Tips for Better WiFi During COVID-19 Shutdowns

Many people are working and doing school from home during the Social Distancing activities (or non-activities) recommended by the CDC to limit the spread of COVID-19.

At White Cloud Communications we are monitoring our network utilization closely, and are running with plenty of available bandwidth on all segments of our network ensuring that there are no bandwidth (speed) shortages.

Most calls from customers experiencing issues we receive are related to in-home WiFi issues, not our network that provides service to your home.  Now more than ever, WiFi network may experience issues due to the additional simultaneous use you may not normally see.   

To determine whether the issue is the WiFi or our equipment/network, be sure you test your connection with a computer or laptop plugged directly into the modem (if you are served by our cable network), or router (if are served by our tower network).  If it works there, your issue is going to be in your in-home network.

WiFi requires clean radio signals between your devices and the router.  The router and the devices need to "hear" each other without other things interfering.

Here are some points to consider, to help improve your wireless experience in your home:

Best Modem Placement:

• Placed in a central area of your home.
• Elevated (off of the floor) and in an upright position.
• In an open space, free of obstructions.

Sources of Interference

• Walls and furniture.
• Metal surfaces (including computer cases).
• Halogen/fluorescent lighting.
• Microwaves and refrigerators.
• TVs and computer monitors.
• Most cordless phones.
• Baby monitors.
• Large amounts of water (like aquariums and water heaters).

Other Factors that Can Impact WiFi Connectivity

• The number of WiFi devices connected to your network.
• Interference from neighboring WiFi networks, especially during peak hours.
• Limitations of mobile devices.
• The distance between your Router and a mobile device.

We hope this helps reduce some issues you could be experiencing.  If you need assistance, however, please call us at 855-552-2253 or email us at hello@wcloudus.com so we help get you pointed in the right direction!

Be safe, stay home and be assured we are here to support you!