Is Wi-Fi slow? Never bring the router close to 5 (common) household objects, they weaken the signal

Even with a fast connection, Wi‑Fi may struggle to reach some rooms. The problem is not always the power of the router, but where and how the signal should propagate. Slow Wi‑Fi is extremely frustrating, especially when trying to stream movies or work from home. The location of the router is often the most important element in improving its performance.

An expert quoted by the Express explains that the power and coverage of Wi‑Fi are «strongly influenced by where the router is positioned», therefore it is essential not to place it near five common household appliances which can hinder the signal.

1. Microwave oven

Microwave ovens interfere with Wi‑Fi because they operate on the same frequency as 2.4 GHz signals.

Likewise, devices such as cordless phones, baby monitors and Bluetooth gadgets can disturb the connection.

Practical advice: Place the router away from the kitchen or microwave that is running, especially if you use Wi‑Fi for streaming or video lessons.

2. Refrigerators and large metal appliances

Avoid placing the router near thick walls, metal surfaces, or large electronic devices such as TVs and refrigerators, as they can absorb or block the signal. Metallic appliances can reflect or absorb radio waves, reducing the range of Wi‑Fi in distant rooms.

Practical advice: Keep the router away from refrigerators, freezers, or dishwashers.

3. Telephone cordless

Cordless phones often share frequencies with Wi‑Fi, causing possible interference.

Practical advice: Separate your router and cordless phone, or consider using phones that operate on frequencies other than Wi‑Fi.

4. Dispositivi Bluetooth e smart speaker

Bluetooth speakers and other wireless devices compete for the same frequency bands as Wi‑Fi, jamming the signal.

Practical advice: Keep your router and Bluetooth devices separate to ensure a stable connection.

5. TV, baby monitors and physical obstacles

Large screens and baby monitors can reduce the quality of the signal, while thick walls, mirrors or aquariums reflect or absorb it. While it may be tempting to hide your router in a closet or behind furniture for aesthetic reasons, doing so can drastically reduce performance.

Practical advice: position the router centrally, elevated and in an open position, as if it were a lamp illuminating the room.

How many showers after age 65? Neither one a day, nor one every seven (skin changes after 30)

Extra tips

If Wi‑Fi still doesn’t reach some areas:

1. Upgrade to a modern router and high-end can greatly improve coverage and speed.
2. Wi‑Fi extenders work by retransmitting router signal to reach greater distances, while mesh systems use multiple devices that communicate with each other creating a uniform wireless network that covers your entire home and garden.

These solutions work best when the existing signal is already decent, but can help cover distant rooms or gardens.