We all want faster and more reliable broadband but your Internet Service Provider (ISP) might not always be to blame when things suddenly grind to a halt. The little black Wi-Fi box that endlessly flashes at you throughout the day is vital for a speedy connection and there are some pretty simple errors that will make your streaming stutter and downloads feel dismal.
In fact, simply moving your router to another part of the house or giving it a quick reboot can solve a number of issues. There's also that dreaded temptation to switch things off which is a really bad idea. So, if your broadband isn't up to scratch here are 5 common mistakes to avoid and tips to speed things back up again.
MOVE YOUR ROUTER
If your router is placed in the kitchen - or sat on the floor in the hallway - then it's time to move it. The position of this web browsing device is vital if you want better speeds and there are some pretty common errors to avoid.
Kitchens, for example, are full of metal objects - and gadgets such as microwave ovens - which can all interfere with the signal that belts out of the antennas. This is officially the worst room for your internet box it's best avoided at all costs.
Placing this technology on the floor is also a bad idea and the higher up you can position it the stronger the signal that will blast around the home.
Moving a router can sometimes be tricky but if your speeds are really suffering it's worth giving it a try.
DON'T SWITCH IT OFF
With electricity bills still sky-high it can be tempting to switch things off but don't touch the power button. Most of the UK's biggest ISPs, including BT and Sky, recommend leaving their Wi-Fi equipment on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
There are a few reasons why following this advice is a good idea. Firstly, endlessly switching off the router and then turning it back on again can send bad signals to your provider that there is a fault on the line. When this happens, ISPs can place an emergency speed restriction on the service to make sure the customer stays connected.
"Constantly switching off the hub makes the line look unstable, meaning that your speed may be automatically reduced to improve the reliability of your broadband connection," explains BT.
The next vital reason to leave it on when heading to bed is that vital security updates might not be received during the night. Many ISPs release upgrades when most people aren't using their Wi-Fi and if your box is switched off it won't get these important security updates.
"We know our routers are put through their paces during the day – whether on video calls, streaming the latest show, or online gaming," said Aman Bhatti, Director of Propositions, Sky Broadband. "That’s why our routers run firmware updates during the night, to avoid any unnecessary disruption during the day.
"Switching off your router overnight can affect automatic software updates and optimisations which in turn can impact the overall performance, speed and stability of your Broadband."
BE WARY OF FISH
If you have a house full of aquatic pets it's best to keep the Wi-Fi away from water. Signals really struggle to pass through fish tanks and having the black box right next to aquariums will mean less reliable speeds.
DON'T HIDE YOUR ROUTER
Yes, your router and all of those wires that stick out the back of it are ugly but stuffing the Wi-Fi box inside a cabinet or behind the telly won't do your downloads any good. It's another common mistake and definitely one to avoid.
Most ISPs recommend leaving their routers out in the open and away from other tech - including baby monitors - as this can disrupt the signal.
Don't forget that you can buy boosters which will also help the internet get to the deepest darkest corners of your home.
GIVE IT A REBOOT
It's an old trick but once in a while it's a good idea to switch off your router and turn it back on again. A quick reboot can clear issues and get things back up to speed again.
Just be aware that it can take up to five minutes for a reboot to take place so only begin if you know nobody needs to make an urgent call to the office.
