9 ways to boost your Wi-Fi signal

Does your Wi-Fi signal need a boost?

These days, most of us are using Wi-Fi in our homes to access the internet, stream our favorite movies and television shows, and connect our smart devices. In fact, according to a recent study 76% of North Americans who access broadband use Wi-Fi as their primary connection technology.

9 tips for getting a stronger Wi-Fi signal

While it’s tough to beat the convenience of Wi-Fi for staying connected, it can be frustrating when the signal is lacking. And the more devices we connect, the bigger that issue becomes. In this article, we’ll go over some ways you might be able to improve the Wi-Fi signal in your home.

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1. Try rebooting your modem and router

Let’s start with perhaps the simplest thing you can do to try to improve your Wi-Fi signal strength. In the same way that restarting your computer can clear up issues with its performance, rebooting your modem and wireless router could be the remedy for a weak Wi-Fi signal.

As with anything technical, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it, so make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and check the tips here.

2. Find the best spot for your router

The next thing to consider when you’re trying to optimize your Wi-Fi signal is where you place your router. In general, the further your router is away from the devices that are connected to its signal, the weaker that signal is going to be.

Ideally, you’ll want to place your router in a central location in your home so you’re never too far from it even if you’re moving about with your mobile devices. If you primarily using Wi-Fi for streaming to televisions in your home, you’ll benefit from the router being closer to those TVs.

Other things that can help are making sure the router is elevated and that it’s not surrounded by other electronic devices.

Most people know that when a new version of their computer’s operating system is released, it’s wise to update the computer in order to patch security holes and get the best performance. The same goes for your router.

If you’ve never updated your router’s firmware, that might explain issues you’re having with your Wi-Fi signal. The process for doing the update will vary from router to router, but in general you should be able to visit the website of the manufacturer of your router and get instructions for updating there. This article goes into a bit more detail about what the process involves.

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4. Make sure your signal is locked down

Making sure your wireless network is secure is not only crucial to protecting yourself from malicious activity, it can also ensure that no one is stealing your precious bandwidth. If neighbors or even just passersby are using your signal, that means there’s less there for you.

Here are 11 keys to keeping your home Wi-Fi network safe and secure.

5. Make sure you’re on a clear channel

If you live in a densely populated area, your Wi-Fi signal could be suffering from congestion. Much like radios and televisions, routers operate on channels. If you and your neighbors are trying to use the same channel, everyone’s performance can suffer.

Most routers are set up to automatically use the clearest channel available, but not all. Check your router’s administration interface to see if yours is on automatic. If it’s not and that option is available, select it. If your router doesn’t have that option, you’ll need to change the channel manually. PCMag has more information on how to do that.

6. See if there are apps hogging your bandwidth

Different applications use different amounts of bandwidth, and if you’ve got multiple apps running that are bandwidth hogs your overall performance is going to suffer.

Most routers come with something called Quality of Service (QoS) tools that can help you limit the amount of bandwidth different apps use. You can use these tools to prioritize certain apps over others. So, for example, if you want to make sure your streaming of the big game isn’t interrupted because your kids are playing games online you would give your streaming service a higher priority than their device’s browser.

7. Use 5GHz at short ranges

If you have a “dual band” router, you have the option of using either the 2.4GHz band or the 5GHz band. In general, you will get better performance if you select 5GHz because it’s less commonly used and there will be less interference.

The caveat here is that the 5GHz signal doesn’t travel as far and doesn’t fare as well with obstructions as the 2.4GHz band does, so it isn’t a great option for devices that are located far away (or many walls away) from the router. You can learn more about the differences between the 2.4 and 5GHz bands here.

8. Get a repeater/booster/extender

Another thing to consider if you find yourself with a consistently weak Wi-Fi signal is buying a product that will give that signal a leg up. These devices go by the names “repeater,” “booster” or “extender” but they all basically do the same thing: take your Wi-Fi signal, amplify it and then send it out again from a different location.

These are relatively inexpensive and can be particularly useful in larger homes or places where there are a lot of obstructions. This site has a good roundup of the best ones available right now.

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9. Consider a mesh-based system

Finally, a more expensive but more thorough option is to invest in a wireless mesh router system. Money expert Clark Howard is a big proponent of these sets of devices that you place throughout your home, essentially ensuring that your Wi-Fi signal is that same strength no matter what room you’re in.

Luma and eero are a couple of the big players in this market, but be prepared to shell out $200-$300 for a system that will cover a larger home. Of course, that’s money well spent if you never want to worry about having a weak Wi-Fi signal again.

Final thought

Everyone’s Wi-Fi situation is different, so there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for dealing with a weak signal. If you’re having issues, start with some of the free solutions above to see if they lead to improvement. If nothing seems to work, only then should you consider shelling out more money for a repeater or mesh system.

More stories you might enjoy from Clark.com:

11 keys to keeping your home Wi-Fi network safe and secure

Many people buy a wireless router, bring it home, plug it in, connect and then forget about their Wi-Fi network.

When you fail to secure your wireless network, not only can someone connect and use your network for illegal or malicious activities, they can also steal private information like user names, passwords, bank account information, social security numbers and other personal information you have stored on your computers and devices.

Take a few minutes to secure your wireless network to ensure your safety.

How to secure your home wireless network

1. Change your router password

Each router comes with a default password that allows you to log into the router. Change the password when you install the router and then change it again every few months.

Choose a strong password that is at least 8 characters long, the more the better. Use a combination of numbers, upper and lower case letters and symbols.

2. Disable remote administration

Remote administration allows you to log into the router remotely via the internet and make setting changes to the router. Most users never use this feature and unless you do use it, remote administration should be disabled.

3. Change your SSID

The SSID, short for Service Set Identifier, is the name of the wireless network. All routers have a default SSID. You must know the SSID to connect to a wireless network.

If there are several wireless networks in range and they have the same SSID, it can be confusing when trying to figure out which network is yours. Changing the SSID also adds a bit of security. If a hacker knows the brand of router you have based on the default SSID name, they are better able to know what vulnerabilities that particular brand of router has.

They can then use that information to potentially break into your network. When you change the default SSID, choose an SSID that is random. Do not use your name, address or any other personal information when creating the SSID.

Consider changing the SSID a few times a year.

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4. Disable SSID Broadcast

The SSID of the router is broadcast to anyone within range of your wireless network. That means your neighbors and anyone close to the router can see your wireless network.

You want to disable SSID broadcast after you have setup and configured your router and successfully connected your computers and other devices to the router the first time. After you disable the SSID broadcast people looking at their list of available wireless networks will no longer see your network listed.

Disabling the SSID is not a strong security measure in itself but combined with other security actions, it adds an additional layer of security.

5. Use MAC filtering

MAC filtering allows you to specify which devices are allowed and not allowed to connect to your network. Each network card has a specific media access control address (MAC address) and no two hardware devices use the same MAC address.

A MAC address consists of six pairs of numbers separated by a colon. Wireless routers have a setting called MAC filtering. Using MAC filtering you can log into your router and enter the MAC addresses of the devices you would like to allow to connect to your wireless network. All other devices will be locked out.

You can also block specific MAC addresses from connecting to your router. Some hackers have mimicked MAC addresses, so don’t rely on this alone.

6. Use encryption

Encryption encodes the data transmitted between your computer and other devices and your wireless router. Use the strongest type of encryption your router supports. Choose a strong, unique preshared key/passphrase. This key will be used by anyone who is connecting to your wireless network. As with any other key or password, choose one that is at least 8 characters long and is a combination of numbers, upper and lower case letters and symbols. Change the key a few times a year.

7. Disable Wireless Protected Setup

If your router offers Wireless Protect Setup (WPS) it is best to disable that feature. Hackers have found a way to exploit the PIN feature to get your password.

Wi-Fi protected setup allows you to connect devices to the router using a PIN or Push Button Connect. Using the PIN option, you enter the PIN number on your device to connect. Push Button Connect lets you push a button on the router or click a button while logged into the router and for a limited amount of time a device within range can connect. This allows devices to connect without knowing the passphrase.

8. Pay attention to device lists

Most routers have a device list feature. You can view the list to see what devices are currently connected to your router. You should occasionally review the list and make sure only devices you use are connecting.

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9. Be careful with guest access

Most routers have a guest access option. This feature allows guests to connect to your router. If you do not use guest access turn it off.

If you do have guests that need wireless access, use this feature. This gives them access to Wi-Fi without allowing them access to your network: things like shared files and folders, shared printers and other sensitive network information.

Some routers also allow you to restrict how much bandwidth a guest is permitted to use. Choose a secure preshared key/passphrase for guest access and change it often.

10. Consider unplugging your router at night or when you are away

A router cannot be compromised if it is disconnected. Consider unplugging your router when you leave the house for the day, leave for vacation or when you are done using it for the day. This will prevent any malicious activity. It could also prevent a power surge and save money on your electric bill.

11. Keep your router software updated

The software that is installed on your router is called firmware. Manufacturers will release firmware updates to improve performance and to address bugs and security issues. Check for updates a few times a year.

You can check for firmware updates by logging into the router. Most have a tab that allows you to check for updates from that page. You can also go directly to the manufacturers website and download the updates.

Final thought

If all this seems overwhelming, don’t let it intimidate you. It’s really very simple.

You can change the settings on your router using the software provided with the router or by using a web browser on your computer.

Taking the time to properly set up, configure and maintain your home network is important and the minimal effort is more than worth the peace of mind it provides.

More stories you might enjoy from Clark.com:

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Best live TV streaming services: Compare our top picks for August 2019

Are you paying more than $100 a month for cable or satellite TV service? You may be able to cut that bill in half by switching to one of several popular live TV streaming services.

YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, PlayStation Vue, and DirecTV Now (AT&T TV Now) are five of the top options for cord cutters.

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Best streaming TV services: YouTube TV, PlayStation Vue, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, DirecTV Now

As you look at an average pay TV bill of over $100 a month, you can instead go with streaming services that typically will run you from a base of $20 a month for a bare-bones streaming package to a more common $50 a month.

Here are the major live TV streaming services available right now, starting with the cheapest options:

The best part? Instead of being married to your own sofa and TV, these streaming services allow you to watch from anywhere — on your phone, computer or TV.

A cable box or satellite dish isn’t required to stream TV, but there are a few things you’ll need:

• High-speed internet service: Requirements vary by provider, but a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps or higher is generally recommended for a high-quality streaming experience. (Check your current download speed)
• Smart TV or compatible streaming device: Although no cable box is required, you may need to buy a streaming device (Google Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Fire TV) to play content on your TV.
• Digital antenna: You can pick up a digital antenna for $10 to $40 if your live TV streaming package doesn’t include your favorite local channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and PBS.

First-time streamer? Start with our step-by-step guide to cutting the cord!

Team Clark has tested all of the major live TV streaming services. Some of the key differences are price, channel lineup, DVR, supported devices and the ability to watch multiple streams at once.

“My favorite of all the streaming products is YouTube TV. It has a pretty wide array of television programming, but what’s really neat is that multiple people could be watching different things at the same time and everybody has an unlimited DVR,” says money expert Clark Howard.

Ready to lower your pay TV bill once and for all? We’re going to review the pros and cons of the major live TV streaming services, starting with Clark’s personal favorite…

YouTube TV

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YouTube TV Review Summary: Overall, YouTube TV is Clark’s favorite live TV streaming service. For $50 a month, you get 70+ networks, including local sports and news. The channel lineup features sports networks like ESPN, Fox Sports 1 & 2, BTN and SEC Network. Eight entertainment networks from Discovery (HGTV, Food Network, TLC and more) were added in April 2019. YouTube TV offers unlimited DVR and allows up to three simultaneous streams. Support for Amazon Fire TV devices is coming later in 2019. (Full review)

• Price: One single plan for $50 per month
• Channels: Heavy on sports and and lighter on entertainment networks. Added in April 2019: Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Investigation Discovery, Animal Planet, Travel Channel and MotorTrend. (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: Record as many programs as you want at the same time and never run out of storage space
• Supported devices for TV include:  
  • Apple TV, 4th generation & 4K
  • Google Chromecast & Chromecast Ultra
  • Roku Players & TVs
  • Xbox One, Xbox One S & Xbox One X
• Multiple streams: Up to three separate devices at the same time
• Internet speed: At least 7 Mbps to stream one High Definition (HD) video; 13 Mbps to reliably stream HD video, even with other devices using the same network
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

YouTube TV: Pros and cons 

Pros Cons One simple plan for $50/month Price increased from $40 to $50 per month in April 2019 Lots of sports: ESPN, FS1, FS2, MLB Network, NBA TV and more Amazon Fire TV not a supported device Discovery-owned networks like HGTV, Food Network and TLC added in April 2019 Unlimited DVR

Related YouTube TV content on Clark.com:

Hulu + Live TV

Hulu + Live TV Review Summary: Hulu with Live TV’s channel lineup offers a mix of sports, news, entertainment and local channels in many cities. The live TV service also provides access to Hulu’s entire on-demand streaming library for a base price of $44.99 per month. Cloud DVR is limited to 50 hours and you can stream two screens at a time, but there are options to upgrade both features. Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast are among Hulu + Live TV’s supported devices. (Full review)

• Price: $44.99 per month and up
• Channels: Access Hulu’s entire streaming library, plus get channels like A&E, Bravo, Discovery, Disney, E!, ESPN, FS1, FS2, Food Network, HGTV, History and more (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: 50 hours of cloud DVR storage included; additional charge to upgrade to 200 hours
• Supported devices for TV include:  
  • Amazon Fire TV and Fire TV Stick
  • Apple TV, 4th generation or later
  • Google Chromecast
  • Roku and Roku Stick, select models
  • Nintendo Switch
  • Xbox 360
  • Xbox One
• Multiple streams: Watch videos simultaneously on up to two screens
• Internet speed: 8 Mbps or higher for a reliable, high-quality viewing experience; multiple concurrent streams may require higher bandwidth
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

Hulu with Live TV: Pros and cons

Pros  Cons One simple plan for $45/month Expensive add-ons Hulu’s on-demand streaming library included Must upgrade DVR to fast-forward through commercials 50 hours of cloud DVR storage Only two screens at once

Team Clark Review: 4 things to know about Hulu’s live TV streaming service

Sling TV

Sling TV Review Summary: Sling TV has two skinny bundles (Sling Orange and Sling Blue) that cost $25 per month each, but you can combine them and pay $40 a month. Sling Orange is the cheapest way to get ESPN. Cloud DVR is not included, but you can pay an extra $5/month for it. Sling Orange allows for only one stream at a time, while Sling Blue allows for three. Many streaming devices are supported. Local channels are limited with Sling TV’s plans, so it’s best to have a digital antenna if you choose this service. (Full review) 

• Price: $25 per month for Sling Orange (up from $20), $25 for Sling Blue, $40 for Sling Orange + Blue
• Channels: Sling Orange offers 30+ channels including ESPN, Disney, AMC, CNN and HGTV; Sling Blue offers 40+ channels like Discovery, TLC, NFL Network and FX (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: 50 hours of storage for an extra $5 per month
• Supported devices for TV include:  
  • Apple TV (4th generation or later)
  • Amazon Fire TV
  • Google Chromecast
  • Roku LT and higher
  • AirTV Player
  • Xbox One
• Multiple streams: One stream at a time with Sling Orange, three streams at a time with Sling Blue, four streams at once with Sling Orange + Blue
• Internet speed: 5 Mbps for a single stream of video content on a TV, PC or Mac; 25 Mbps for households that maintain internet use on multiple devices
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

Sling TV: Pros and cons

Pros Cons Packages start at $25 per month; cheapest way to get ESPN Limited local channels Lots of compatible devices Cloud DVR costs extra Affordable add-on channel options starting at $5/month Only one stream at a time with Sling Orange

Team Clark Review: 5 things to know before you sign up for Sling TV

PlayStation Vue

PlayStation Vue Review Summary: Despite its name, you don’t need a PlayStation console to sign up for PlayStation Vue. This streaming TV service starts at $49.99 per month after a July 2019 price hike. It offers a variety of sports, news and lifestyle networks: AMC, CNN, Disney, ESPN, HGTV and more are included. Local channels are available in many locations. Programming saved to DVR can be accessed for 28 days and the service can be used on up to five devices at a given time. Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Google Chromecast are among PlayStation Vue’s supported devices. (Full review) 

• Price: $49.99 for “Access” plan
• Channels: Watch more than 45 networks like ESPN, Disney, Bravo, Cartoon Network, Food Network, Fox Sports, OWN and HGTV (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: Programming saved to DVR in “My Shows” can be watched in and out of your home network; stored for up to 28 days
• Supported devices for TV include: 
  • Amazon Fire TV, all gens
  • Apple TV, 4th generation running tvOS 11.0 and up
  • Google Chromecast, 1st generation and up)
  • Roku players, firmware 7.7 and up
  • PlayStation 4 consoles
  • PlayStation 3 consoles
• Multiple streams: Up to five devices at the same time
• Internet speed: Minimum of 10 Mbps or higher is recommended for the best experience, plus 5 Mbps for each additional stream
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

PlayStation Vue: Pros and cons

Pros Cons Up to 5 devices at the same time Base plan is more expensive than most competitors Cloud DVR included Free trial is only 5 days (others are typically 7) Many supported devices

Team Clark Review: 4 things to know about PlayStation Vue

DirecTV Now (AT&T TV Now) 

DirecTV Now Review Summary: DirecTV Now, which is being rebranded as AT&T TV Now, had arguably the best channel lineup until it revamped its streaming plans in early 2019. Now, its cheapest plan starts at $50 per month and includes fewer channels than its competitors. What makes DirecTV Now different is that it includes HBO, which is $15/month as a standalone subscription. You get 20 hours of cloud DVR and two simultaneous streams are allowed. Most streaming media players are compatible with DirecTV Now. (Full review) 

• Price: DirecTV Now Plus starts at $50 per month
• Channels: HBO included in DirecTV Now’s latest plans, plus more than 40 other networks like Bravo, Cartoon Network, CNN, Disney, ESPN, Fox Sports 1, Hallmark and TBS (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: 20 free hours of cloud DVR storage
• Supported devices for TV include: 
  • Amazon Fire TV, 2nd generation
  • Amazon Fire TV Cube
  • Amazon Fire TV Stick, 2nd and 3rd generation
  • Apple TV, 4th generation
  • Google Chromecast, 2nd generation and higher
  • Roku, select models
• Multiple streams: Up to two devices at the same time; $5/month for third stream
• Internet speed: Minimum of 12 Mbps for broadband connections to the home
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

DirecTV Now: Pros and cons

Pros Cons HBO included in new streaming plans Only 40+ channels offered for $50/month Many supported streaming media players and devices Must upgrade to $70/month plan for some regional sports networks Only two streams at the same time included

Team Clark Review: 4 things to know before you sign up for DirecTV Now

AT&T WatchTV

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AT&T WatchTV Review Summary: This is the cheapest of the major live TV streaming services, but you won’t get sports or local stations with AT&T WatchTV. Some of its 30+ networks include CNN, HGTV, Food Network, History, Lifetime and TLC. This is a single-stream service with no DVR. Some AT&T unlimited wireless plan subscribers get AT&T WatchTV at no additional charge, but it’s $15/month for everyone else. (Full review) 

• Price: $15 a month as a standalone service; free for AT&T wireless customers with unlimited data plans (Details here)
• Channels: More than 30 channels like A&E, Animal Planet, CNN, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, History, Lifetime, TBS and more; no sports or local stations (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: No DVR included
• Supported devices for TV include: 
  • Amazon Fire TV, 2nd generation or higher
  • Amazon Fire TV Stick, 2nd generation or higher
  • Apple TV, 4th generation or higher
  • Apple TV 4K
  • Google Chromecast, 2nd generation or higher
• Multiple streams: Each WatchTV account can stream on one device at a time
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

AT&T WatchTV: Pros and cons

Pros Cons The cheapest live TV streaming service Roku not supported Free for AT&T Unlimited &More and AT&T Unlimited &More Premium wireless customers (Details here) No DVR included or even an option to add the feature Turner networks included: CNN, Cartoon Network, TBS, TNT and more Stream on only one device at a time 15,000 on-demand movies and shows No local or sports channels

Team Clark Review: 5 things to know about AT&T WatchTV

Philo

Philo Review Summary: If you don’t care about the major national sports networks, Philo has lots of entertainment for a very low price. There are nearly 60 channels in its $20/month plan: A&E, BET, Discovery, Hallmark Channel, HGTV, Nickelodeon, VH1 and more. Unlimited DVR and three simultaneous streams are included. Roku, Amazon Fire TV and Apple TV are supported devices, but Google Chromecast isn’t on the list. Only a phone number is required to start the free trial, not a credit card. (Full review) 

• Price: $20 per month for 58 channels ($16/month plan discontinued in May 2019)
• Channels: AMC, Food Network, HGTV, Hallmark Channel, Investigation Discovery, OWN, Nickelodeon and more; no sports or local stations (Full channel lineup)
• DVR: Unlimited DVR to save any shows you want for up to 30 days
• Supported devices for TV include: 
  • Amazon Fire TV, all models
  • Apple TV, 4th generation or later
  • Android TV 5.0 or higher
  • Roku, all current models
• Multiple streams: Three different streams can be played at the same time
• Internet speed: Minimum of 5 Mbps for HD quality and 1.5 Mbps for Standard Definition (SD) quality
• More resources: Free trial offer | Cancel your subscription

Philo: Pros and cons

Pros Cons Lots of entertainment networks for a very low price Google Chromecast not supported Unlimited DVR included No local or sports channels Three streams at a time allowed

Team Clark Review: 5 things to know before you sign up for Philo

What happened to fuboTV?

Team Clark removed fuboTV from this guide in April 2019 after its starting price was raised to $54.99 per month, but the sports-heavy service may still be a good value for some cord-cutters.

Read our full review to learn more about the pros and cons of fuboTV! 

Final thought 

Still not sure which live TV streaming service to try? Call a family meeting and have everyone write down the channels that are most important to them, then decide together which service is the best fit by using our channel comparison chart.

All of these streaming services offer free trials to allow you to test them out before breaking up with your existing provider.

And if you’re happy with your current cable or satellite service but not your monthly bill, it doesn’t hurt to give customer service a call and see if they’d be willing to work with you on the price.

Listen to Clark talk about live TV streaming options on The Clark Howard Show Podcast