Before you start
- Access to your router settings
Method 1 Improve the router’s reach
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Step 1: Relocate the router
Place it centrally, off the floor (on a shelf), out of cabinets and away from TVs, fish tanks, mirrors, microwaves and thick walls.
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Step 2: Adjust antennas
For external antennas, point some vertically and some horizontally to cover different directions and floors.
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Step 3: Change the channel
In the router settings, try channels 1, 6 or 11 on 2.4 GHz, or let the router pick “Auto” after a restart. A Wi-Fi analyser app shows crowded channels.
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Step 4: Update firmware
Router updates often improve range and stability.
Method 2 Pick the right band
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Step 1: 2.4 GHz for distance
2.4 GHz goes through walls better but is slower and more crowded.
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Step 2: 5 GHz for speed
5 GHz (and 6 GHz on Wi-Fi 6E/7) is much faster but has shorter range.
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Step 3: Band steering
Many routers use one name for both bands and move devices automatically. If far devices struggle, try separate names and connect them to 2.4 GHz.
Method 3 Bring Wi-Fi closer to the room
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Step 1: Mesh Wi-Fi
A mesh system (e.g. TP-Link Deco, Google Nest Wifi, eero, Netgear Orbi) uses 2–3 units to blanket the home with one network. Best overall option.
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Step 2: Powerline adapters
Send internet through your electrical wiring: one adapter by the router, one in the weak room (with Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Works best on the same electrical circuit.
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Step 3: Access point
If you can run an Ethernet cable, a wired access point or mesh node in the room gives full speed.
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Step 4: Range extender
A cheap fix for one room, but often halves speed. Place it halfway, not in the dead zone.
Troubleshooting
The room is weak even close to the router
Check for interference (baby monitors, microwaves, cordless phones) and test another device: the problem might be the device’s Wi-Fi.
Mesh nodes are slow
Move nodes closer together or connect them by Ethernet backhaul if possible.
Frequently asked questions
Do Wi-Fi boosters work?
Extenders/boosters help with coverage but often reduce speed. Mesh or wired access points work better.
Can foil or a tin can boost Wi-Fi?
Reflectors can slightly redirect signal, but moving the router or adding a node helps far more.
Summary
Start with router placement and the right band and channel. If a room is still weak, add mesh Wi-Fi, a powerline adapter or a wired access point; an extender is the budget option.
