If you want to boost your broadband this weekend then there’s a simple trick to try and it’s something experts say is the ‘first thing’ they do.
It’s the Easter weekend and that means you’re probably all set for a house full of friends and family. With endless relatives arriving they are sure to want access to the internet so now is a good time to make sure your broadband is running nice and smoothly. Of course, there are plenty of Wi-Fi boosting tips to try but one of the simplest things you can do is just switch off the router, wait a few minutes, and then turn things back on again.
It might sound far too easy but it’s something Internet Service Provider (ISP) Virgin Media recommends as it can clear issues and help get things back up to speed again.
In fact, Virgin says It’s the first thing they ask people to do when calling for advice. “Sometimes a reboot can help solve a number of hub connection issues. It’s also the first thing we would ask you to do if you called us for help,” Virgin confirmed.
You’ll find the power button on the rear of your router. Just switch it to the off position, wait at least a minute, then turn things back on again.
The only thing to be aware of is that it can take around five minutes to perform the full reboot so make sure nobody needs the web or is in the middle of a vital download or Zoom call before beginning the reset.
Hopefully, that does the trick. If things still seem slow then run a speed test on your Wi-Fi and write down the score. Then plug your laptop directly into the router using an Ethernet cable and run the same test again. If that is much faster you know it’s your Wi-Fi that’s letting you down rather than the broadband connection itself.
To boost the Wi-Fi make sure your router is away from any obstacles and isn’t shoved in a cupboard as this can block the signal.
Keep any boosters away from fish tanks, microwave ovens, cordless phones and baby monitors as these objects can all affect things as well.
If possible, position the router as high up as possible as this will help the signal beam out around the home.
Still getting dead spots? It might be time to invest in a mesh network which should make sure your whole home gets access to the web.
Ring your provider as they might offer a boost for a small monthly fee.
