Optimise your home or business network

High-speed packages don’t guarantee fast internet if multiple devices are sharing the bandwidth. Check how many devices are connected to your Wi-Fi (smartphones, laptops, tablets, smart TVs, etc.). Disconnect devices not in use, especially those running automatic updates or background apps. Use your router’s admin panel to see if bandwidth-hogging apps like streaming services are running unnecessarily. Finally, check for any network issues with your Internet Service Provider (ISP).  Run a free speed test here.

Yes, placement plays a huge role in performance. Avoid hiding your router behind furniture, inside cabinets, or near the floor, as these positions can block the signal. Instead, place it in an open area, ideally at waist or chest height, for better signal dispersion. If possible, place it in the middle of your space to ensure even coverage in all directions.

Start by opening doors between rooms to allow the Wi-Fi signal to travel more freely. Remove or reposition large objects that may obstruct the signal, such as furniture or heavy appliances. If the issue persists, ensure that the router is on the same floor as the area needing better connectivity, or as close as possible. Additionally, try experimenting with different positions for the router to see what works best.

Yes, outdated firmware can limit your router's performance and security. Log into your router’s admin panel using the IP address provided in the manual or on the device itself. Navigate to the firmware section (usually under "Advanced Settings") and check for available updates. Manufacturers regularly release updates to improve functionality, fix bugs, and enhance security. Always follow the update instructions carefully, as incomplete updates can cause issues.  You make changes at your own risk, if unsure seek help from a professional.

Absolutely. Restarting your router clears temporary glitches, refreshes its memory, and re-establishes a clean connection with your ISP. To do this, unplug your router from the power source, wait for 30 seconds to a minute, and then plug it back in. Avoid restarting too frequently, though, as it may interrupt network performance.

Log into your router’s admin panel (refer to your router’s user manual for login details). Look for a list of connected devices—these might be under "Device Management" or "Connected Clients." Identify unfamiliar devices by their IP or MAC addresses. If you see devices you don’t recognise, change your Wi-Fi password immediately and set up WPA3 or WPA2 security for better protection.

This is likely due to network congestion, especially if you’re using a shared connection in a residential or business area. To mitigate this, avoid heavy usage (e.g., streaming or downloading) during peak hours. Schedule automatic updates, backups, or downloads for late at night or early morning when the network is less busy. If possible, contact your ISP to discuss upgrading to a package designed for high-demand users.

Yes, prioritising your devices can help. Log into your router settings and enable the Quality of Service (QoS) feature, if available. This allows you to allocate more bandwidth to essential devices (e.g., your laptop during video calls) over less critical devices (e.g., a smart TV). Additionally, close unnecessary apps or browser tabs on your device to reduce bandwidth usage.

Older devices may not support the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) or Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offer faster speeds and better connectivity. Check the specifications of your devices and your router to ensure compatibility. If your device is older, try connecting it directly to the router with an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection. For Wi-Fi-only devices, updating the network card drivers or upgrading to a newer device may help.