Wi-Fi router installation utilities have become easier over time, but to get the most out of your new router, you usually need to go a little further than what the standard installation procedure would allow. The performance and security of your network may not be as excellent as they could be just because everything is plugged in and all the blinking lights have turned green. Follow these basic steps to configure your router and optimise your wireless network properly.
How do I configure my router?
You can adjust your router’s settings with the login and password entered. Use the simple setup wizard first. Most routers offer a quick setup process requiring only an SSID and password. Whenever in doubt, start there. The fastest route is always to use the setup utility and the router’s manual.
Second, connect Wi-Fi devices by pressing the WPS button. You already know how this operates if you’ve paired two Bluetooth devices, such as smartphones and headphones. Consider the scenario when you want to link a Windows laptop to your router. Your router’s SSID will appear in Windows’ list of visible wireless networks on your computer. Windows will ask you to enter the network security key when you choose the SSID and try to connect (which is a needlessly technical way of saying “password”).
Ultimately, auto-configuration tools are your friend; if in doubt, let the router handle it. For instance, while it is possible to manually create your internal IP address range and assign static addresses to each of your devices, simply checking the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) box in your router’s settings will immediately take care of that since this protocol assigns IP addresses to devices automatically. Use the auto settings as much as possible, at least during the first setup and use.
Tips for optimizing your home Wi-Fi
- Achieve optimal router placement
The critical areas of your building will have the best signal reception. Put your router or access point high on a shelf on the first floor of a two-story building so that devices on the second floor will receive an excellent signal. - Keep your router updated
Router manufacturers like Excitel regularly offer free updates. These updates may improve the effectiveness of your router. The software or driver that the router uses to communicate with your network device may also occasionally be updated by network adapter suppliers. These updates boost dependability and performance. You can check Excitel’s website for updates or sign up for email newsletters to receive notifications. - Get a stronger antenna
Omnidirectional router antennas typically broadcast in all directions. Therefore, placing a router close to an exterior wall broadcasts 50% of your wireless signals to the outside. However, many routers come with detachable antennae. You can direct the router’s wireless signal in any direction by swapping the omnidirectional antenna for a high-gain antenna. - Cut-off Wi-Fi leeches
Nowadays, Wi-Fi must be password-protected and encrypted. There is a real need for open, speedy Wi-Fi networks because more people than ever rely on them. Please don’t assume that just because your neighbours have their own Wi-Fi network, they won’t use yours. Your Wi-Fi should be encrypted and protected with a strong, hard-to-guess password. - Add a Wi-Fi extender
Wireless repeaters are helpful devices that amplify a wireless signal from your network and rebroadcast it to additional floors or the other side of a building. You can put one anywhere there is an outlet but try to find spots halfway between your device and your router, modem, or access point. Do some research before buying one of these products. Certain wireless extenders could be challenging to set up and harm your network’s performance. - Change your wireless channel
Wireless routers have a variety of channels on which they can broadcast. If you have interference, try altering the wireless router’s channel using the router’s settings page. You can typically reach this page by opening your web browser and typing the IP address in the address bar. Your device can detect the new channel automatically, so you don’t need to make any configuration changes. - Buy equipment from a single network provider
Although network adapters and routers from different manufacturers can coexist, their performance can improve if they come from the same company. These advancements can be helpful if you live in an older home where thicker walls can block more of the signal or use wireless-G gadgets to broadcast over long distances. - Upgrade to 802.11n
In general, buy wireless-N technology from Excitel when investing in new equipment. Wireless-G may be the most widely used wireless network, but wireless-N is at least twice as fast and offers superior stability and range. As 802.11a, 802.11b, and 802.11g are backwards compatible with Wireless-N, you can continue utilising any wireless devices you own. But, if you upgrade your gadget or network adapter to wireless-N, performance will significantly improve. - Reduce wireless interference
Operating at a 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) frequency is 802.11g (wireless-G), the most widely used wireless technology. Many wireless devices, such as cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors, and garage door openers, operate on this frequency. These may cause signal noise that disrupts your device’s and router’s connection. - Purchase a better Internet plan
It’s simple to overlook how many gadgets today use Wi-Fi to access the internet. These Wi-Fi-connected devices, which range from laptops and smartphones to various cutting-edge home furnishings and appliances, demand significant bandwidth, which not all internet plans can offer. Consider switching to Excitel if you’ve been paying for the same internet subscription for years.One of the above solutions should increase your Wi-Fi signal throughout your home or install an Excitel internet connection for uninterrupted service. Wi-Fi signal issues are a bane of modern life, so don’t put up with it when you can easily do something to improve it.
Frequently asked questions
How can I get faster internet from my router?
Place the wireless router on the main floor of your home, away from walls and other obstacles, for the strongest signal. Position it above the furniture, off the ground, if possible. Keep it away from other electronics like cordless phones, microwaves, and baby monitors that could interfere with it.
Is it better to connect to 5GHz or 2.4 GHz?
Choose 2.4 GHz if you want a more comprehensive range and use the 5GHz band if you require more speed or performance. The 5GHz band, the more recent of the two, has the potential to improve network performance by reducing interference and network clutter. For example, this band will be more effective at lowering game lag.
Can I use both 2.4 and 5GHz at the same time?
Dual-band routers operating simultaneously on both 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies are called simultaneous dual-band routers. As a result, it offers two separate, dedicated networks, increasing flexibility and bandwidth.
