As more and more people work from home, ISPs are reporting surges in internet usage of up to 20%.
Here are a few things that could keep your home wi-fi system from slowing down:
- Don’t use the microwave when you’re making video calls, watching HD videos or doing something important online
- Download films in advance rather than streaming them when someone else may be trying to make a video call
- Position your internet router as far as possible from other devices that may interfere with the signal, such as on a table or shelf rather than the floor
- Keep your router switched on
- If you’re carrying out video calls or meetings, turning the video off and using audio will require much less of your internet connection
- Try starting those calls at less common times, rather than on the hour or half hour
- For the best broadband speeds, use an ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your router rather than using wi-fi
- Where possible, try not to use a telephone extension lead, as these can cause interference which could lower your speed
- Make calls on a landline where possible, citing an increase in the demand on mobile networks. If you do need to use your mobile, try using your settings to turn on wi-fi calling
- Make voice calls over the internet using apps like Facetime, Skype or WhatsApp
- Disconnect devices that are not in use. Devices like tablets and smartphones often work in the background, so try switching wi-fi reception off on these when you’re not using them
Devices that can interfere with router signals include: cordless phones, baby monitors, halogen lamps, dimmer switches, stereos and computer speakers, TVs and monitors.
(Yahoo)
