How to Calculate and Check Your Wi-Fi Router Range
In today’s world, a stable Wi-Fi connection is more important than ever. But sometimes, Wi-Fi routers may not offer a strong enough signal to cover the entire area. In this case, you may experience low signal strength, poor speed, and intermittent connectivity. However, if you know how to calculate and check your Wi-Fi router range, you can address this issue and ensure that you can access your Wi-Fi network from anywhere within your home or office.
Here are some easy steps you can follow to calculate and check your Wi-Fi router range:
1. Understand Wi-Fi Signal Strength
Before you start calculating your Wi-Fi range, it’s important to understand Wi-Fi signal strength. Wi-Fi signals are measured in RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator), which are expressed in negative dBm values. The closer the value is to 0, the stronger the signal.
2. Get a Wi-Fi Analyzer App
To calculate and check your Wi-Fi router range, you’ll need a Wi-Fi analyzer app. There are several available, and most of them are free to download from the Google Play Store or the App Store. Some popular choices include NetSpot, WiFi Analyzer, and OpenSignal.
3. Measure the Signal Strength across the Area
Once you have downloaded the Wi-Fi analyzer app, you can start measuring the signal strength across the area. Walk around the space and take note of the signal strength in different locations. A good Wi-Fi signal strength is around -60dBm or higher. However, a signal strength of -70dBm or higher is still workable.
4. Check for Interference
There may be interference from other electronic or wireless devices that can impact the Wi-Fi signal strength. To check for interference, use the app to scan the channel for any other devices that may be operating on the same frequency as your Wi-Fi router. If there are any issues, you may need to change the channel on your Wi-Fi router.
5. Move the Router
If the signal strength is not strong enough, you can try moving the Wi-Fi router to a more centralized location. The best location is the one where the signal has the least amount of obstacles to go through. For example, if your Wi-Fi router is in a closet, it’s best to move it out of the closet to get a stronger signal.
6. Use Extenders if Necessary
If none of the above methods work, you can use Wi-Fi range extenders. Range extenders are small devices that help boost the Wi-Fi signal strength by retransmitting the Wi-Fi signal. You can place them at multiple locations in your home or office to get a stronger signal.
In conclusion, it’s essential to have a stable Wi-Fi connection for your work from home, online classes, and entertainment needs. By measuring the Wi-Fi signal strength across the area, checking for interference, moving the router and using extenders, you can improve the range of your Wi-Fi router and enjoy seamless connectivity.