worker, you'll likely use upload speeds more than the average internet user. We need a good upload speed for Zoom, uploading videos and presenting, among other things. If your job centers around video editing, posting to social media and taking constant video calls, you'll need reliable upload speeds to do so without lag or interruption. Cable internet typically tops out at 20Mbps to 35Mbps in upload speed, and while that may be plenty if you're the only remote worker (and heavy internet user) in your house, you'll notice less interruption with symmetrical download and upload speeds like what you'd get from fiber internet. Latency Upload speeds certainly play a role in determining the latency of your internet connection but it's worth checking the advertised latency of your internet plan. Low latency isn't just optimal for gaming online without interruption; it's also essential for downloading and uploading files quickly, presenting online or taking video calls smoothly. Most fiber internet providers offer low latency but some cable providers, like Xfinity, have started offering ultra-low-lag internet, too. 3. Optimize your router placement Routers and cables are not the prettiest tech and tend to clutter up space so I understand the impulse to hide them. Unfortunately, your router requires a high vantage point to work optimally as well as placement in an area not crowded by heavy furniture, walls or appliances like your TV. To make the best use of your Wi-Fi system, place your router close to your working space, preferably high up off the floor on a shelf. It's also worth checking that your internet equipment is updated regularly to keep the system running smoothly and flush out any bugs. According to Supan, though some routers update firmware regularly, others don't. You may have to go to your router's app or settings to make sure. If you haven't upgraded your router for a while or rent from your ISP, it may be time to consider investing in your own router that can support the latest Wi-Fi technology. Upgrading to a new model can vastly improve the latency and throughput to your PC -- just take it from Supan, who invested in a TP-Link router and immediately saw boosted upload speeds and better overall performance. 4. Use an Ethernet connection The next best step to consistently getting the fastest internet speeds possible during the work day is to use an Ethernet connection. Ethernet is demonstrably more reliable and faster than Wi-Fi and connecting directly to your router ensures minimal interference and low latency. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to set up. As long as your device has an Ethernet port or you have a USB to Ethernet adapter, all you'll have to do is plug the cable into your modem or router and into your PC. If you don't connect to the internet automatically, you can go to network settings on your Mac or PC and turn it on. 5. Learn how to switch Wi-Fi frequency bands Switching between your router's Wi-Fi channels is an easy way to boost throughput and lower latency, if you're able to do so. Most routers come equipped with the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and the latest Wi-Fi technology supports an additional 6GHz band. In general, the 2.4GHz band is the most used (and subject to network congestion) as it has a long range, albeit slower speed potential. The 5GHz range is shorter but it offers a faster speed potential. If you're in the same room as your router, you'll get the most benefit from switching to the 5GHz band. The 6GHz band is only available with Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 technology, and you'll need a compatible device to use the band, but it boasts the highest speed potential of the Wi-Fi bands (as well as the shortest range). To switch bands, you can go to your router's configuration page by typing your router's IP address into a web browser and going to your router's wireless settings page. Note that if you rent a router from your ISP, like I do, you may not be able to switch channels. 6. Use a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network If you can't update your Wi-Fi setup or move your router to your workspace, you should consider investing in Wi-Fi extenders or a mesh Wi-Fi system. Both are helpful for boosting speeds in rooms that your router can't reach, although they have slightly different performance capabilities. If you're trying to extend coverage in just one room, like your office, a W-Fi extender is a great option. If you're trying to improve coverage in the whole house, a mesh router network is a much better option. Debbie Fitzgerald, a technologist and director at CableLabs, advises investing in a good router before spending on Wi-Fi extenders. 'Don't go overboard with Wi-Fi extenders in your house,' Fitzgerald told CNET. 'There have been a number of studies that show you really only need perhaps one, if any at all, and if you add more … it can actually increase latency.' Other considerations for remote work Beyond improving your internet connection, there are a few other steps you can take to make sure your network is secure and your workspace is productive. Use a VPN Anytime you use a VPN, you'll slow the speeds coming to your device. However, VPNs are essential to home network security, especially if you like to travel between co-working spaces or coffee shops where you're using public networks. Utilize IT or tech support If you're working remotely for a company with an IT department, go ahead and save their email and contact information. IT is an invaluable resource for boosting network security and troubleshooting connectivity problems. If you don't have access to an IT department, your ISP or router manufacturing company will have a customer support option that you can use free. Invest in an ergonomic work setup Technically, this tip isn't about your internet connection. But if you're working from home (and you spend 8 hours a day at your computer like I do), I can't stress enough the importance of a productive, ergonomic work setup. You don't have to invest hundreds of dollars in fancy equipment. If you're clever, a few tech essentials can make your life easier and correct your posture. An ergonomic office chair makes such a difference in lumbar support and comfort. I bought this one from Amazon for a decent price, and I've already noticed the difference. If you're using an Ethernet connection, multiple monitors, and you're near your router, there's likely a mass of cords beneath your desk. Using cable covers or ties is an easy way to keep your office neat and hide cord clutter. Plus, they're pretty cheap. Bottom line You can take multiple low-cost and stress-free steps to boost your Wi-Fi and internet connection without upgrading to a faster speed tier. If you're working primarily at home, you'll need a dependable internet connection to get through the day but you don't need to break the bank or even use a multi-gigabit plan to do so. After all, a good internet connection is one you don't even notice.
BreakingNews.ie
11-05-2025
- Business
- BreakingNews.ie
Sterne's Mill: Six bed Co Wicklow house on sale for €1m
Sterne's Mill is a property that was originally a cut-stone mill and has been comprehensively renovated and maintained over the years. Extending to 352 square metres, the home sits on around 2.9 acres of woodland and landscaped grounds, bordered by a mill race fed by the Annamoe River in Co Wicklow. Advertisement It enjoys complete privacy due to mature trees and natural hedging. The centrepiece of the home is a drawing room featuring vaulted ceilings, an open fireplace, and doors opening to a raised terrace with views of the mill race. To the front of the house is a living room with a wood-burning stove. A country-style kitchen is fitted with painted timber units and granite countertops, and adjacent to the kitchen is a pantry, while a linked dining area connects the main living spaces and provides access to both the front and rear gardens. Advertisement The ground floor also includes a utility room, a bedroom, a home office, a guest WC and a shower room. On the upper level of the main house, there are three bedrooms, two of which feature en suite bathrooms and walk-in dressing rooms. In addition to the main accommodation, there is a separate guest suite comprising a living area, bedroom, and bathroom, with its own private entrance and views over the mill race. At the rear of the house, the mill race has been integrated into the landscape design, bordered by a spacious decking area accessed from the drawing room. Advertisement A wooden bridge leads across the water to a plethora of woodland walks which offer views of the Annamoe River. The property includes a garage, a workshop and a barn in addition to the main house, which all offer potential for conversion subject to the necessary permissions. The property is located to Roundwood, which offers popular dining options, and gives easy access to Glendalough, the Wicklow Mountains, and Lough Tay for hiking, cycling, and outdoor pursuits. Local amenities include golf in Roundwood, tennis and sailing in Greystones, and excellent transport links to Dublin via regular bus services and the N11 motorway. The house has a BER rating of D2, has six bedrooms, four bathrooms and is on sale for €1 million. To read more about Sterne's Mill, visit by clicking here.
