How do I get the best Wi-Fi signal?

The internet and Wi-Fi are related, but they are not the same thing. The internet is a worldwide system of computer networks. You receive your internet connection from one of our towers that emits radio waves to a radio receiver mounted on your home or business.

Wi-Fi is your wireless local area network (WLAN) that allows you to share the internet connection, wirelessly, within your home via a router.

Routers

The router is the hub of your internet connection inside your home. You can connect computers, VoIP phones, and other devices directly to the router for the best internet connection. 

However, it is more practical to connect your mobile phones and tablets to the router via Wi-Fi. The router emits radio waves that transmit on a 2.4 or 5 gigahertz frequency. If you have a dual channel router, such as the Asus RT-AC1200G, you will see the option of connecting to a 2.4 Ghz or 5 Ghz channel.

The radio waves from the router can go through walls and many any objects, but the more objects the waves need to travel through, the weaker the Wi-Fi signal strength. The main culprits of weak signals are concrete, metal, and stone. 

For the best Wi-Fi signal, you want to place your router in a central location. The more clutter in the area, the weaker the signal. Try to keep the router away from computer cases and up high for the best signal. If your router has antennas, try adjusting them to get the best signal.

If you have an older router, you may want to check to see if it needs an update. Either refer to the owner’s manual or search for the model of your router on an internet browser, followed by the keyword, “firmware”. Look for the website of the most current version of your router’s firmware and the instructions for downloading it. 

To recap, for the best Wi-Fi signal:

• Move your router to a central location and up off the ground.
• Move metal objects and other obstructions away from the router.
• Adjust your router antennas.
• Update the firmware on your router, if needed.

If you are still having issues with your internet signal, MCSnet technical support is available from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week, including holidays. When you are in front of your equipment, please contact us at 1-866-390-3928 and select option 2 from the menu.

If your router is the culprit of your slower Wi-Fi signal, we have MCSnet Wi-Fi Routers available for purchase or lease-to-own. Paired with our MCSnet app, you will be able to see your real-time traffic usage.

Rhonda Lafrance

Rhonda joined MCSnet in 2019 to lead the rebranding and marketing for the Alberta-based internet service provider. She is now part of the senior leadership team and as the Chief Marketing Officer, she oversees all marketing, sales, business development, and sponsorships/donations for the company. As a former newspaper editor, constituency office manager, and school board trustee, Rhonda understands the importance of communities and building relationships. Rhonda also owns a small business with her husband and has lived in the St. Paul area for over 27 years. She has two young adult sons.