Wi-Fi is one of the most useful inventions since the development of public internet, especially for business internet, in the early 1980’s. It has allowed us to be more connected than ever and has become an indispensable tool for both private and commercial use. Now, more than ever, having a strong Wi-Fi signal is an important element of workflow for the majority of modern business’s, for both owners and employees.  However, many Australian business’s often encounter the frustrating issue of weak Wi-Fi signals in certain parts of their office(s). This article will take a look at the common issues that affect Wi-Fi signal strength and the possible solutions to mitigating the causes of weak Wi-Fi, assuming that you business internet has been set up and installed correctly.

 

Distance and Obstacles:

The first and most common reason for weak signals is the relative distance between the device and the router itself. The further away from the router you are, the weaker the signal, and the relative strength of the transmitted signal also plays a part. Walls and obstacles can also impede Wi-Fi reception. Standard hard wood walls, brick and masonry can drastically impede Wi-Fi being transmitted to a device on the opposite side to the router.

Here are a few remedies for the above problems:

1. Working in closer proximity to the router is a quick fix that can help in the short term.
2. Using an Ethernet connection from your device to the router, if available, will usually provide a stronger and more stable connection.
3. Utilising professionally installed Wi-Fi mesh or range extenders to boost strength in Wi-Fi dead zones. Adding Wi-Fi access points and meshing in rooms with a weak signal will help boost Wi-Fi reception in these areas.

 

Interference from Electronic Devices:

 Apart from physical distance and walls, invisible obstacles can also have an affect on Wi-Fi strength. Modern offices are filled with electronic devices that operate on similar frequencies as Wi-Fi signals. These can include cordless phones, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, and even neighboring Wi-Fi networks. These devices can cause interference, disrupting the Wi-Fi signal and reducing its strength. The more devices in operation, the greater the likelihood of interference, which can result in slower or intermittent connectivity. It is recommended to keep the router away from these devices, if possible.

 

Outdated Router or Firmware:

 In the last decade, Wi-Fi signals have evolved rapidly from 2.4GHz, to 5GHz and currently 6GHz. With most NBN connections in Australia supporting 5GHz connections, having a router that supports 2.4GHz can bottleneck speeds, limiting Wi-Fi strength and capability. Similarly, outdated router firmware can lead to performance, compatibility and connectivity issues with current devices. Regularly updating both the router’s hardware with business grade equipment and the router’s firmware can significantly improve your Wi-Fi signal strength and overall network performance. 

 

Network overcrowding.

 Businesses with multiple employees using the same Wi-Fi connection can often affect the speed for each user due to the strain caused on the network. Australian businesses often operate using the default router given to them when they sign up with a provider. These routers are often “Home Gateway” routers and are often only suitable for residential usage. “Business Grade” routers are designed to handle the load of a business network and distribute the signal evenly to each user, providing consistent speed & performance across the board. A router that is designed for business also generally has the benefit of inbuilt security protocols that protect it from cyber threats (eg. Hackers). Upgrading your network infrastructure, increasing bandwidth capacity, or implementing network management solutions can also alleviate congestion and improve signal strength.

 

Full Bars on Business Internet

 Understanding the reasons behind weak Wi-Fi signals, on business internet, often makes it easier to resolve them, saving time, money and hassle. By considering factors such as distance, obstacles, interference, outdated equipment, network capacity,  business owners can take proactive steps to enhance their Wi-Fi coverage and ensure a reliable, high-speed internet connection throughout their office space.

If some of the above problems mentioned are affecting your business internet connection, call the provider that you are currently using to address the issue and fix it. Additionally, you can hire professional ICT services, like SJH Communications, to conduct a thorough assessment of your office layout, identify Wi-Fi dead zones, and recommend solutions to mitigate coverage issues that are cost effective and keep your business internet up and running.

If you are experiencing Wi-Fi issues in your business and your current provider isn’t helping, consider calling SJH Communications on (02) 4044 2300 to organise a professional assessment of your business’s internet today!