Wrong router placement makes Wi-Fi weak

Bad Wi-Fi, weak waves, and slow speeds are not only caused by problems with your router or service plan. In most cases, your belongings can also be the reason for preventing your device's ability to connect to Wi-Fi.

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1. Metal surface and interior.

Metal is a conductor of electricity and is capable of absorbing electricity. Because Wi-Fi transmits electromagnetic waves, any metal surface or object in your home can prevent the waves from spreading. If you want the most stable Internet connection, you need to keep your router away from metal.

2. Brick and stone walls.

Certain wall materials can block Wi-Fi signals, typically marble, cement, concrete, plaster, and brick. This is why the Internet signal is often weaker than in multi-story homes.

3. Mirror.

The mirror coating acts as a shield, causing the Internet connection to be bounced back. When placed near the router, the mirror will cause the Wi-Fi signal strength to be worse and function unstable.

4. Refrigerator and washing machine.

As a general rule, electrical appliances with water pipes aren't 'friendly' to Wi-Fi signals. Water can retain some of the energy from wireless waves, negatively affecting the quality of the Internet connection.

5. String lights.

Chips sparkling from string lights that create a magnetic field that interacts with the router's electromagnetic waves. Therefore, users should place this device away from string lights in decorative occasions.

6. Child monitoring equipment.

These devices also generate a 2.4 GHz band similar to Wi-Fi, which may interfere with network waves. While child monitoring devices need a Wi-Fi connection to work, you shouldn't place them too close to the router.

7. Drone.

Similar to a child tracking device, the drone operates on the 2.4 GHz band. However, not all flying devices can cause interference with Wi-Fi. This depends on the broadcast power of the devices.

8. Microwave.

This is another device that shares the same frequency spectrum as Wi-Fi. To limit the negative influence of microwave oven, users should place the router in a higher position than the microwave oven.

Marvin Fry

Update 13 March 2021