Struggling with slow internet? These router home Wi-Fi tips could improve your connection without costing a penny

17:20, 27 Dec 2025

Millions of UK households now depend on a reliable broadband connection for streaming, gaming and working from home. However, many are not receiving the download speeds they need or deserve.

It’s a frustrating issue, but there are some straightforward steps you can take to ensure your Wi-Fi keeps up with your daily digital demands. While your download speeds will be determined by your provider and how much you’re willing to pay, positioning your router in the wrong place in your home can seriously disrupt those crucial speeds.

A few quick adjustments could give your connection a free boost. If your internet connection feels as slow as a snail in treacle, here are five top tips for getting things back on track, reports the Express.

Move your router

If your downloads are disappointing, the first thing to do is assess the location of your router. If it’s hidden in a cupboard, tucked behind the TV, or stashed under the stairs, it’s time for some immediate changes.

To achieve the best signal, ensure that the blinking black box is out in the open, centrally located and, if possible, elevated off the floor.

It’s also ill-advised to position it near devices such as baby monitors or cordless phones, as these gadgets emit their own signals which can interfere with Wi-Fi and slow things down.

Avoid windows

While it’s advised to keep your router in an open space, this doesn’t imply perching it on a window sill. Proximity to glass can be detrimental.

Primarily, some of the crucial signal emitted from the router will be directed outside instead of reflecting off walls and back into the room.

Additionally, there’s the matter of sunlight exposure. Like all tech gadgets, Wi-Fi routers are not fans of heat, and overheating can lead to performance issues or complete shutdowns.

If your router is currently on a window ledge, it would be wise to relocate it promptly.

Microwaves your Wi-Fi’s enemy

Kitchens are not ideal locations for your router due to the abundance of metal objects that can interfere with the signal. If you frequently use a microwave for meal preparation, this could significantly disrupt your internet speeds.

Microwaves operate on the same 2.4 Ghz frequency as Wi-Fi routers, leading to potential conflicts, disruptions, and even internet connection failures.

Beware of pets

While your cat or dog is unlikely to affect your download speeds, if you have fish at home, caution is advised. Wi-Fi signals struggle with water, so if your router is near a large aquarium, it could be the culprit behind your lagging streams.

Ensure your router is kept away from any fish tanks, and you might notice an immediate improvement in speed.

Reboot it, but don’t keep it switched off

Occasionally rebooting your Wi-Fi router can do wonders. Indeed, the age-old trick of turning it off and on again can genuinely resolve problems, eliminate bugs, and restore speed.

Article continues below

Most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) advise switching off the router, waiting for a minute, then powering it back on.

Bear in mind that a full reboot can take up to five minutes to complete, so avoid hitting the power button if you’re about to join a work Zoom call.

Whilst a restart is beneficial, it’s not advisable to switch off the router overnight as it may miss crucial updates. Continually turning things off and on can also signal to the ISP that there’s a problem with the line, potentially leading to emergency speed restrictions being imposed and actually slowing things down.