By the SightShield team · · 3 min read
Line or Wi-Fi? Test first
Before changing anything, find out where the problem is. Connect a laptop to the router with a network cable and run a speed test. If the wired speed is close to your plan, the line is fine and the problem is Wi-Fi. If the wired speed is low too, the issue is the internet line or the router itself, and you should restart the modem and call your provider. Many people buy new routers for a problem that is actually the line.
Common causes and fixes
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fast near the router, slow two rooms away | Distance and walls; Bangalore homes have thick brick and concrete | Move the router to a central spot or add an access point |
| Slow in the evening only | Neighbour networks crowding the same channels, or the provider’s busy hours | Use 5 GHz, change channel, test wired to compare |
| One device slow, others fine | Old device that only supports old Wi-Fi standards | Update drivers, or use a newer device or a cable |
| Drops every few minutes | Overheating or failing router, or interference | Check router temperature and firmware; replace if old |
| Slow when cameras or backups run | Upload saturated | Limit CCTV streams or cloud backups during work hours |
| Good signal but slow speed | Too many devices or a low-end router | Upgrade the router or add access points to share the load |
Router placement
- Place the router in the centre of the home, at about chest height or higher, not on the floor or inside a cabinet.
- Keep it away from metal almirahs, mirrors, aquariums and microwaves.
- Do not hide it behind the TV or in the electrical DB box, which is common in new flats.
- If the fibre enters at one corner of the house, run a cable from there to a central router position.
2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz in apartments
In apartment blocks, dozens of neighbouring networks share the few 2.4 GHz channels, which makes it slow and unreliable in the evenings. The 5 GHz band has more channels and much more capacity but shorter range through walls. Use 5 GHz for laptops, phones and TVs near the router or an access point, and leave 2.4 GHz for smart devices that need range rather than speed. Newer routers with Wi-Fi 6 handle many devices better.
Wi-Fi 6 vs 6E vs 7 →When to add access points
If you have checked the line and placement and some rooms are still slow, the home needs more than one Wi-Fi point. Mesh systems are quick to add; ceiling-mounted access points with a network cable to each give the best result in villas and multi-floor homes, because each point gets full speed from the cable rather than sharing it over the air. Avoid cheap range extenders; they often halve the speed.
Mesh Wi-Fi vs access points →Quick checklist
- Restart the modem and router.
- Run a wired speed test.
- Update the router firmware.
- Move the router to a central, open spot.
- Use 5 GHz where possible.
- Check how many devices are connected and remove unknown ones.
- Change the Wi-Fi password if you see unknown devices.
Worked example
A family in a duplex in HSR Layout complained that Wi-Fi in the upstairs bedrooms was unusable. The wired test showed full speed, so the line was fine. The router sat inside the electrical cabinet near the main door on the ground floor. We moved it to the centre of the ground floor and ran a cable upstairs to a ceiling access point. Upstairs speeds went from 5 Mbps to over 150 Mbps on the same plan.
Quick answers
Why is my Wi-Fi slow but wired is fast?+
The problem is Wi-Fi coverage or interference, not your internet plan. Check placement and use 5 GHz or add access points.
Will a faster plan fix slow Wi-Fi?+
Not if the problem is weak Wi-Fi in some rooms. Test wired first.
Are range extenders a good idea?+
They often halve speed. Mesh with wired backhaul or access points work better.
Why is Wi-Fi slower in the evening?+
Neighbours’ networks and your provider’s network are busiest then. 5 GHz and a wired comparison help find which it is.
How often should I restart my router?+
A restart helps occasionally, but if you need it often, the router may be overheating or failing.