We’re so connected to the Internet in our daily lives that, for many of us, the first thing we do when we move into a new home is set up the Internet connection. Sure, there are boxes to unpack and furniture to assemble, but what we really want to do is jump online so we can put Netflix on in the background as we get on with the hard work.
Every home is different, so factors like where the connection point is for the NBN and the position of the walls and doors around the house can affect the quality of the Internet signal. If you’re like most people and would like a strong signal and fast Internet speed across your house, a bit of planning in how you structure your home Internet network will go a long way.
This is how to structure your home for fast speed internet connection
- Choose the best network provider
- Be smart about the placement of your modem and router
- Refresh your security
- Use the Ethernet
How To Setup A Fast Internet Network in Your New Home
Choose the best network provider
This almost goes without saying, but a good network provider is essential for delivering a good Internet speed. Australia has a national broadband network (the NBN) that all Internet service providers (ISPs) can use, so chances are that wherever you’re moving will be connected to the NBN.
However, not all ISPs have their own dedicated node infrastructure throughout Australia; many will piggyback off the technology of other providers, which can result in slower Internet speeds, particularly during peak periods. Because of this, when you move you may find you’re better off switching to an ISP that has its own infrastructure to ensure fast Internet speeds. Be sure to talk to your new neighbors about which ISP they’re with and what their Internet speeds are like with that ISP.
Be smart about the placement of your modem and router
Once you’ve chosen an ISP, the next step is to make sure you’ve got your modem (the device that connects to the Internet) and router (the device that connects your devices to the Wi-Fi) in the right place.
Most people would rather tuck their electronic devices out of sight and mind, but routers have a limited distance across which they can broadcast an Internet signal, and that distance can be further reduced by objects such as walls getting in the way. Additionally, signals can be interrupted by appliances such as microwaves or cordless phones – anything that creates waves of its own. All of these issues can cause the Internet to function more slowly than expected.
The best idea is to place your modem and router in a central location to the home and make sure there’s as little clutter and appliances around it as possible.
Refresh your security
Many people forget about security, especially on devices such as their routers. So, given you’re setting it up again, why not take the opportunity to ensure the security is as robust as you can manage?
Set up your Internet to use the WPA2-AES security standard, which stands for Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 – Advanced Encryption Standard. This is the most powerful security option available for your Internet connection, so some ISPs might not offer it.
Security is important because if someone gets access to your home network, not only can they potentially get access to the information you don’t want them to, but they might start to use your Internet for themselves, slowing down the speeds you can get in the home.
Use the Ethernet
While the modern household is very mobile and wireless Internet is often the way to go, don’t forget that if you need extra speed (to a work computer, perhaps, or the box under your TV that plays Netflix), you might want to consider using a wired connection.
The Ethernet is a wired connection used in local area networks (LANs) instead of Wi-Fi. Connecting an Ethernet cable to your device to access the Internet will ensure it gets the maximum speed as it eliminates the loss of speed that occurs with wireless Internet. However, keep in mind there are different Ethernet speeds you can choose from.
The right network for your new home
Whether you live in a cheap city like Columbus or in an expensive home in the suburbs, getting your home Internet network right can make your new home more comfortable and more efficient, just be sure to invest in the right technology and have the right ISP providing your Internet service. If you’re moving home, you should also consider how to minimize the disruption to your Internet throughout your home, and using the Ethernet if you need it.
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great information. thanks for sharing
Thank you for the information. great article
Good article ,I think this article is helpful for this generation
I like your way of defining this article. Many times I face the issue of Slow internet. Today I learnt many things from here to get fast internet Network. Thanks, Lanre!