While Wi-Fi is super convenient, this convenience does have a trade-off. Wireless is generally not as reliable as a wired connection to your modem and has a few limitations.

We’ve put together this handy guide to help everyone get the most out of their wireless network.

What affects Wi-Fi speeds?

Distance

The closer you are to the wireless access point, the better it will perform. Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi) has a limited range and can only reach so far. Other devices, household appliances and physical obstructions can also reduce Wi-Fi range.

Number of users

The more user connected to your Wi-Fi, the less wireless bandwidth there is available to each device. This can cause your Wi-Fi to slow down (even if you are connected to Ultra-Fast Fibre). Where possible, connect devices to the Ethernet to conserve Wi-Fi bandwidth for mobile devices.

Interference

There are many things that can interfere with the quality of your Wi-Fi signal. Appliances like microwave ovens, cordless phones, Bluetooth speakers and baby monitors make it difficult for signal to pass by. Other obstacles like hot water cylinders, wooden and concrete walls, and anything with metal in it will also get in the way.

Other access points

Neighbours Wi-Fi is the most common cause of signal interference, especially if you live in an apartment with lots of other Wi-Fi access point around. As you move around your home, interference can make it difficult to get strong and smooth wireless signal. You can reduce interference by selecting the best Wi-Fi channel.

Device

A recent, name-brand modem is highly likely to outperform a no-name branded one. It’s best to use a modern device, like our NF18 modem, which use the latest Wi-Fi technology. Older modems can limit the speed and quality of wireless signal.

Position

It is best to have your router placed up high and centralized in the home. A single modem positioned behind a desk won’t be able spread signal very far. For tips on router positioning, check out our modem positioning guide.

How to fix common Wi-Fi issues

• I can’t get Wi-Fi signal in my bedroom

  Wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi) has a limited range and can only stretch strong signal so far. The further you move away from your access point, the weaker the signal will become.

  A single wireless access point will struggle to reach every room, because of several factors such as the layout of your house, solid building materials, metal appliances and interference from other nearby Wi-Fi networks.

  

  Home Wi-Fi Solutions:

  A mesh network offers the best coverage throughout your home. Mesh networks work independently from your current modem and use multiple Wi-Fi points to spread a strong signal to every room. For larger or multi-story homes, rent two Google Nest Wifi points for $10/month each or three points for $15/month. Find out about Google Wifi.

   

• Wi-Fi is frequently dropping out

  Your Wi-Fi connection can drop as you move around the house.

  In general, the further you move away from your access point, the more likely you are to experience signal drops. This is because of obstructions like walls, home appliances and interference from other nearby networks.

  

  Home Wi-Fi Solutions:

  A mesh network is the most comprehensive solution. Mesh networks work independently from your current modem and use multiple Wi-Fi points to spread a strong signal to every room. We offer Google Wifi (3-pack) mesh network for just $399 or $15 per month rental. Find out about Google Wifi.

• I’ve installed Fibre, but now I’m having Wi-Fi issues

  It’s likely the placement of your modem has moved and there is a greater distance for the Wi-Fi to travel to your living area or bedrooms. Your modem is probably sitting next to your ONT (the white Fibre box), which often isn't installed in a central location.

  The further you move away from your access point, the weaker the signal will become. This is because of obstructions like walls, home appliances and interference from other nearby networks.

  

  Home Wi-Fi Solution:

  Given your new modem placement, a mesh network is the best solution. Mesh networks work independently from your current modem and use multiple Wi-Fi points to spread a strong signal to every room. We offer Google Wifi (3-pack) mesh network for just $399 or $15 per month rental. Find out about Google Wifi.

• One device can’t connect to the Wi-Fi

  There are a few smart devices (often Android) that are designed for the USA market and aren’t compatible with some common New Zealand Wi-Fi settings. These devices are incompatible with Wi-Fi channels 12 and 13.

  You can resolve this issue by connecting the device to your 5Ghz Wi-Fi network. Another solution is to change the Wi-Fi channel on your 2.4Ghz network. Login to your modem portal (usually 192.168.1.1) and change the Wi-Fi channel to 1,6 or 11.

  Please contact our support team if you need help troubleshooting this issue.