Optimising your WiFi network

Positioning your router

• Your WiFi router should be positioned in a central location in the building.
• Do not position your router on the floor, in a corner, or in a cupboard.
• Place the router as far away as possible from electrical devices or appliances which may cause interference e.g. motors (fans, hairdryers, etc.), microwaves, and so on.
• Position your router's antennas correctly.
  • If your router's antennas only have one position (like the Huawei AX3) ensure that they are upright and clicked into place.
  • If your router's antennas have more degrees of freedom, see MIMO.
• Consider line-of-sight, and structural obstructions to your WiFi signal. See the following simulation for a demonstration of how a router's position in a building can affect signal strength in different rooms.

Optimise your router's settings

Enable only the required bands

Modern routers may operate on more than one WiFi band, e.g. 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. You'll see a different WiFi network name (SSID) for each band.

Having multiple bands enabled has been known to cause interference or signal degradation, so if you're having WiFi signal issues, consider enabling only the bands you need.

5 GHz

5 GHz WiFi is faster and less prone to interference than 2.4 GHz, however, 5 GHz has more limited range and is less able to penetrate walls.

2.4 GHz

2.4 GHz WiFi is not as fast as 5 GHz, but depending on your line speed and the number of devices on your network, you may not even notice the difference.

Some devices like older smartphones or laptops may only be able to "see" certain WiFi bands. If you have any devices on your network that can only connect to a 2.4 GHz WiFi, and you're experiencing signal issues, consider disabling 5 GHz WiFi on your router.

Set signal strength

Many routers have a setting which allows you to change the strength of the WiFi signal. Log in to your router, and find the WiFi settings page. Ensure that signal/broadcast/transmission strength is set to maximum.

MIMO

If none of the WiFi devices on your network support MU-MIMO or MIMO, consider disabling this feature on your router. If you've disabled MIMO, and if your router's antennas have more degrees of freedom (like the Tenda AC9 or AC10) position the antennas perpendicularly. For example, two antennas pointing up, one pointing back, and one to the side. This is not recommended if MIMO is enabled.

Installing an Access Point or Repeater

Access Points

The most reliable way to extend your WiFi network range is with an Access Point (AP) connected to your router by an Ethernet cable.

Cabling

We recommend a shielded CAT6 Ethernet cable made to your specified length by your favourite local IT shop. This can be run through standard plastic conduit, which can be installed by an electrician or contractor.

Re-purposing an Old Router

• Most modern routers support some form of Bridging or Access Point mode, allowing you to re-purpose an old device to extend your network.
• Specific steps for switching the router to AP mode depend on the make and model. A quick Google search with the make and model should bring up a manual to guide you through the process.
• Typically, this involves connecting to the router’s web interface and configuring the device as needed.

Setting a Router to AP Mode

1. Connect the AP’s WAN port to the Ethernet cable installed from your main router. The WAN port is the port the device expects to receive data on.
2. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to any open LAN port on the main router. This will supply the AP with internet, allowing it to extend your WiFi network.
3. Access the router’s web interface (usually via a web browser by entering the router's IP address).
4. Navigate to the settings and switch the router to AP mode. This option is typically found in the advanced settings menu.
5. Disable the DHCP server on the AP if it has one, as the main router should handle all IP address assignments.
6. Set the SSID and password for the AP. You can use the same SSID and password as your main router for seamless roaming, or a different one if you prefer.

Testing

• After setting up the AP, test the connection with various devices to ensure the extended network is functioning correctly.
• Check for consistent signal strength and speed.

Repeaters

Wireless repeaters are another good option that is easy to use if you’re primarily concerned with extending your WiFi network.

Positioning

• Place the repeater at a midpoint between the main router and the area where you want to extend the signal.
• Ensure the repeater is within the range of the main router’s signal but close enough to the area needing coverage.

Setup

1. Plug in the repeater and ensure it is turned on.
2. Connect the repeater to your PC or laptop with an Ethernet cable for initial configuration.

Configuration

1. Access the repeater’s web interface (usually via a web browser by entering the repeater's IP address).
2. You may see a list of available WiFi networks similar to what you see on your cellphone, or you may have to manually enter the details of the WiFi network you want the repeater to connect to.
3. Enter the SSID (the name of your WiFi network) and the password (also known as the WiFi key or WiFi password).
4. If everything has been configured correctly, the repeater should connect to the WiFi and begin rebroadcasting the signal to extend the network.

Testing

• After setting up the repeater, test the connection with various devices in the extended area to ensure the network is functioning correctly.
• Check for consistent signal strength and speed.

Tips for Best Performance

• Keep the AP or repeater away from electronic devices that may cause interference, such as microwaves and cordless phones.
• Place the AP or repeater in a location with minimal physical obstructions like walls and furniture.
• Ensure that both your main router and AP/repeater have the latest firmware updates for optimal performance and security.