How To Get The Best From Your Wireless Router

Wireless technology is becoming more and more prevalent in our lives, yet for many people, knowledge of how to use their Netgear routers to maximise its effectiveness stops when it is plugged in, turned on and connected to their computer. Below you will find some helpful tips to make sure your router is working to its full potential.

The first thing to consider is where the router is positioned. Ideally, it should be located in the centre of your home or office and away from metal objects like filing cabinets, as these can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. Never place your router on a metal surface either, as the quality of the signal it produces will reduce significantly. A wooden table is most suited to this purpose.

If you have a large number of wireless devices in your home, these could also be contributing to your weakened signal. Cordless telephone systems, microwaves, garage door opening key fobs and baby monitors emit radio waves at a similar frequency to wireless routers. To avoid interference from these devices, keep them as far away from your router as possible, or consider changing the channel of your router so they no longer clash. If this is not something you feel confident doing, consult you internet service provider, who can offer advice and tips on safe ways to change channels.

It is also worth considering an high-gain antenna for your router. The aerial's on wireless routers tend to be omni-directional, meaning that they send signal out in all directions. If your router is placed near an outside wall, then a considerable amount of signal is transmitting through there. A high-gain antenna emits signal in one direction. This is useful if you have no choice but to keep your router near the edge of your home or office, as the aerial can be positioned in such a way to keep all your signal beamed into the area where it is needed.

The number of machines using your Wi-Fi network will also have an effect on signal strength. If you are running a network of five or more machines, it is advisable to connect some of them to the router via cable. This would free up some wireless bandwidth and increase the signal for those machines that are too far from the router for cable connection. If this is not possible, then you should invest in a wireless repeater. These devices help to extend the range of the Wi-Fi signal from your router without any extra wiring or upgrade to the broadband package you receive from your provider.

There are plenty of things you can do to improve your wireless router's signal strength. Just be sure to try relocating your router to a more central location before tackling any of the more technical pieces of advice.

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