Why is my Wi-Fi patchy? Common causes and how to fix them
Updated: Oct 5
Wi-Fi that works in one room and drops out in the next is one of the most common problems we are asked to fix. The good news is that it is rarely your broadband. In most cases the problem is how the Wi-Fi is delivered around the building.
1. One router trying to cover everything
The router your provider sent is usually tucked away by the front door or in a cupboard. Its signal has to travel through walls, floors and furniture, and it gets weaker every time. In larger homes and most offices, one box simply cannot cover the whole space.
2. Thick walls and building materials
Brick, concrete, plasterboard with foil backing, underfloor heating and even mirrors all absorb or reflect Wi-Fi. Older properties with solid walls and modern buildings with lots of metal are both hard for Wi-Fi.
3. Too many devices on one access point
Phones, laptops, TVs, cameras and smart devices all compete for the same airtime. When one access point is serving dozens of devices, everyone slows down.
4. Wireless extenders and mesh with no cable
Plug-in extenders and wireless mesh can help, but they pass the signal on wirelessly, so each hop loses speed. They are a good fallback where cabling is not possible, but they are not the most reliable fix.
The fix that lasts: cabled access points
The most reliable solution is a small number of access points, placed where they are needed and each connected back by a proper data cable. This gives:
Strong coverage in every room, floor and outdoor area.
Full speed at every access point, because nothing is relayed wirelessly.
Smooth roaming as you move around, with no dropping between units.
Separate, secure networks for staff and guests.
How we approach it
We start with a free site survey to see where coverage is weak and why. We then plan where access points should go, run the cabling neatly, install and configure the access points, and test coverage before we leave.
Fed up with dead spots? See our wireless network solutions or ask for a free survey. If the problem is dropouts on wired connections too, our fault diagnosis and repairs service can track it down.
Comments