Buzz
Your WiFi is likely connected to more devices than it was just five years ago. A high number of connections can cause network slowdowns. Andriy Onufriyenko/Getty ImagesWhether you're finalizing research for a major paper, on a Zoom call for work, or glued to the latest Netflix series, a sudden WiFi drop during critical moments can be incredibly frustrating.
Many people live with this modern frustration for months before taking action. If you've ever wondered, 'Why does my WiFi keep disconnecting?' here are some of the most common causes and their solutions.
1. Too Many Devices Connected
Years ago, most households had just one or two computers connected. Now, with smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and more, it doesn’t take long before your WiFi network gets overloaded.
"Interestingly, even when a device isn’t actively transmitting or receiving data, it still uses a portion of the available bandwidth," explains Neil Parker, CTO and co-founder of the livestream wedding platform Lovecast. "This can lead to slowdowns or WiFi disconnects when too many devices are connected."
Solution #1: Disconnect Unused Devices
Parker suggests that the easiest fix is to disconnect devices you're not using. The quickest way to do this is by changing your WiFi password, which will disconnect everyone. Then, you can selectively let only certain devices reconnect. If that’s not possible, he also recommends switching to a less crowded band, like 5 GHz or 6 GHz, instead of the 2.4 GHz band.
Generally, the 6 GHz band offers the fastest speeds, but it has a shorter range compared to the 2.4 GHz band, which reaches farther but can be slower. You can change the band through your device's settings.
Solution #2: Reduce WiFi Usage
Temporarily reduce your heavy WiFi usage. For example, pausing gaming or streaming movies may help stabilize your Zoom meeting.
Solution #3: Upgrade Your Internet Plan
If necessary, reach out to your internet service provider to upgrade your plan. First, perform a speed test to assess your current internet speed. (Search 'speed test' on Google to find a list of websites offering this service.)
You may have more devices connected than your internet plan can support. If that’s the case, consider contacting your provider to upgrade to a higher-speed plan. However, it's worth trying some other solutions before investing in a new plan.
Solution #4: Reset Your Computer’s Network Settings
If your network adapter isn't functioning properly, try resetting your network settings. While it’s not the most convenient option, returning to factory settings can resolve internet disconnection issues. Keep in mind that your computer and other devices will forget WiFi networks, VPN settings, and more.
2. Poor Router Placement
The positioning of your router is one of the most common reasons for connectivity issues, says Aseem Kishore, founder of Help Desk Geek. "If your router is hidden far away, like in a closet, and your device is at the edge of the signal range, you’ll likely experience frequent drops. To fix this, simply move your device closer to the router."
Solution: Position the Router in a Better Spot
Place the router in the room where you will use WiFi the most or as close as possible. Mike Dragan, COO of the events app Oveit, recommends raising the router to avoid obstacles and positioning it near the center of your home.
"Avoid placing the router near reflective surfaces such as glass, mirrors, and metal, as WiFi signals tend to bounce off of them," Dragan adds in an email.
3. Radio Interference Is Disrupting Your Connection
"Many of us place WiFi routers next to cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, and smart TVs, which can cause interference between signals and lead to connection drops. If you've ever noticed your phone losing WiFi connection near a microwave, you're experiencing radio interference," says Kishore. This type of interference can also occur in apartment or condo buildings where multiple WiFi routers are in close proximity.
Solution: Switch to a Different Channel
Try changing the channel on which your WiFi is operating. "Use an app like WiFi Analyzer to identify which channels are the most crowded, and then choose one with less traffic," advises Sam Brown, a radio engineer at the wireless technology blog OneSDR.
"Another option is to switch to the 5 GHz band. This is often an ideal solution for WiFi in apartment buildings, where the 2.4 GHz band can be congested with hundreds of access points, while the 5 GHz band typically has fewer users," Brown explains.
4. Your Wireless Card Might Need an Update
Devices like printers and computers require occasional driver updates to function properly. If you're experiencing internet issues, especially on just one device, check if the device’s drivers need an update.
Solution: Update Your Wireless Card Drivers
As with most tech issues, the fix is straightforward: "To update your wireless card drivers, visit the manufacturer's website and download the latest versions," suggests Steve Scott, CTO at Spreadsheet Planet.
5. Your Router Needs a Timeout
We tend to push our devices to the limit, keeping phones, laptops, and other gadgets running constantly, even when not in use, expecting them to work perfectly. Routers aren’t immune to this either, but they also need occasional breaks to perform optimally.
Solution: Power Cycle Your Modem
Switch off both your router and modem, keeping them unplugged for at least 30 seconds, advises Stewart McGrenary, director of Freedom Mobiles. Once they’re powered down, restart them in the following order: "First, plug in the modem and wait for it to fully connect. After that, power up the router. Sometimes this simple reset is all it takes," he explains.
6. It's Time for an Equipment Upgrade
There are instances when no amount of resetting or repositioning will help. If you’ve tried everything, it may be time to invest in new technology. "Older routers become increasingly incompatible with newer technologies," says Christen Costa, CEO of Gadget Review, in an email. "You might get it working after a reset... for a while. But eventually, a new router will be necessary."
If you're renting your WiFi equipment, make sure it's the latest model. If you own it, however, it might be time to upgrade and purchase a new one.
Obstacles That Interfere with Your WiFi Signal
Thick walls might be great for keeping sound out, but they also interfere with your WiFi connection. The materials that cause the most trouble are metal, concrete, and brick.
If your home has concrete or brick interior walls, it’s worth investing in a few wireless access points. Position them close to your devices to create a wireless local area network (WLAN) that enhances signal strength and supports more connected devices.
