It is impossible to predict WiFi coverage as each property is different.
These are my recommendations for the best locations for a stand-alone router, and your devices, but obviously, this is not always practical, and a compromise has to be reached. Where Full Fibre is concerned, the router connected to the ONT can easily be moved to a better location via a longer Cat 6 minimum, Ethernet cable.
The general rule is do not keep them in a cupboard, but out in the open and sited as high & centrally within the property. Keep them away from:-
- Cordless phone (DECT) base stations
- TVs
- Loudspeakers & any sub-woofers (including those used with a PC)
- Computer monitors
- Electrical appliances – they often transmit their own signals that can interfere with Wi-Fi signals.
- Bluetooth devices – they operate on the same Wi-Fi frequency as your broadband, which can cause signal problems.
- Mirrors – they actually reflect Wi-Fi signals, stopping them from passing through walls and reflecting them back into the room.
- Anything containing large amounts of water – things like fish tanks and boilers can absorb Wi-Fi signals like a sponge.
- Large metal objects – radiators, for instance, will have the same effect on your Wi-Fi as mirrors. If you have a tower PC case with an internal WiFi card, the metal of the case can block signals to & from the antennae if they are located behind the tower case.
- Glass - different types of glass can cause problems for Wi-Fi signals to pass through:-
a) Thick window glass or glazing can block Wi-Fi signals.
b) Low-emissivity (Low-E) windows have a metallic film that can reflect and block Wi-Fi signals more than clear glass.
c) Tinted glass often has a metallic film that can interfere with radio signals.
d) K glass double glazing has a metal vapour coating that can reduce Wi-Fi signal strength by 30-50%.
