Now more than ever, our lives are connected by networks – computers, phones, TVs, security systems, and even speakers are all linked together. With students and professionals all at home competing for bandwidth, you might be wondering how to optimize your network to meet everyone’s needs.
Here are some tips to make sure you and your family are getting the most out of your network!
1.) Restart your equipment. When was the last time you took a break from the internet and restarted your networking equipment? Go ahead and “unplug”. Restarting any modems, routers, access points or boosters/repeaters can help clear their memory and restart any tasks that may have stalled. All you need to do is disconnect the power for about 30 seconds and then reconnect.
2.) Test your speed. Your bandwidth needs have probably changed, and you may need to upgrade your internet service. Go to this link and test your download and upload speeds. Armed with this information, call your Internet Service Provider, and share your concerns. They can test your line and modem while you are on the phone with them. Do NOT google the support number of your Internet Service Provider, get the contact info off your latest bill. If you have a busy home where there are multiple devices streaming games, videos, while you are trying to remote into work or attend online classes, you need more robust service.
3.) Replace outdated equipment. If your gateway is provided to you by your Internet Service Provider, when did they last replace it? If it has been more than 5 years give them a call via the phone number on your bill. Ask if they have any updated hardware available. A new gateway can lead to improvements to security, coverage and overall network speed.
4.) Consider installing a mesh network. Is your second-floor office dependent on the wireless signal coming from the router in the basement? When changing the location of your wiring is not possible, adding a mesh network to your home can help. TMC2 offers a mesh network that we find reliable and easy to set up and use. Please contact us for more details on upgrading your system.