Why is my WiFi slow or dropping out?

It's frustrating when Netflix keeps buffering due to WiFi slow speeds or dropouts. WiFi Interference may be a likely cause. This guide will help you troubleshoot common WiFi problems. All routers operate on the 2.4GHz frequency. There are also dual band routers boasting an additional 5.0GHz frequency. To learn which frequency is best for you, check out our page on What is WiFi?

Why is my WiFi slow?

Radio waves often experience interference that can disrupt your connection. Interference can cause slow speeds and dropouts. The 2.4GHz frequency is often disrupted by other appliances. Consequently, this can even include your neighbour’s wifi. Appliances that have the potential to interfere are microwaves, baby monitors, radio controlled cars, cordless phone handsets & bases, and security cameras. This is because they also operate on the 2.4GHz frequency.  As a result, even your neighbour fixing popcorn in the microwave can make your Netflix movie buffer. WiFi interference can appear even if nothing has changed in your home.

Can I do anything about Slow WiFi?

Yes, you certainly can. First of all, we need to pinpoint the source of the interference. Doors, walls, and distance all can also negatively impact your connection. If your WiFi works fine near the router, then a device such as a WiFi Extender may be the solution. WiFi extenders are exactly as they sound. They extend the range of the WiFi by plugging into a power outlet. They are fairly simple to set up.

If range isn't the problem, then it maybe interference. There are two ways you can try to fix this problem. The first way would be to directly connect your devices by installing ethernet cables throughout your home. If this isn't possible, or your devices cannot be directly connected with a cable, then you will need to log into your router. The steps below may help to assist you with logging into your router.

Open a browser window, enter the following IP:

Asus: 192.168.1.1

D-Link: 192.168.0.1 or http://dlinkrouter or 192.168.1.1

Fritzbox: 192.168.178.1

Huawei: 192.168.1.1

Netcomm: 192.168.20.1

Netgear: 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 or http://www.routerlogin.com

Sagemcom F@st: 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1 or 10.1.1.1

Technicolor: 192.168.1.254

TP-Link: 192.168.1.1 or http://tplinkwifi.net

Go to Wireless Settings, then look for channel settings. Sometimes this is located in basic settings, or it maybe under advanced.

The best 2.4GHz channel recommendations are 1, 5, 9, 13*.

Note: Some devices such as some Amazon devices may not support the use of channel 13, for these devices the channels 1, 6, or 11 is recommended.

For 5.0GHz it's not advised to go over 58/80. Apple devices cannot see higher WiFi channels.

WiFi troubleshooting certainly requires investigation. However, It's not impossible to solve. Above all, if you need any assistance, our Customer Service Team can help.