Currently internet service providers are under increased pressure now that the UK has been told to “stay at home”, but what does this mean for the many that have chosen to work from home? We’ve come up with a few tips to help you get the best out of your Wi-Fi.
1. Lower demands on your connection
The more devices attached to your Wi-Fi, the lower the speed you get.
2. Stick to Audio calls
If you’re carrying out video calls or meetings, turning the video off and using audio will require much less of your internet connection.
3. Turn Wi-Fi off on unused devices
Devices such as smartphones and tablets often have background apps running, try switching the Wi-Fi off on these devices when you’re not using them.
4. Ensure you are not working in a Wi-Fi black spot
A Wi-Fi black spot is often an area that is too far away from the router or separated by thick walls which results in a slow connection. A simple solution to this is to work in a different room, closer to your internet router. However, just opening the door in the room you're working in could help improve your connection. Alternatively using a Wi-Fi booster can improve your coverage, click here to shop Wi-Fi boosters at Argos.
5. Avoid internet rush hour
Internet rush hour is the time period when the majority of Internet users are online at the same time. Typically, in the UK the peak hours are between 7 and 11 pm. During this time frame, users commonly experience slowness while browsing or downloading content.
6. Find the best spot for your router
Try to keep your router in an open location, out of cabinets and avoiding any obstructions. Ensure it is as far away as possible from other devices that operate wirelessly, but also cordless phones, baby monitors, halogen lamps, dimmer switches, stereos and computer speakers, TVs and monitors as these can also interfere with router signals.
Network operators in the UK have reported significant jumps in traffic however, the good news is Internet service providers (ISPs) say they have contingency plans in place and that the network can deal with the extra daytime demand.