August Tech Challenge: Boost Your Wi-Fi

How should I start this month’s challenge?

“Boost your Wi-Fi” sounds relatively easy, doesn’t it? As if all you have to do is turn a dial or put in new batteries or switch internet providers. In reality, once you start reading about ways to improve your internet speed and Wi-Fi signal, you’ll find there are a LOT of variables that can impact your internet experience, and a lot of fixes that range from simple to technical, cheap to expensive. We’ll start simple and work up.

Is there a quick fix to improve my network?

If you haven’t tried the Fibernetics Self Help App, that should be your first move. It’s designed to assess the health of your network and provide you with suggestions for improving your network health.

Fibernetics Support App

Download the Fibernetics Support App from the App Store or Google Play. Run a Network Scan and get suggestions on how to improve your network’s health.

If you’ve done that and things don’t seem to have improved much, let’s move on.

Is something interfering with the Wi-Fi signal?

There are any number of obstacles your Wi-Fi signal may have to navigate so the next step is to ask: Is my router in the best possible location in my home?

Competing signals can come from microwaves, bluetooth devices, other Wi-Fi networks (from neighbours or within your home if you have multiple networks set up), and baby monitors. There may also be physical impediments like water (have a large fish tank?), large TVs, and building materials in your home (concrete, masonry, or thick wooden walls).

water can block signals

Wi-Fi signals can be blocked by baby monitors, microwaves, and large amounts of water

The best advice is to place your router in an open area, close to the middle of your home (vertically and horizontally), off the floor, out of the kitchen, away from walls… starting to sound like an impossible task? The trick is to not settle for the first spot you find. Move the router to different floors and different ends of the house. The “best advice” is just advice after all; you might have a nice large open space in the middle of your home, but if one of the walls is a two story glass aquarium, then your router will struggle (sounds nice though, can I come over some time?). Take your time to figure out which location provides the most coverage. You can actually map your home to see which areas are getting the best and worst coverage, using a free app called NetSpot.

antennas on router

If your router has multiple antennas, don’t have them all facing the same direction.

And don’t forget about those antennas, they aren’t just for decoration. If your router has two or more external antennas, make sure they’re pointing in different directions. As mentioned before, Wi-Fi signals may be navigating a lot of obstacles in your home to reach your devices. Having multiple antennas gives your router options and it will pick the antenna with the signal that has the most direct route to your device. Getting a higher quality router with more antennas, gives your router more signals and more routes to pick from, and a better chance of improved coverage throughout your entire home.

Do I have the best router? Best modem? What’s the difference?

Let’s start with the difference between them: The modem is the box that brings the internet into your house through cables. The router is the box that creates a network in your home which wireless devices can use to both access the internet and talk to each other.

Your Internet Service Provider may equip you with a router, a modem, or a combination box that does both, but there’s no need to stick with the one they installed. There are a lot of different routers on the market to satisfy many different customer needs. If you’re a single person living in a small apartment, with only a few devices, the standard-issue router may suit your needs just fine. But if you’re a family of ten all using different devices in an 8000 square foot mansion, that router your ISP installed just isn’t going to cut it.

wifi extender

Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system to increase coverage throughout your entire home

If you tried the NetSpot app and found dead zones in your house, you have a few options: you can try a wi-fi extender (a relatively cheap solution for smaller spaces), a mesh router (a more expensive but better option for coverage throughout your entire home), or get a new router. The choice you make will depend on how much you’re willing to spend, the amount of devices being used in your home at any one time, the amount and type of data being moved, and the number of square feet you want to cover. Use those data points to do your research and find the best option for your particular needs.

Are my router and devices configured with the best settings for my needs?

Here’s where things start to get a bit more technical. The following may give you some options for further improvements, or might make you say, “Uh, I can live with my connection the way it is!”

Depending on the type of router you have, there are a number of different settings which can improve your network. For example, some routers come with the ability to switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. The 2.4GHz frequency reaches farther but moves data more slowly (wider range, lower bandwidth) while the 5GHz frequency moves more data but not as far (greater bandwidth, shorter range).

Deciding which to use is again based on your needs: overall you’ll get better throughput with the 5GHz and you should use it for streaming video or games at close range or in direct line of sight with your router where possible. If you’re using 5GHz and aren’t getting great coverage, then you may need to switch back to the 2.4GHz or try the aforementioned extender or mesh options.

To find out how to switch your router switch between 2.4GHz and 5GHz, consult your router manual. In some cases, your router will transmit both frequencies simultaneously and, depending on the technology in the device you’re using, your device may automatically navigate between the two to make use of the strongest one (although be mindful of the fact that older technology will not support 5GHz). Again, research is required to know exactly what your device is capable of and what frequencies your router transmits.

There’s a lot more we could say here about frequencies and channels… but maybe we’ll save some of the more technical fixes for another day. There really are so many options when it comes to improving your Wi-Fi network so for now, run through the ones we’ve provided and we’ll see you in September for another challenge!

Internet Safety: Public Wi-Fi & Online Shopping

We’re continuing on our internet safety theme from last month and diving further into how to protect yourself online when using public Wi-Fi or shopping online.

PUBLIC WI-FI

The thought of heading to the local coffee shop to “work from home” is alluring, but how safe is it? There are risks to using public Wi-Fi that you should know about before you click that “Join” button.

What’s the difference between home Wi-Fi and public Wi-Fi?

At home you make use of a router connected to a server owned by your internet service provider. You have elected to have a relationship with your provider and you should choose a provider you trust: every search and keystroke you enter passes through their server and can theoretically be accessed (except for encrypted passwords), although the terms under which that information can be accessed should be outlined in their Privacy Policy.

With public Wi-Fi, you can’t be sure who has access to the server you’re connecting to. Additionally, it is relatively easy for hackers using the same Wi-Fi to get in between you and the public server, even posing as the “free Wi-Fi” that you connect to, thereby gaining access to your personal information. To learn more about the dangers of public Wi-Fi, take a look at this article.

So, what to do about it?

When using public Wi-Fi, you should use a Virtual Private Network. A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your computer and the VPN server so that your data is protected. To learn more about VPNs check out this article.

ONLINE SHOPPING

You’re not alone if you prefer shopping from your couch rather than heading to a busy shopping centre. Over 84% of Canadians polled in 2018 purchased goods and services online, and that number continues to grow.

Along with payment information, shopping online means providing your address, phone number, and email address. You’re also potentially giving out other personal information just by virtue of what you are buying.

To keep your information safe, there are a number of guidelines you should follow. To begin with, don’t shop using public Wi-Fi, especially without a VPN. As mentioned above, it’s relatively simple for hackers using the same public Wi-Fi to retrieve the information you’re entering.

women on couch shopping with tablet

Shop online from home

Next, when shopping online, always pay with a credit card rather than connecting to your bank account. Many sites only accept credit cards, but this should be your standard operating procedure even with payment methods that allow you to connect to a bank account, such as PayPal. Payments made with credit cards can be more easily disputed and credit card companies are quicker to reimburse your money if there has been a breach. If a hacker gains access to your bank account through details you’ve entered online, you have a much smaller chance of ever seeing that money again.

Padlock Icon

Look for the padlock icon in the URL when entering personal information

Finally, always make sure the site is encrypted by checking for the padlock symbol in the site address which ensures that information you enter is secure as it travels between your computer and the site’s server. For some good tips on how to safely use your credit card online check out this article.

With more and more everyday objects able to connect to the internet, such as watches and home entertainment systems, there’s always more we can say about internet safety. Watch for more tips from us in the future here and on social media.

Understanding Mesh Networks

Over the next few weeks, we’re focusing on the importance of connection and how to optimize your Internet speeds. Technology is changing, and as the Internet of Things continues to expand, your home will become more dependent on fast and reliable connections.

Even though it’s gradually becoming a trending topic, mesh networks have been around for quite some time. Mesh systems have considerable benefits and are more than a temporary tech hype.

What is a Mesh Network?

Traditional Wi-Fi uses a single router to spread a signal. However, if you’re too far away from the router or there are interferences from walls, appliances, etc., the connection might not reach you.

A mesh network creates individual points that work together to deliver a strong Wi-Fi signal without the hassle of dead zones or signal drops.

A mesh network uses the existing Wi-Fi signal from your modem or router to supply internet coverage through a network of interlocking routers called nodes, or points. “Nodes” are referred to as connection points, and each pod within a mesh network serves as an individual point to deliver a strong Wi-Fi signal without the hassle of dead zones or signal drops. The signal will hop between nodes until it reaches a destination.

The Benefits

Larger homes and dwellings with thick walls, multiple floors and other structural obstructions may require additional technology to bring Wi-Fi to areas that the router can’t reach. Mesh networks are designed to blanket your home with wireless coverage. Here are three benefits of a mesh network. 

Adaptable and Expandable 

A mesh network can be as big or small as you wish. Mesh nodes can be added and removed as less coverage is needed. 

Optimal Coverage 

One of the main benefits of a mesh network is the coverage you will receive. The system of nodes works together to provide a signal throughout your entire home. 

Automatic Connection 

A mesh system not only expands your Wi-Fi range but also helps your devices automatically connect to the strongest point as you move around your home. Whether you’re in your bedroom, living room or kitchen, your device will seamlessly switch to the strongest signal.

Choosing Your Mesh System

The best wireless mesh networks provide high-speeds and reliable Wi-Fi that stretches to every corner of your home. There are a number of mesh systems available on the market. We suggest checking out this article for more information on pricing, ratings and more.  

There are so many choices that it may be difficult to choose the right system for your home. Next week, we will be looking at Powerline Adapters and how they can help you optimize your Internet connection.

How To Boost Your Wi-Fi Signal

Today, almost all your devices rely on Wi-Fi, and a strong connection is vital. If your wireless network isn’t performing to your expectations, there are a few ways you can improve the signal before ordering a new modem or router.

Here are a few tips to help boost your signal and get a faster wireless connection.

Placement

PlacementThe placement of your router is crucial! The more walls or floors the signal travels through, the weaker the signal will be. You’ll want to avoid placing your modem close to metal objects and appliances that emit electromagnetic waves, such as microwaves. If you’re looking for the fastest and most reliable signal, elevate your router, place it towards the centre of the house, not too close to walls or appliances.

Switch Channels

Wireless routers can operate on several different channels. Like lanes on a highway, there are multiple Wi-Fi channels on which a router can broadcast. Other people in your apartment building, neighbourhood, etc., might be using the same channel as you. The more people on a channel, the more interference there will be. The solution is simple: switch the channel your router is on.

Devices Connected

Connected DevicesStreaming videos, playing games, and browsing online at the same time can take up a lot of bandwidth! This can affect your internet speed and Wi-Fi connection. If you have multiple devices connected over Wi-Fi, it might interfere with your connection. Consider connecting devices such as gaming systems, smart TVs or streaming devices with an ethernet cable.  If you have lots of guests, try creating a separate guest network for them.

Switch to 5GHz

Wi-Fi networks use radio signals in either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency bands. The 5GHz wireless frequency provides faster rates over a shorter distance. 2.4GHz on the other hand, is capable of broadcasting over longer distances. If your device is far away from your modem, it may be better to use the 2.4Ghz frequency. If your modem or router supports it, and your device is nearby the modem or router, consider switching to 5GHz to take advantage of those faster speeds.

Wi-Fi Extender

Routers usually have a certain distance that they will send a signal to reliably. The farther away you are from the router, the weaker and slower the signal will be. To help improve the distance your Wi-Fi reaches, you can purchase a wireless booster or extender. These devices will pick up your existing router and re-broadcast it.

If you are willing to spend a little more, you can also invest in a mesh network. A mesh network is a network of interlocking routers called points, or nodes. These points work with one another to supply internet coverage over a broad area. A mesh network router will usually provide superior coverage and signal strength. To learn more about mesh networks, watch the video below.

Reboot

“If it doesn’t work, try switching it on and off.” This applies to Wi-Fi routers as well. Simply reboot your router to improve Wi-Fi speeds. A reboot will reconfigure the router allowing it to update.

At Worldline, we offer a Wi-Fi modem with a built-in router. Lagging Wi-Fi signals are frustrating, but these signal boosting tips can help alleviate some of those frustrations, giving you the best possible Wi-Fi signal. Visit our website to learn more about our High-Speed Internet options.

Ethernet vs. WiFi in Gaming

Which connection is better for online gaming?

A common question in gaming is whether to play over Ethernet (wired) or WiFi (wireless). Even though there is a simple answer to this question, there are several variables and circumstances that can make either option effective.

Is there a real difference?

CablesThere is an apparent difference between Ethernet and WiFi – one is physically wired in from the router, while the other allows you to use your connection from anywhere within range. The question boils down to a simple discussion regarding performance and reliability.

For instance, the kind of cabling you use for Ethernet and the supporting WiFi hardware of your devices can make a huge difference in performance.

Wireless is convenient for smartphones, electronic devices and laptops, and it can still be used on a stationary PC. However, in many cases, you won’t get the same performance as you would with Ethernet cable.

There is a definite advantage to using an Ethernet connection. Ethernet offers users a direct wire to the router, avoiding wireless interference and delivering high-level security. When it comes to gaming, any enthusiast will tell you that wired connections are best. But, is wireless really that bad?

Pros & Cons

There is a clear list of pros and cons for both connections. To get a better idea of what you can get with each, see the list below.

Wired Ethernet Connection

Pros

  • Fast speeds
  • No interference
  • Reliable connection
  • Great performance

Cons

  • Cable
  • No convenient if the router is far away

Wireless WiFi Connection

Pros

  • Good speed
  • Good performance
  • No wires/cables
  • Convenient

Cons

  • Possible connection interference
  • Not always reliable
  • Easily blocked by concrete walls or metal door frames

Which one should you choose?

Cable or Wireless?Many mainstream wireless routers may not view gaming as a latency-sensitive application and will instead prioritize video and voice over gaming traffic. By connecting directly over Ethernet, users won’t have to worry about prioritization or lag because you’re on a stable, reliable connection. Gaming online means that there will inevitably be some level of latency, but using an Ethernet cable minimizes latency and interference.

If you are a gamer who hates network interference, lag, and slow response times while online, then you’re probably more likely to go with a wired Ethernet connection. If your router is relatively close, then it’s highly recommended that you go with a wired option to get the best performance and connectivity. The benefits and performance of Ethernet truly outweigh WiFi’s convenience.

What connection do you prefer to use? Leave a comment below. For more information on Worldline High Speed Internet, visit www.worldline.ca/services/high-speed-internet/.