Where should you set up your Wi-Fi router?

The best place to put a Wi-Fi router varies from home to home. You want your router to be in a central location and close to the wireless devices that need a fast connection. That means near your laptop, computer and smart TV. Wi-Fi signals travel on a high frequency, which means they can send data quickly but only over short distances.

When choosing where to put your router, consider the layout of your home and your internet needs. You can also run a speed test on your laptop or other wireless device to determine if the connection is up to par. Here are some more tips for where to put your Wi-Fi router.

Why does the location of your Wi-Fi router matter?

Setting up your Wi-Fi router in a good spot is important to get the best signal for your laptop, TV and other devices. 

You want to avoid putting the router behind barriers, like in a closet or basement. Generally, the best place for a Wi-Fi router is:

• In a central area of your home.
• Away from other technologies that may interfere with the signal, like microwaves.

The exception to these guidelines is 5G internet and fixed wireless, which have equipment that needs to be near a window or within the line of sight of the connecting tower. 

Best places to set up your Wi-Fi router

The type of home you have will determine where your Wi-Fi router should go. For instance, a multi-story home will have different needs than a ranch-style home.

Put Wi-Fi router in a central location

Putting your equipment in a central location is essential for getting a good signal in your home.

• Think about where you use your Wi-Fi most often. For example, if you have a smart TV in your living room and your home office is nearby, putting the device in the living room is a good idea. Place it up high on a bookshelf or mount it.
• If it is not possible to put the router in a midway location, try to position it near the most-used devices, or the ones that need the most speed. 

Put Wi-Fi router in an open area

Your router will work best in an open area. Although routers don't match many home decor aesthetics, hiding them in a closet or basement will impact your Wi-Fi signal.

• Signal will be better if the router isn't blocked by walls.
• You can put the router out in the open, like on a shelf. There are decorations available to conceal the device.

Put Wi-Fi router away from any interference

Try to avoid putting your router in rooms with appliances. Microwaves, Bluetooth devices and baby monitors can impact the signal.

Where to set up your Wi-Fi router in a 2-story home

If you live in a larger home with two or more stories, consider the following tips when deciding where to put your devices.

• You can place the router high, like on a bookshelf or mantel.
• If your router has antennas, point them towards the wireless devices that need the most signal, like a smart TV. You could also point one horizontally and one vertically.
• If you place the router on the second floor, make sure it is closer to the ground, but leave room for ventilation.

Remember, you don't want to cause any unnecessary barriers. Avoid putting the router in a basement or closet.

Best tips to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones

Slow internet or Wi-Fi that is not working can be annoying. Here are some ways to get a clear signal in your household.

Get a Wi-Fi extender

Wi-Fi extenders or boosters are an easy way to get further reach with your Wi-Fi connection. Where to place Wi-Fi extenders is determined by the spaces of your home that need better Wi-Fi. Put Wi-Fi extenders between your router and the dead zone to amplify the wireless signal. 

Check with your internet service provider to see if they offer Wi-Fi extenders. If not, you can typically buy one from stores that sell electronics, like Amazon or Best Buy.

Move your gateway

Move your router and modem around if you aren't getting a good internet speed. Put it in the room that has the most wireless equipment.

Upgrade your equipment

Consistent Wi-Fi issues could mean it’s time for a new router. Equipment lifespan is typically around five years, according to Consumer Reports. Your internet provider can run a test and let you know if your modem or router needs to be replaced.

Contributing: Lisa Iscrupe and Hannah Whatley, Allconnect