Simple answers to common Wi-Fi questions
Type your problem in your own words below. Every answer says what to check, what to leave alone, and when it's time to call someone for help.
10 answers found · last checked 17 August 2026
Why is Wi‑Fi weak upstairs or in the garden?
Distance plus walls, floors, foil insulation, metal and glazing reduce signal. A centrally placed node or properly positioned mesh unit is usually better than extra broadband speed.
CoverageWhere should I put my router?
Put it upright, out in the open, elevated and as central as the fibre/cabling allows—away from cupboards, TVs, radiators, metal, fish tanks and large electronics.
CoverageCan I keep the router in a cupboard?
It may work, but cupboards absorb and trap the signal, especially if metal or full of electronics. Moving the Wi‑Fi access point into the open usually improves coverage.
CoverageWill a faster package fix a dead spot?
Usually not. Package speed improves capacity to the router; a dead spot is a radio coverage problem needing better placement, mesh or Ethernet.
CoverageWhere should I put a mesh booster?
Place it where it still receives a good signal from the upstream node—often midway toward the weak area, not in the dead zone. Keep it open and away from interference.
CoverageCan I add too many mesh units?
Yes. Excess nodes can increase co-channel airtime, poor roaming and unstable backhaul. Add only where measurements show a need.
CoverageWhy does my phone stay connected to the farther mesh unit?
The client ultimately decides when to roam. Steering can encourage a better node/band but cannot force every device immediately. Toggle Wi‑Fi or move briefly to trigger a rescan.
CoverageCan I use an old extender with my new mesh?
It may create a separate network, double NAT or poor roaming and can reduce performance. Prefer platform-compatible managed nodes or Ethernet access points designed for the network.
CoverageWill Ethernet backhaul improve mesh performance?
Often yes: it removes the wireless backhaul hop and can improve consistency, especially through dense walls or between floors.
CoverageWhy is Wi‑Fi poor in a new-build home?
Foil-backed insulation, underfloor heating, dense plasterboard and metal can attenuate radio signals. Multiple well-placed wired nodes may be needed.