Avoid the Holiday Wi-Fi Slowdown: Tips for Managing Multiple Devices
As the holiday season approaches, families often gather to celebrate and enjoy quality time together. While this is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, it can also lead to an influx of devices connecting to your Wi-Fi network. From streaming holiday movies to video calling loved ones and sharing photos on social media, the demand for internet bandwidth increases significantly during this time. To ensure a smooth online experience, here are some tips for managing multiple devices and avoiding the dreaded holiday Wi-Fi slowdown.
1. Assess Your Internet Plan
Before the holidays arrive, check your internet plan’s speed and data limits. Depending on your needs, you might need to upgrade to a higher speed package to accommodate more users and devices. Generally, a plan with at least 25 Mbps is recommended for basic activities, but if you plan to stream in HD or have several devices connected simultaneously, consider plans offering 100 Mbps or higher.
2. Optimise Your Router Placement
The placement of your router can significantly impact Wi-Fi performance. Ensure it is centrally located in your home, away from walls or obstructions that could interfere with the signal. Elevating your router, such as placing it on a shelf, can also help improve coverage.
3. Limit Bandwidth-Hogging Applications
Certain applications and activities consume more bandwidth than others. Streaming services, online gaming, and large downloads can slow down your internet speed when multiple devices are connected. To mitigate this, consider scheduling these activities during off-peak hours or temporarily limiting their use during busy times.
4. Prioritise Devices
Many modern routers come with Quality of Service (QoS) settings, allowing you to prioritise specific devices on your network. For instance, you can give priority to devices being used for video calls or streaming over others that may not require as much bandwidth. Check your router’s settings to see if this feature is available.
5. Disconnect Unused Devices
Take a moment to identify devices that are connected to your Wi-Fi but aren’t in use. Smart home devices, guest phones, or old tablets can often remain connected and consume bandwidth. Disconnect these devices when not in use to free up bandwidth for more critical activities.
6. Use Wired Connections Where Possible
For devices that require a stable connection—such as gaming consoles or desktop computers—consider using Ethernet cables instead of relying on Wi-Fi. A wired connection generally provides faster and more reliable internet speeds, which can be especially useful for activities that require significant bandwidth.
7. Limit the Number of Connected Devices
If your household has several devices, consider establishing guidelines on how many devices can be actively connected at once. For example, set a rule that only certain devices can be connected during peak usage times, such as movie nights or virtual gatherings.
8. Upgrade Your Equipment
If your router is several years old, it may be time to invest in a newer model. Modern routers come with advanced features such as dual-band capabilities, which can help manage multiple devices more efficiently. Look for routers that support Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 for optimal performance.
9. Regularly Restart Your Router
Just like any other device, routers can benefit from a reboot. Restarting your router regularly can help clear any temporary issues and improve performance. Consider setting a reminder to restart your router every couple of weeks.
10. Educate Family Members on Wi-Fi Etiquette
Finally, educate your family members about Wi-Fi etiquette. Discuss the importance of reducing bandwidth-heavy activities during peak times, such as video calls or streaming, to ensure everyone has a good experience.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can help manage multiple devices during the holiday season and avoid frustrating Wi-Fi slowdowns. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring that everyone can enjoy their favourite online activities without interruption. At Move Up Internet, we’re here to help you find the right internet solution for your household’s needs, ensuring you stay connected during the holidays and beyond.