It was around the late 90’s that the
world as we knew it, suffered a
drastic change. Just when we were
getting used to the Internet and to
having whatever information we
needed with just a click, a new technology
arrived. The acronym Wi-Fi was a new
word in the dictionary that meant the
power of doing it all while walking down
the streets or waiting in line at the
supermarket.
Today Wi-Fi is a daily basis service that
many take for granted and it is not until we
face problems with it, that we wonder,
what could've gone wrong? But have you
ever asked yourself, how does the Wi-Fi
work or what can I do to have better Wi-Fi
reception?
The Wi-Fi is a network connection that
does not require the use of cables or wires
because is transmitted via radio waves. The
Federal Communications Commission has
designated a block of frequencies to be used
freely for Wi-Fi and other applications.
Although they are free for use, they do have
a set of regulations that manufacturers and
users must abide to. These frequencies are
in the microwave spectrum range of 2.4
Ghz and 5 Ghz. and transport the data in
digital format between the router or access
point and the end user equipment.
Being so important today for many people,
it would be a great idea to know what
would cause your Wi-Fi signal to degrade
and also learn some tips that may help
improve your Wi-Fi experience.
• Location - Be picky about where your
router is located. The signal moves in
circle waves, so when you’re looking for a
place to locate the router, be sure your
computer will be on the scope of range.
• Also, in that location arrangement, take
into consideration that concrete and metal
are enemies of your signal. Avoid locating
the router inside closets, drawers, or where
many walls can interrupt the signal.
• When purchasing a router, make sure it
comes with the latest technology. Each
router comes with a configuration that
provides the capability of boosting your
speed signal and providing a wider range.
This technology changes constantly. As of
today, the latest one is 802.11ac.
• Keep the firmware up to date. The router’s
firmware is basically the software that runs
on the router. Router manufacturers may
release firmware updates that fix problems
or help the connection experience. This can
be done from the router itself.
• Get a password for your Internet connection.
This will prevent strangers from getting access
your connection, thus making it slower and
actually insecure. Be certain to use the most
appropriate encryption. For individual users,
the most appropriate is the WPA2 and for
business there’s WPA2-Enterprise.
• Do take into consideration that Wi-Fi signal
channels are not exclusive for your use and
you can encounter interference from near
routers/access points from your neighbors or
even yours if you operate several on the same
channel.
• WiFi revision B and G operate on 2.4 Ghz. Later revisions like 802.11n operate on both 2.4 and 5 Ghz frequencies. The latest revision, 802.11ac only operates in 5 Ghz. Be sure to always configure your wireless access point to use different, non-overlapping channels in both WiFi bands.
• Business-wise, I recommend having several
Wi-Fi points to improve connection, coverage
and speed. Also the location of each one of
them is extremely important as is the channel
plan to use. A savvy Wi-Fi vendor would have
the correct tools to properly design, implement
and maximize your Wi-Fi investment.
• Also, for businesses, consider getting a
Dedicated Internet Service. It will get you
a faster, reliable Internet and guaranteed
customer service, among many more
benefits. This does promise some seriously
impressive speed improvements.
The most important thing to remember is
to always consult an expert if you need any
help or recommendation. Here at AeroNet,
we are ready to give you the best Internet
experience.
To learn more about us visit our Website or send us a Email You can also follow us on Twitter @AeroNetPR @GVillarini Facebook LinkedIn