A poor or patchy WiFi signal is incredibly frustrating because it blocks you from performing any internet activity seamlessly. When it comes to poor WiFi signals, most people’s first instinct is to replace the WiFi router with a new model; however, that is not always necessary. Sometimes, your router isn’t even the problem, and you need to employ various other methods to significantly boost your WiFi range.

Here are five proven ways by which you can extend your WiFi range and improve signal strength without buying a new router.

1. Reposition Your Router for Optimal Coverage

While the positioning of the router is usually overlooked, it plays the most important role in determining the range and strength of WiFi signals. If the WiFi router is tucked behind a TV, under a desk, or hidden in a corner, then you probably won’t be getting the best coverage and will be facing issues like weak and patchy signals.

You should place the router in the middle of your home, elevated from the floor on a high shelf or table with no obstructions nearby for even signal disruptions and no interference. This is a simple adjustment, yet it can dramatically improve the signal strength and eliminate dead zones in the house.

2. Change the Router’s Channel

Routers operate or transmit signals using frequency bands. Most routers operate on either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency bands, each divided into multiple channels. By default, WiFi routers and wireless devices use the same channel, which often leads to interference. This interference reduces the efficiency of your WiFi network.

To fix this, use an app like WiFi Analyzer or NetSpot to see the least crowded channels. Now, log into your router’s admin panel via the default IP address or web address like http://tplinkwifi.net and switch to a less congested channel. By switching to a less congested channel, you are reducing the chances of signal overlap and interference and improving overall performance.

3. Upgrade Your Router’s Antennas

Modern routers these days come with detachable antennas that can be changed or upgraded for better signal strength and range. If you suspect that your router’s default antenna is small, internal, or just not powerful enough for your home, then you should consider changing the router’s antenna.

There are various types of router antennas available that you can consider, including:

• High-gain antennas: These extend signals further than the standard antennas.
• Omnidirectional antennas: These distribute signals in all directions uniformly.
• Directional antennas: These focus signals in a specific direction and are ideal for long hallways or specific rooms.

Depending on the orientation and map of your house, you should pick an antenna type to upgrade the standard one. Upgrading antennas is a simple yet affordable fix that often yields immediate results.

4. Use a WiFi Repeater or Range Extender

A WiFi repeater or range extender is a device that picks up signals from your existing WiFi network and rebroadcasts it to extend its reach. It is one of the most effective solutions by which you can enhance the effective range of your WiFi network without buying a new router. Plus, it works seamlessly with older routers, and an older router can work so much better when paired with a reliable extender.

To properly set up a WiFi repeater, plug it halfway between the router and the weak signal area and make sure that it is within a good signal range of the router to avoid rebroadcasting a weak signal. After that, visit the web interface of the router and repeater through the default address, like http://router.asus.com, and follow the instructions to set up the repeater properly. 

5. Use a Powerline Adapter with WiFi Capability

If your house has thick walls or it is so large that there are long distances between the router and other rooms, then you can add a powerline adapter to improve the WiFi signals in the house. These days, powerline adapters with WiFi capabilities are available that use your home’s electrical wiring to transmit data, and many models also broadcast a WiFi signal at the receiving end.

To use these adapters, plug one adapter into a wall outlet near your router and connect it with an Ethernet cable, and plug the second adapter into an electrical outlet near the area with a weak signal so that it can broadcast the signal and extend the range of the network.