5 ways to IMPROVE YOUR WI-FI

Twiddling your thumbs while web pages load and frustrated you’re not getting the internet speed you’re paying for? Use these tips to get your wi-fi in shape.

Don’t tuck your router away

behind the TV or in a cupboard; position it out in the open and up, away from the floor. Cordless phones, microwaves and baby monitors can all interfere with your wi-fi, so make sure they’re not positioned nearby.

Plug the router into the ‘master’ phone socket

where the telephone cable enters your home.

Download the Wifi Analyzer app

(free, Google Android, Windows 10) to a device connected to your wireless network and use it to find the best channel for your wi-fi (there are 13 channels your router can use but they can become crowded over time). There’s no equivalent for Apple devices, unfortunately. Check your broadband provider’s website for instructions on how to change the channel. You’ll probably need the router’s web address – it will look something like ‘http://192.168.92.3’ and is usually printed on the bottom of the router.

Check your provider’s speed guarantee.

BT, Sky and Vodafone offer a guaranteed minimum broadband speed. If they can’t speed up your broadband, you’ll be eligible for compensation. Check your provider’s website for more information.

Upgrade your tech

if you’re struggling with slow broadband in certain rooms of your house. Swapping your router for a whole-home wi-fi system (with access points you can dot around) could improve your wi-fi coverage. We rate the Netgear Orbi Voice (82/100, £248.37, Amazon), which extended the range of our wi-fi network to the bottom of a 50ft garden in our tests. For more whole-home wi-fi system reviews, go to goodhousekeeping.com/uk/ best-whole-home-wi-fi.