You may be paying for the best internet plan your ISP offers, but the truth is that the position of your router can make a huge difference in how good or bad your Wi-Fi performs. That’s why I’m busting seven common myths related to router positioning to help you get the most out of your Wi-Fi speed and quality.
Myth 1: You can place the router in the corner to reduce clutter
Placing your router in the corner of your living room or bedroom may make your space look neat, but it can badly affect your Wi-Fi signal. Ideally, you should place the router in a central location so that it can emit signals in all directions. This is the easiest way to improve your Wi-Fi router speed.
If your home is multi-level, consider upgrading to a mesh network for better and more consistent coverage. Of course, there are several features you should check for when buying a mesh Wi-Fi system. However, if you live in a fairly large space, it is worth investing in. Even in this case, you must ensure that the primary node is located in the center, and the other nodes are placed strategically across the house to maximize Wi-Fi performance.
Myth 2: You can place the router on the floor for stability
I have been to homes where the Wi-Fi router was placed on the floor for stability and easy access to a power outlet. While this may seem practical, placing the router on the floor can limit the propagation of the Wi-Fi signal. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi signals travel downward and outward as well.
If you place the router on the floor, the floor will absorb at least some of the signal. To prevent this, you should place your Wi-Fi router on a slight elevation. If you have a bookshelf or a table, place the router on one of these objects to maximize the propagation of the signal.
Myth 3: You can place the router near a window for better range
Placing the router near a window where it can transmit Wi-Fi signals with fewer obstructions may seem logical. However, glass can scatter or reflect Wi-Fi signals, leading to poor connectivity indoors.
Even if the window is open, you run the risk of exposing your router to direct sunlight, which can cause it to overheat and hamper its performance. So, instead of placing the router near a window, it is better to place it in a shady, non-reflective area.
Myth 4: You can place the router near other electronics to save space
It may be tempting to place your router on a shelf with other electronics and gadgets to save space and keep the area more organized, but this can severely affect the propagation of Wi-Fi signals.
Many gadgets, especially those that operate on the same 2.4 GHz frequency as your Wi-Fi network, can interfere with and weaken the router’s signal. This may not be as big a problem if you’re on the 5 GHz band as opposed to the 2.4 GHz band, but you may still face interference from metal components on other gadgets, which can reflect the signal.
To prevent this, keep your router at least five feet away from other electronics. If this isn’t practical for your home, try to keep the router as far away from other gadgets in your space as possible.
Myth 5: You can hide the router behind furniture or other objects
Walls and pillars can affect the router’s performance. Heavy objects like couches or bookshelves around the router can weaken the outgoing Wi-Fi signal. If you want to optimize Wi-Fi reception in your home, do a quick scan around the router for large objects that might be blocking the signal.
Try to move these objects away as much as possible so that the Wi-Fi signal has more open area to travel freely. If you can’t move your furniture around, elevate the router so that the signal can bypass obstacles.
Myth 6: You can put the router in the basement or attic for better coverage
By now, you’ve probably figured out that the best place for your router is somewhere in the middle and open space. This means that the basement and attic are naturally the last places you should put your router.
However, if your home office is in the basement or attic or you spend a lot of time on those floors, you might still want strong Wi-Fi connectivity in these areas. In this case, it is best for you to use a mesh Wi-Fi network or a signal extender to increase your Wi-Fi coverage. This way, you will be able to enjoy good Wi-Fi coverage in different parts of the house without having to place your router in some obscure part of the basement or attic.