4 Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Home Broadband Internet Connection


A smart home with accessories, such as laptops, alarm systems, TVs and thermostats, depends on a quality network for reliable functionality. You can have the best internet service provider plan that money can buy, but without a robust network configuration, your internet services might not work as effectively as you may have anticipated. This article examines some common networking mistakes that you should avoid during the installation of a broadband internet connection or when getting data cabling.

Failure to Assess Network Requirements -- Most people need internet access for a range of devices, for example, smartphones, notebooks, printers and smart TVs, among others. However, some people might fail to consider the number of gadgets that need to be connected to the internet and the coverage required for the devices across rooms. A little planning should help to determine the layout of your home in case you need to lay cables on walls or floors. Also, such a plan can aid in identifying a suitable placement for routers in wireless configurations.

Failure to Update Firmware Regularly -- Modems and routers have inbuilt firmware that needs to be updated for effective performance. Manufacturers provide regular firmware updates to fix small bugs, offer new settings and optimise the performance of these devices. Therefore, when you fail to update your firmware, your system becomes vulnerable to security threats besides affecting the general performance. Most routers do not have the option for automatic updates, and thus, you might be forced to update the firmware from the respective manufacturer's website manually.

Poor Placement of Routers -- Although the placement of a router might seem like a simple trick in a complex system, it may not be the case, at least not in many homes. You will be surprised at how many homes suffer from poor internet connection because of the siting of their routers. Notably, avoid placing routers in places with clutter, such as basements where substantial barriers might block signals. Try to elevate the router off the ground by choosing an open site like the ceiling where the signal can travel to remote areas of the home. A good rule of thumb is to find the centre of the house and get as high as possible because the signals move outwards and eventually drop downwards. For homes with multiple levels, consider installing a router on each floor.

Failure to Upgrade a Router -- Are you still using a router that you bought a decade ago? Then you probably are using an obsolete device that does not optimise your home internet connection. As technology advances at a rapid pace, new routers can send signals directly to a given device, unlike older routers that beam signals across a room in rings-like waves. By upgrading your router, you benefit from multiple frequencies for multiple devices and enhanced speeds.

If you're unsure of where to put your equipment for optimal internet access, contact someone who does data cabling

About Me

Staying in Touch And Preserving Memories With Technology

Hi, my name is Jamie, and a few years ago, I got a little sad when I realised all my photos of my kids were on a USB drive rather than in a paper scrapbook. However, after thinking about it for a bit, I ditched the sad feeling, and I decided to try something new. I explored all kinds of ways that you can share memories and keep in touch with technology. In my mind, I was thinking I needed to have my old aunt over for a tea and a look through the scrapbook, but then, I made a digital scrapbook, sent it to her and called her over a video call. It was great! If you want to read about a range of ways to use technology to preserve memories or stay in touch, explore this blog. Thanks for reading.