HELPFUL INFO: Fact Sheets and Video

The Internet is connected networks all over the world.  Wi-Fi is your personal wireless network within your home.

There is a box (usually some type of modem) that brings Internet into your home from your service provider (PSC).  In order to run a speed test against what you are paying for the speed test should be run from that device.

Your testing speeds over Wi-Fi are impacted by many things, consider the following:
– What is the type and age of router you are using?  An older router may not support the speed you subscribe to.
– Do you have the latest firmware (software) updated on your router? (This is important for both performance and security)
– What is the maximum speed the device you’re using will support?
– Is there a chance your have a virus or malware on your device?
– Do you have other things running on your device when you’re running the speed test?
– An finally, how far are you from the wireless signal?  Do you have a full signal?

All of these things may cause slower speed tests results over Wi-Fi.

The wireless radios in your router/gateway push service out from the device.  Think about it like a speaker, the further you get away, the softer the sound is. Your Wi-Fi works the same way.  The further away you get, the weaker the signal.  If there are things like metal, concrete, thick walls, and mirrors, between you and the router these can weaken the signal even more.

The placement of your router or gateway determines where the Wi-Fi signals are strongest in your home, or outside your home.  The more centrally located, the more of your home it will reach.  However, if your router or gateway is in a location where it can’t be moved you can add extenders to push the signal further into other areas of your home.