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August, 2010

Tips for a better Wi-Fi connection

Tips for a better Wi-Fi connection

Most of us have already connected our computers to a router using a wireless connection. This type of network is called a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) or more popularly Wi-Fi. We have some tips to help you avoid Wi-Fi interference and dropouts with other wireless and non-wireless devices in your home.

There are two main standards of Wi-Fi in use at the moment:

  • 802.11g which operates on the 2.4GHz frequency
  • 802.11n which operates on the 2.4GHz and/or 5GHz frequencies (when using both, it's called dual-band)

There are a number of devices that share the 2.4GHz frequency with your wireless network. These devices, along with a number of non-wireless and even some non-electrical obstacles can cause interference with Wi-Fi signals.

Here are some tips on how to get better Wi-Fi stability:

  • Keep cordless phones, microwave ovens and baby monitors at least 2 meters away from your wireless router.
  • Put your wireless router in an elevated position e.g. on top of a desk.
  • Minimise physical obstructions between the router and the computer (don't forget those brick walls!)
  • Fish tanks may seem like an unlikely culprit but water, in a large enough quantity, can disrupt a wireless signal.
  • If you're technically minded, you can try changing the wireless channel on the router to channels 1, 6 or 11.
  • Change your router to a dual-band N (802.11n) router which operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency. Remember, if you change your router, you must also have dual-band capable N wireless adapters to connect to it.

If you're still having problems with your wireless connection, call gizmo on 1300 275 449.
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