If you’re paying for high internet speeds but finding your internet is still sluggish, one item could be to blame
Leaving your devices next to wi-fi routers can slow internet speeds(Image: inyourArea)
Finding the right place for your Wi-Fi router can be tricky, especially if it has to be plugged in at a less than convenient location in the home.
Sometimes they find themselves right next to other devices, some of which could be hampering the full power of the internet.
Experts from hyperoptic.com have said it’s crucial to place it correctly for uninterrupted movie and TV show streaming and delay-free work and browsing.
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The devices in question are Bluetooth-enabled ones, such as Bluetooth speakers.
Devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home speakers have Bluetooth built into them, and are often found parked right next to the Wi-Fi router, epecially for households that like to keep all their unsightly cables tucked away behind the TV.
Bluetooth devices and Wi-Fi routers operate on similar radio frequencies, meaning when they’re too close together in your home, they can disrupt your Wi-Fi speeds.
The Institute of Physics describes Bluetooth as a “wireless system for connecting devices together such as computers and mobile phones when they are close to each other”.
One device, such as a phone, acts as the “main unit” while another device, such as a Bluetooth speaker or wireless earphones, serves as the “peripheral”.
All these devices sharing the same frequency right next to each other can compound the effect and grind internet speeds to a halt.
Earlier this year, Broadband Genie named the internet providers that are best for online gaming, working from home, and streaming in its annual awards.
The annual survey named Plusnet as the “Best Broadband Provider” of the year based off a OnePoll survey of 3,997 broadband bill payers, as well as an analysis of 291,467 broadband speed tests that were run over a 12-month period.
The Best Social Tariff award was separately chosen by a team of Broadband Genie’s judges. Broadband Genie said customers “won’t find any fancy frills with Plusnet, such as TV or phone bundles”, adding that its “straightforward ‘broadband only’ deals are a real win.”
Broadband Genie expert Alex Tofts added: “Customer service is an area which can make or break a positive experience with your internet provider.
“Get it right, and customers feel valued and looked after. Get it wrong, and customers will be left frustrated, unheard and will want to look elsewhere.
“We can only hope these big players will be pulling their socks up to improve their services. It’s no surprise that in a year when customers are once again having to swallow hefty mid-contract price rises that they feel they’re not getting value for money.
“This is more evidence and only affirms our stance that Ofcom needs to ban mid-contract price rises.”