As long as your internet network is functional and meeting your requirements, you probably won’t give much thought to devices like modems and routers. However, increasing your knowledge about these devices is important to be able to get the maximum value out of them. When you optimize these tools, you’ll see significant improvements in the quality and performance of your wired and non-wired connections such as Spectrum cable internet and others.
Here are some tips and tricks through which you can get the best out of these network devices.
1. Reboot Regularly
When your computer is acting sluggish, you restart it. And when you need to clear your mind at work, you take a break to start afresh. In the same way, when your modem or router is not performing up to the mark, it means it is time to reboot. Just like a computer, these devices also use processors, operating systems, and memory. Hence you should restart them to avoid signal losses and to improve slow connections.
Even the FBI recommends restarting your router to disable a harmful malware known can VPNFilter. It is designed to infect your router and other storage devices attached to your network. This is reason enough to make the effort to unplug and replug your modem and router. After all, it only takes a minute or two but saves hours of hassle.
2. Weigh the Options of Renting & Buying
Are you aware of what your internet service provider’s monthly bill includes? You may be paying a monthly rental for your router or modem. Whether or not to rent is a decision that you should take after weighing the pros and cons.
If you buy a router and modem of your own separately or even as part of a single unit known as a ‘wireless gateway,’ you wouldn’t have to pay an additional cost for renting the ISP’s devices. But if you buy these yourself, the cost would vary depending on whether you use a mesh network such as Eero or need extenders. If that is the case, the cost may go up but the investment would pay off in the long run.
Having said that, you also need to consider the advantages of renting these devices. If your router or modem stops working or becomes obsolete, you always have the convenience to trade them with your ISP for an upgrade. Also, when renting, your ISP would be responsible for handling troubleshooting issues that might come up; you wouldn’t have to take the hassle.
It’s also possible that the company is not adding extra monthly charges for using the network devices. Either way, take a good look at your bill and weigh the pros and cons to determine what would work best for you (renting or buying).
3. Reuse Old Devices
Even if you purchase a new router/modem or get an upgraded one from your internet service provider, do not dispose of the older one. You can reuse old routers for several other purposes. It could be capable of supporting higher speeds. In that case, you can avail it for several new uses. Besides, you can also use it to extend the range of your network. Also, you can simply set it up as a guest Wi-Fi internet connection to prevent outsiders from accessing any of the devices working on your network. It always pays to recycle, especially in the case of old routers.
4. Place Device in Optimal Location
Many people overlook this aspect when setting up a network. Remember, the placement of your router has everything to do with the performance of your connection. According to Wi-Fi mapping tests, the ideal location for a router in the center of a residence/office. This would ensure the best connection speeds possible. Wi-fi signals can be blocked by the most basic things such as furniture, mirrors, books, doors, and walls. So always, place your router in an elevated spot that is away from electronics and other obstructions.
5. Move the Antennas
There would be two to three antennas sticking out from the top of the router. There are there for a purpose. By moving them you can improve the strength of the internet signals. Ideally, you should put these antennas perpendicular to each other. One should be facing horizontal and the other vertical. This would provide you the best results.
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