WiFi has become almost as ubiquitous as air. Aside from having it in your home, one can connect to the web via laptop, tablet, or smartphone while in hotels, airports, restaurants, supermarkets, and yes… even churches.  By having the ability to log on as a "Guest", we have connectivity virtually anywhere.

Convenient? Yes. However, if we step back into the home, we see that WiFi has become more than mere convenience, but rather, an integral part of the lifestyles of many. Still, this is a resource to which few give much thought. Considered a utility like electricity or water, we seldom ask "what is the condition of my electrical current?" or "should I upgrade my water?".  The same is true about WiFi - until a problem pops up. And these problems frequently arise when a new wireless device is added to the home, or shortly after a house guest inquires "What's the password to your WiFi router?"

A WiFi signal is indeed like the water running through your pipes, or better yet, like vehicles on local roads. More cars on the road, and you're going to be moving slower. Throw in a couple of semis, and it's time to call home and request your dinner be kept warm, 'cause it's gonna be a while

Additional users and devices on your network can reduce speeds to the point that visiting loved ones ask “what's going on with your WiFi?”. They are the cars on your road. What's the semi? Your smart TV, streaming Blu-Ray player, or the media player, such as Apple TV or Roku.

So, how do we ensure our WiFi is up to snuff? If we accept that technology advances at a pace such that it is obsolete by the time it gets to retailers, we should also recognize that the router serving our new technology is probably going to need upgrading. A faster tablet is only going to pull information from the web as fast as the router that feeds it data. The same goes for streaming media, like movies. The latest box office hit represents a great deal of data when streaming from you Apple TV, making the question "Is my router up to the task, or is the movie going to buffer and freeze on my TV?" one that needs to be addressed

In addition to the base router being current and capable of handling the load intended for it, signal interference is an important consideration. WiFi strength diminishes over distance and through outright interference from lighting, wiring, and materials used in construction of homes. This can be remedied by employing Access Points; devices that transmit a strong WiFi signal originating from the base router.

Ultimately, network performance requirements vary among users, but most will need some guidance in ensuring their WiFi is capable of serving at desired levels, so take some time to visit your local integrator, and talk to the experts. The results of upgrading your wireless connection can be very rewarding.

Internet access has become integral to the lifestyles of many. Is your network capable of managing your internet traffic without hiccups or bumps affecting your leisure time?

Call Custom Audio Video at (843) 815-5130.