Slow or unstable Wi-Fi connections may have less to do with your internet plan and more to do with where your router is placed at home. According to experts, poor router positioning is one of the most common causes of weak signals, dropped connections and uneven internet coverage.
Wi-Fi routers do not always reach every corner of a house, particularly in larger or multi-storey homes. Physical obstacles such as walls, furniture and appliances can absorb or block radio signals, creating dead zones where internet speeds slow down or connectivity becomes unreliable. In many cases, simply relocating the router can improve performance without the need for an immediate hardware upgrade.
Experts recommend placing routers in an open, central area of the home. This allows Wi-Fi signals to spread more evenly in all directions, improving coverage across rooms and floors.
Routers should be kept away from enclosed spaces such as cabinets or drawers, as well as from thick walls that can obstruct signal strength. Elevating the router on a shelf or table can also help minimise interference from furniture and floors.
Basements are considered one of the worst locations for Wi-Fi routers. These areas are often constructed with dense materials like concrete, which absorb wireless signals. Since basements sit below living spaces, signals struggle to reach upper floors, resulting in weaker connections throughout the home.
Electronic interference is another factor that can affect Wi-Fi performance. Devices such as microwaves, Bluetooth accessories and wireless speakers can disrupt signals, especially on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. While 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands offer faster speeds and less interference, they typically have shorter range and weaker penetration through walls.
For long-term improvements, experts suggest using wired connections where possible or upgrading to newer routers that support multiple frequency bands. Adjusting placement and reducing nearby interference remain among the simplest ways to achieve more reliable Wi-Fi.
