A weak Wi-Fi signal can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of streaming, gaming or trying to meet a deadline.
What’s more, it can affect even those on the most exclusive, high-speed broadband deal.
Did you know that according to a 2023 CommunityFibre study, 21 million households (76% of respondents) regularly experience ‘Wi-Fi range’ – a phrase given to the frustration caused by slow broadband.
If your connection keeps dropping or slowing down, the problem might not be your broadband provider – it could be your setup.
Another survey from Oookla carried out in 2024 found that 57% of respondents blame their ISP when issues arise. However, is it always the supplier’s fault?
We’ve looked into it.
Here are some practical ways to improve your Wi-Fi signal at home:
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Rethink Your Router’s Location
Most UK homes are built with thick walls and awkward layouts that aren’t Wi-Fi friendly.
To get the best signal:
- Place your router centrally: Ideally on the ground floor, away from exterior walls. Avoid tucking it away in a cabinet or behind furniture.
- Keep it elevated: A shelf or desk is better than the floor – Wi-Fi signals travel better when elevated.
- Avoid signal blockers: Large metal objects, mirrors, microwaves, and even fish tanks can interfere with your signal.
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Consider a Wi-Fi Extender
Wi-Fi extenders (also called boosters or repeaters) pick up your existing signal and rebroadcast it further. They’re ideal for larger homes or if you have a home office in the loft or garden.
- Pros: Affordable, easy to install.
- Cons: Speeds can drop significantly on the extended network, especially if the extender is placed too far from the router.
If you do invest in an extender, place it halfway between your router and the weak signal area. Don’t put it in the furthest corner where the signal already struggles.
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Is a Mesh Network Worth It?
Mesh Wi-Fi systems are more advanced than extenders. They use multiple nodes (mini routers) that talk to each other and provide seamless, whole-home coverage.
- Pros: Consistent speeds, especially in large or multi-storey homes. Great for homes with thick walls or outbuildings.
- Cons: More expensive upfront than extenders.
They’re ideal if you’re constantly battling with dead zones—or you want the same strong signal in your kitchen as in your office upstairs.
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Cut Down on Interference
Other electronics can disrupt Wi-Fi signals, especially in busy homes. Try these quick fixes:
- Switch off unused smart devices (TVs, consoles, speakers) when not in use.
- Keep your router away from microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors.
- Switch to 5GHz if your router supports it. It’s faster and less prone to interference, though it has a shorter range than 2.4GHz.
Router Security and Updates
Our experts have one final specialist tip for you.
You should regularly check your router’s firmware. An update from your ISP can sometimes improve performance and security.
Improving your Wi-Fi doesn’t always mean upgrading your package – it might just mean smarter setup. And with remote work, smart homes, and streaming more common than ever, getting your signal right matters.
What if my Wi-Fi Signal Still Doesn’t Improve?
If you’ve tried out all of our tips and still find yourself struggling, it may be time to switch broadband deals.
We search a wide range of deals from leading suppliers in the UK, and it’s our mission to make broadband switching simple.
With expert advice along every step of the way, it’s never been easier to explore deals in your area.
Simply try our free deal-checking tool, pick a plan you like, and we’ll handle the rest!
