Do you ever experience slow or weak WiFi signals on your laptop? It can be frustrating, especially when you are trying to browse the internet. Nowadays, WiFi has become a necessity, and it is available almost everywhere. However, receiving a strong WiFi signal is not always guaranteed. In this article, we will share some tips on how to boost your laptop’s WiFi signal strength and get a better internet connection.
1. Upgrade to the Latest Wireless Technology:
The current business and technological advancements have brought about newer and better wireless technologies. Consequently, replacing your laptop’s wireless card with the latest technology might boost your WiFi signal strength. There are five wireless technologies available: A, B, G, N, and AC. In terms of speed, the “N” and “AC” technologies perform better than “A,” “B,” and “G.” If your router uses “N” and “AC,” the signal booster will work more effectively.
2. Position Your Laptop Correctly:
WiFi signals propagate through the air, and therefore, minimizing obstacles between your laptop and the router can help. Position your laptop closer to the router to obtain a stronger signal.
3. Use an Empty Channel:
Confirm if other users are using the same WiFi router. If so, selecting an empty WiFi channel is beneficial. You can do this by using an application called “inSSIDer” on Windows 7-10. Choosing a channel that is less crowded will give you a better signal strength.
4. Keep Away from other Electronic Devices:
Various electronic devices like microwaves can interfere with your WiFi signal. Therefore, it’s essential to minimize the use of other electronic devices around the router. You can also use a dual band router to move frequencies quickly.
5. Control Bandwidth Consuming Applications:
Several online activities like video streaming, online gaming, and file sharing can consume a lot of bandwidth, making the WiFi signal slow. To control bandwidth usage, configure “Quality of Service (QoS)” settings on your router to allocate bandwidth to preferred applications.
6. Utilize DD-WRT Firmware:
DD-WRT firmware is a software application that helps hack the router and enhance its wireless signal strength. It’s a risky process, but it results in a higher power transmitter. By doing so, your WiFi signal range will increase significantly.
7. Use a Strong Security System:
If your internet speed is fast, but you are experiencing slow WiFi speed, it’s possible that another user has access to your WiFi network. To avoid unwanted intrusion into your WiFi network, use a strong security system. Use WPA2 security, which is the best encryption system currently available. Also use a unique password that is difficult to crack.
8. Use a WiFi Repeater:
A WiFi repeater is a device that helps receive weak WiFi signals and retransmit them with more power. If you’re located in an area with poor WiFi reception, then a repeater can be a great solution. Also, WiFi repeaters are suitable for positioning near concrete walls, metal walls, and other obstructions.
9. Restart Your Router Frequently:
Restart your router regularly to boost your signal strength. A router can get overheated when used continuously for an extended period, interfering with the WiFi signal. You can also use the DD-WRT firmware app to set up automatic restarts at specific intervals.
10. Make Use of Recycled Cans:
This is an old-fashioned yet effective way to boost your laptop WiFi signal strength. Simply cut off the bottom and top of a can, leaving a couple of centimeters on the ends. Then, cut the sides of the can, leaving it open. As we mentioned earlier, WiFi signals propagate through the air, and cans help to amplify your WiFi signal.
In conclusion, there are several ways to boost your laptop’s WiFi signal strength. Using the right wireless technology, positioning your laptop in the right spot, selecting the right WiFi channel and using DD-WRT firmware can help. Utilizing recycled cans, upgrading your router’s firmware and using a WiFi repeater can also help enhance your signal strength. By using these tips, you can get a strong and steady WiFi signal on your laptop.
