UK Broadband Speed Test

To enhance your WiFi speed, start by determining whether the issue lies with your wireless connection or your overall broadband speed. Begin by connecting your device to the router using a wired Ethernet connection and running a speed test. This provides a more accurate measure of your broadband performance. If the speed is satisfactory, repeat the test over a wireless connection. For the most reliable results, conduct this test close to the router (within 5 metres), with a clear line of sight and no obstacles such as doors or staircases. If the wireless speed is significantly lower than the wired speed, the issue is likely due to interference or physical obstructions as you move around your home.

The placement of your router is crucial, as different materials can impact WiFi signals to varying degrees. Standard glass, wood, and fabric cause minimal interference, while brick is a medium-level obstacle. Plaster, concrete, and energy-saving low-emission or bullet-proof glass are particularly difficult for WiFi signals to penetrate. Metal objects should be avoided entirely. Bear in mind that internal walls may include foil-backed plasterboard, and cement board is often used in bathrooms or wetrooms, both of which can block signals effectively.

The position of your router significantly affects its performance. Most basic routers feature omnidirectional antennas, providing 360-degree coverage. Placing the router centrally within your home helps reduce dead spots and ensures more consistent coverage.

The most common source of WiFi interference is other networks. Your router’s default channel might overlap with those of your neighbours, causing signal disruption. Changing the router's channel can resolve this issue. On the 2.4GHz band, channels 1, 6, and 11 are usually the best options. Many modern routers, such as the BT Smart Hub 2, perform an automatic WiFi scan during setup or after a factory reset to minimise channel overlap.

Other sources of interference include fluorescent lights, wireless video cameras, cordless phones, microwave ovens, WiFi-enabled printers, and baby monitors. These devices also operate on the 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency bands. A high-quality dual-band router transmits on both frequencies simultaneously, allowing you to connect some devices to the less congested 5GHz band. Note that while 5GHz may be supported by your router, it might need to be enabled manually. Refer to your router’s user guide for configuration instructions.

The 2.4GHz frequency band is widely used and reliable, but it often suffers from congestion due to its popularity. The 5GHz band, introduced to address this issue, offers faster data transfer speeds and is less prone to interference. However, it is less effective at penetrating walls and obstacles and has a shorter range.

If you need to extend your WiFi signal to areas like a garden shed, try using the 2.4GHz band first, as it provides better coverage over longer distances.