If you use Virgin Media to get broadband whizzed around your home now is a good time to check your router.
Virgin Media users would be wise to take note of the latest advice from the UK Internet Service Provider and check their Wi-Fi router without delay. It seems a very simple mistake – that’s hugely easy to make – can bring broadband speeds grinding to a very irritating halt. The issue is all down to that flashing black box – which beams the web around homes – and what position it is in.
Most users know not to pop their router in a cupboard or hide it behind their TVs, but many may not be aware of the problems should this device topple over and end up lying on its side.
If you find your router is not stood up then it’s a good idea to sort as soon as possible. “Keep your router upright with the front lights facing into the room to ensure the WiFi antennas inside the router are in the most efficient orientation and less of your WiFi signal is wasted,” Virgin Media explained.
If you don’t follow this advice some of the signal that beams out of the router will head straight into the carpet rather than it whizzing around the rooms of your home.
There is another reason why checking the position is important as lying things flat can cause the device to overheat and that will affect its overall performance.
“Having the router upright will also ensure optimal air flow through the Hub and help avoid overheating,” Virgin added.
Whilst you are looking at your router there are some other things to check including if the device is near fish tanks, other electrical items such as baby monitors and if it’s high enough off the floor.
Routers also hate kitchens so if you have yours placed next to the microwave it’s a good idea to move it without delay if you want the best signal.
“Metal can wreak havoc with your connection,” Virgin explained. “Kitchens are often home to heavy-duty metal appliances (think ovens, fridges and washing machines), as well as signal-emitting electronics like microwaves, making them a particularly inhospitable environment for your router.”
One final thing that’s worth doing is giving your Wi-Fi a quick reboot. Simply switch it off, leave it for a minute then turn it back on again. This should fix any gremlins in the system and get your broadband back up to speed.
