If your Wi-Fi repeatedly causes problems, the cause may be inside your own home. Routers are often placed near devices that interfere with the wireless signals and slow down the connection. Below, you’ll find out which objects to watch for and how to avoid them.
These devices must not be placed next to the Wi-Fi router
1. Baby monitors
Many video baby monitors transmit in the same 2.4 GHz range as WLAN routers. As a result, both compete for the same radio path. This leads to interference, faltering data transmissions, and interrupted streams. That’s why a baby monitor should always be kept at a safe distance from the router.
2. Microwaves
Microwaves also operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range. Although modern devices are well-shielded, there is easily measurable leakage radiation at the door. This is sufficient to attenuate WLAN signals. A router should therefore not be placed on the kitchen counter or in the immediate vicinity of a microwave oven.
3. Bluetooth devices and wireless speakers
Bluetooth uses the same frequency spectrum as older WLAN networks. If multiple speakers, headphones, or controllers are active, data collisions can occur near the router. Keeping a bit of distance or switching to the 5 GHz network can significantly improve stability.
4. Cordless telephones
The base station of a cordless telephone continuously transmits radio signals. If it’s located directly next to the router or repeater, the WLAN quality will drop noticeably. The telephone base should be placed on a shelf or in another room.
5. Wireless cameras and smart home hubs
Surveillance cameras, smart home hubs, and other smart control centers transmit constantly. Many even occupy several wireless channels at once. If these devices sit close to the router, they can reduce data throughput across the entire Wi-Fi network.
6. Refrigerators, metal cabinet, and radiators
Metal surfaces strongly reflect and absorb Wi-Fi waves, causing a router to lose range and performance almost immediately. An open, raised area in the room with as little metal nearby as possible is ideal.
7. Aquariums
Water is very good at absorbing radio waves, so an aquarium between the router and your device can behave like a wall. Even a small amount of distance from the tank can significantly improve the signal range.
How to position your router correctly
A good location contributes to how stable and fast your Wi-Fi runs. These points will help you find the best position:
- Position centrally: If possible, place the router in the center of the home so that the wireless signal is evenly distributed and doesn’t get stuck on the outer walls.
- Elevated positioning: Placing the router on a shelf or sideboard can significantly improve its range. When it’s near the floor, the signal is more quickly weakened by furniture or radiators.
- Free-standing placement: The router should not be placed in cupboards, behind the TV, or next to large metal surfaces. Paneling and metal surfaces weaken the wireless performance.
- Uuse the 5 GHz band: Activate the 5 GHz network if your router supports dual band. This band is less congested and reacts less to interference in the home.
- Switch on automatic channel detection: Modern routers recognize crowded wireless channels and automatically switch to a better option. Automatic control usually offers more stable results than manual settings. This function can be activated via the user interface of your router. For example, open fritz.box or 192.168.1.1 in the browser and switch to the WLAN or wireless channel area. Select “Automatic” or “Automatic control” and save the setting.
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.