How to Improve Your WiFi
Getting slow speeds on WiFi but fast on ethernet? Your internet is fine – it’s your WiFi that needs help. Here’s how to optimise it.
Quick test: Connect a device to your modem with an ethernet cable and run a speed test. If ethernet is fast but WiFi is slow, the issue is your WiFi setup, not your internet connection.
1. Router Placement (The Biggest Factor!)
Where you put your router has the biggest impact on WiFi performance.
DO:
- Place it in a central location in your home
- Keep it elevated (on a shelf or table, not on the floor)
- Position it in an open area
- Keep antennas vertical (if external)
DON’T:
- Hide it in a cupboard or cabinet
- Place it near a window (signal goes outside)
- Put it near metal objects, mirrors, or fish tanks
- Keep it near microwaves, baby monitors, or cordless phones
2. Understand WiFi Bands (2.4GHz vs 5GHz)
Modern routers broadcast on two frequency bands. Each has pros and cons:
| Band | Speed | Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | Slower | Better (goes through walls) | Smart home devices, IoT, far rooms |
| 5 GHz | Faster | Shorter | Streaming, gaming, devices near router |
Tip: If your router shows separate networks (e.g., “MyWiFi” and “MyWiFi_5G”), use 5GHz for devices that need speed and are close to the router, and 2.4GHz for devices further away.
3. Reduce Interference
WiFi signals can be disrupted by other devices and your neighbours’ WiFi networks.
Common Sources of Interference:
- Neighbours’ WiFi – Especially in apartments
- Microwave ovens – Interfere with 2.4GHz
- Cordless phones – Older models use 2.4GHz
- Baby monitors
- Bluetooth devices
- Thick walls – Especially brick, concrete, or metal
Change Your WiFi Channel
If you’re in an area with many WiFi networks, changing your router’s channel can reduce interference:
- Log into your router’s admin panel (usually
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1) - Find the WiFi or Wireless settings
- Change the channel to 1, 6, or 11 (for 2.4GHz) – these don’t overlap
- For 5GHz, “Auto” usually works well
4. Consider Mesh WiFi for Larger Homes
If you have a larger home (3+ bedrooms) or a multi-storey house, a single router may not cover everywhere. A mesh WiFi system uses multiple units to blanket your home in consistent coverage.
GoTroppo Mesh Modem
Our TP-Link HX510 Mesh Modem is designed for larger homes. You can add extra mesh units to extend coverage throughout your home – all using the same WiFi network name, so your devices seamlessly switch as you move around.
5. Use Ethernet Where Possible
For devices that don’t move and need reliable, fast connections, use ethernet cables:
- Smart TVs (for 4K streaming)
- Gaming consoles
- Desktop computers
- Work-from-home setups
Tip: Use Cat5e or Cat6 ethernet cables. Older Cat5 cables max out at 100Mbps and can bottleneck your connection.
6. Update Your Router’s Firmware
Router manufacturers release updates that can improve performance and fix bugs:
- Log into your router’s admin panel
- Look for “Firmware Update” or “System Update”
- If an update is available, install it
For GoTroppo modems, you can also use the Aginet app to check for updates:
7. Secure Your Network
An unsecured network or weak password means neighbours might be using your WiFi, slowing it down:
- Use WPA3 or WPA2 security (not WEP)
- Create a strong password (12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, symbols)
- Check connected devices in your router’s admin panel for unknown devices
Quick WiFi Improvement Checklist
- Router is in a central, elevated, open location
- Router is away from microwaves and other interference
- Using 5GHz band for fast devices near the router
- Important devices connected via ethernet
- Router firmware is up to date
- Network is secured with a strong password
- Consider mesh WiFi if home is large or multi-storey
Still Having WiFi Issues?
If you’ve tried the above and still have problems, contact our support team. We can help diagnose the issue and recommend solutions.