Easy Ways to Boost Home Network Speed

So you got that awesome plan from Sky, Globe or PLDT, but it's not exactly as fast as you though it would be?  Here are a few tips to boost that speed and get you out of EDSA-ish network connection. 

1. Put your router in the right place

Some routers can be pretty ugly and make you want to hide them, but they need to be out in the open so they can broadcast freely, away from obstructions. It's best to put it in an elevated central location. keep them away from reflective items like mirrors, windows, stainless steel cabinets and counter tops. 

2. Use the 5Ghz Network

Single band routers use 2.4Ghz network which can be crowded since it's also used by cordless phones, microwaves, wireless monitors, other appliances, as well as your neighbor's WiFi. Upgrade to a dual band router that broadcasts 2 signals: 2.4GHz for browsing, email, and other simple tasks, and 5GHz for video streaming, online gaming and bandwidth intensive tasks. 

3. Update your Firmware

Make sure your router is using the latest firmware, your computer, tablet or phone has the latest update. Don't put those software updates to snooze too long. You can check the latest firmware in the manufacturer's website or in the settings menu of your device. 

4. Unclutter your PC and Devices

We can be junk hogs sometimes. So regularly clean up your PC and devices. Delete unused files and programs that might be taking up precious bandwidth in the background. 

5. Use the Latest WiFi Technology

There's no point in subscribing to a super fast plan if you don't have the tools to take advantage of it. Wireless A, B, G, and N and old router standards. The latest being Wireless AC which can move data faster. So ask your ISP for a Wireless AC router or invest in one. 

6. Who's using all the bandwidth?

Sharing is caring. Maybe you can set video downloads at night while everyone's asleep. Set some schedules for streaming, playing online games, and downloading media. Or you can also give priority to certain tasks or programs in your router's settings. 

7. Restart your Router

The oldest trick in the book. Sometimes restarting really does do wonders. Schedule a reboot daily. You can either do it manually, or get an outlet timer or smart plug to do it automatically. 

8. Cable is Still King!

As much as we all love clutter-free WiFi, connections over ethernet cable is still the fastest and most stable. So we suggest connecting SmartTVs and consoles via cable for better connection. If you don't want to messy cabling, you can look into Powerline adapters that use your home's existing electrical cables. So you don't have to worry about hiding messy wires. 

9. Extend your WiFi Range

Multi-story houses and those with lots of divisions can be pretty tricky. Push your WiFi signal a bit further with range extenders or powerline adapters to make sure all the little nooks in the house are covered. 

Once you'e done a couple of these, you should notice significant improvement in your WiFi speed and connection stability. Happy streaming!