Stop Letting Lag Slow You Down: 7 Ways to Improve Your Wi-Fi and Router Setup
How can you get the most out of your Wi-Fi and router setup and reduce lag as much as possible? In this article, a gameHER tells us.
By Grace Frenson
Photo by Marcus Spiske via Upstarter
It’s a scenario that you’re probably all too familiar with: You’re enjoying your favorite Twitch stream, and suddenly the channel starts buffering interminably. No matter how much you refresh the page, the buffering continues, until you’re about ready to switch internet service providers.
While lagging and buffering can occur due to glitches in your ISP system, these problems are more often caused by issues within your own Wi-Fi and router setup. Here’s a look at seven ways you can improve your home setup so you can avoid some of these annoying service lapses.
1. Run a Speed Test
Before you decide to switch internet service provider (ISP) companies or buy a new router, it’s better to first run an online speed test to check your internet speed. If the speed is lower than what you’re paying for in your current monthly plan, you’ll want to call your ISP to find out what’s going wrong. In many cases, lower speeds indicate that it’s time to change out your modem. If that’s the case, your ISP will be happy to provide you with a newer one.
2. Check Your Frequency
Your ISP gives you access to a network administrator page where you can reconfigure your setup for optimum reception. If you’re configured for a 2.4GHz band (which is standard), consider switching to a 5GHz band. A 5GHz band provides much higher speeds, plus more seamless reception with less interference from other devices.
3. Move Your Router
This may seem like a too-easy solution; but all too often, lag issues happen simply because your router isn’t in an optimal location for your Wi-Fi signal. Experts advise positioning your router in a centralized place in your home, such as a hallway or main living room. Placing the router on a high shelf can also be helpful — just make sure the cables will reach that high. While experimenting with locations, be sure to keep your router connected to your modem so you can accurately gauge the effectiveness of the area. As a rule of thumb, try to find places away from your walls, as these can obstruct your signal.
4. Purchase an Extender Kit
Wi-Fi extenders can provide a quick, inexpensive solution to lagging and signal interruptions. Once your router is connected, a Wi-Fi extender catches hold of the signal and re-broadcasts it, relaying it to a less congested channel for optimum transmission. To get the absolute best signal strength, you’ll need to place your Wi-Fi extender in a location that’s close to your router, but still central enough so it can broadcast the signal to other areas in your home. Wi-Fi extenders are particularly beneficial in larger houses, especially if you want to access the internet across multiple devices throughout your home.
5. Connect with an Ethernet Cable
While wireless is today’s latest-and-greatest tech innovation, a wired connection can actually be stronger and more reliable, because wireless is still subject to so many glitches. If you continue to have issues and you suspect that the signal in your home is problematic, consider switching back to a wired connection. You may notice an amazing difference right away.
6. Update Your Router
Today’s routers typically have an update function built in, so all you have to do is push a button. For older model routers, you’ll probably need to go to the manufacturer’s website and download a firmware file. Many experts recommend updating your router on a regular basis anyway, because then you’ll be able to access any new features, improvements, or security updates that have been added to your router.
7. Upgrade Your ISP Network Plan
If you’ve been using the same plan for years, it might be time for an upgrade, especially if you’re using more devices throughout your home. A family’s internet use changes over the years, and increased usage means that it might be time to pay for an updated broadband plan.
If you’re still hesitating about upgrading your plan, here’s an interesting fact to consider: In 2016, top download speeds were around 39 megabits per second — enough to support a few devices. Today, with so many homes having near-total connectivity, you might need as much as 1,000 megabits to give you enough broadband width for all your devices.
Whether you’re looking to find a faster Wi-Fi router for gaming, or you're just frustrated with constant lagging and buffering online, it’s a good idea to investigate your router setup first. By doing a bit of tweaking and reconfiguring, or by simply replacing your router location, you could finally start getting those super-fast speeds that you've been paying for every month.
About the Author:
Grace Frenson is a freelance writer from Philadelphia. Grace has a passion for all things tech. As she continues to learn more about emerging technologies, she plans to share her insight and knowledge with those who are equally as passionate on these topics.
Grace Frenson, photo courtesy of the author
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