VIRGIN Media has exposed where Wi-Fi customers are going wrong – and why they’re suffering lagging speeds.
And no, it doesn’t mean you need a new router (although it may be worth double checking you’re not overdue an upgrade).
In April, Virgin Media began offering customers with selected packages a free Wi-Fi boosterMikael Buck / Virgin Media O2
GettyMetal and large electrical devices splatter Wi-Fi signals in random directions which secretly slow it down.[/caption]
Instead, it is because so many users are putting their hub in the wrong room.
It’s such a common trend that Virgin Media has sent an customer-wide email warning against it.
The culprit? Your kitchen.
Placing your router in the kitchen will wreak havoc with internet speeds, according to the internet provider.
Metal and large electrical devices, such as ovens, fridges and microwaves, splatter Wi-Fi signals in random directions which secretly slow it down.
Similar to how mirrors can confuse your router.
“Kitchens are often home to heavy-duty metal appliances (think ovens, fridges and washing machines), as well as signal-emitting electronics like microwaves, making them a particularly inhospitable environment for your router,” Virgin Media’s email said.
For the best speeds, keep your Wi-Fi hub out in the open, as high up as possible and always standing it upright.
Alternatively, it might be worth getting your hands on a Wi-Fi booster.
In April, Virgin Media began offering customers with selected packages a free Wi-Fi booster, with the promise of top broadband speeds or a £100 in bill credit.
A booster can help certain ‘dark spots’ in your home in terms of connection.
Wi-Fi boosters, known to Virgin Media as Intelligent Wi-Fi Pods, are plug-in mini routers.
They take the wireless signal from your main broadband router, boost it, and retransmit the signal out to all wireless devices, increasing the range.
They are included free in packages a trio of packages, which include the Gig1, Volt, Ultimate Volt deals.
Check out what deals you can get with your own service provider by looking at their website.
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