If there was ever a device that could serve as a link between all your internet-enabled devices, it would be your Wi-Fi router. The advent of Wi-Fi changed the face of internet connection, especially in homes. And now it’s very rare to find a home without a router. But do you just randomly add devices to your Wi-Fi- without considering the risks involved? Are there any risks involved in adding devices to your Wi-Fi network? And just how do you go about adding devices to your Wi-Fi in the correct way to avoid poor connections?
Like we said, Wi-Fi is one major link between your internet-enabled devices. This means a problem with one of the devices connected to your home Wi-Fi could potentially affect other devices on the network. How do you add devices to your Wi-Fi correctly to avoid this? Here are a few tips to get you started:
Make Sure Your Router is Properly Set Up
Most Wi-Fi connection problems you encounter will probably be a result of your router being improperly set up. Make sure the connectors are properly plugged in and the router is set up according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a higher level of technical knowledge, you can customize your router setup to fit your needs but if not, just stick to the instructions in the user’s manual. Check your Ethernet cables to make sure they are not defective. Also, make sure your modem is working properly. Once you are sure the hardware is properly set up, check the software configurations. More often than not, you just need to turn on the auto settings and allow the default configurations of the router to fill in the configurations settings. When in doubt, trust the router.
Rename Your Device’s Wi-Fi
To make it easier for your device to be found and to find your Wi-Fi network, rename your device to something you can easily identify when trying to connect. You don’t want to have to try three different devices before you find the right one to connect.
Remove Obstacles That Can Block the Wi-Fi Network
Wi-Fi networks can be impeded by obstacles like walls or floors. Try to avoid placing your router in close proximity to glass, brick, metal or concrete objects. Test different placements to determine the optimal location to place your router for maximum network strength. If you can’t get around obstacles, you can get a Wi-Fi mesh system instead. A mesh system allows you to place strategic nodes anywhere the Wi-Fi network coverage is weak. These nodes amplify the network and improve connectivity.
Use Secure Passwords
Make sure you use secure passwords for your Wi-Fi networks and keep them as safe as possible. Most devices only need the Wi-Fi entered once and they stay connected. Make sure the devices you are connecting to your Wi-Fi are secure to prevent your password from getting exposed.
Update Your Router’s Software
If your router’s software is outdated, it can lead to connectivity issues, especially if the device you are trying to connect operates a newer software. The latest Wi-Fi upgrade is Wi-Fi 6 and you should try to get this or something close.
Your home Wi-Fi network is an essential part of your home, especially if you use smart home devices or work remotely. Knowing how to add devices to your Wi-Fi network, like how to connect a smart TV to Wi-Fi, for example securely will give you a better connectivity experience and help to keep your home network secure from piggybacking or breaches.
