Optimizing Your Home WiFi Network Performance

WiFi Frequency Bands

Band	Frequency	Best For	Characteristics
2.4GHz	2.4 GHz	IoT devices, basic browsing	Longer range, slower speeds, more interference
5GHz	5 GHz	Streaming, gaming	Shorter range, faster speeds, less interference
6GHz	6 GHz (WiFi 6E)	Ultra-HD streaming, VR	Shortest range, fastest speeds, no interference

Best Practices

• Central Location: Place router in the center of your home
• Elevated Position: Mount 1-2 meters off the ground
• Open Space: Avoid enclosed cabinets or shelves
• Away from Interference: Keep distance from:
  • Microwave ovens
  • Baby monitors
  • Bluetooth devices
  • Thick concrete walls
  • Metal objects and mirrors

Auto vs Manual Channel Selection

1. Access router settings at 192.168.1.1
2. Navigate to Wireless > Advanced Settings
3. For 2.4GHz: Use channels 1, 6, or 11 (non-overlapping)
4. For 5GHz: Use DFS channels if available (less congested)

How to Find the Best Channel

1. Download WiFi analyzer app on your phone
2. Scan for nearby networks
3. Identify least congested channels
4. Manually set your router to use these channels
5. Test performance after changes

QoS (Quality of Service)

Prioritize devices and applications for optimal performance:

1. Access QoS settings in router admin panel
2. Set device priorities:
   • High: Work computers, gaming consoles
   • Medium: Streaming devices, smartphones
   • Low: IoT devices, printers
3. Enable bandwidth allocation per device
4. Set application priorities (video calls > file downloads)

Security Settings

Setting	Recommended	Why
Encryption	WPA3 or WPA2/WPA3	Latest security standard
Password Length	15+ characters	Harder to crack
WPS	Disabled	Security vulnerability
Guest Network	Enabled with isolation	Protects main network
Firmware Updates	Auto-update enabled	Latest security patches

When to Consider Mesh

• Home larger than 2,000 sq ft
• Multiple floors or thick walls
• Persistent dead zones
• 20+ connected devices

StarHub Mesh Setup

1. Purchase compatible mesh nodes from StarHub
2. Place first node near main router
3. Connect via ethernet or wireless backhaul
4. Position additional nodes:
   • Within 10-15 meters of main node
   • Avoid corners and enclosed spaces
   • Test signal strength before finalizing
5. Use StarHub app to manage mesh network

Smart TV & Streaming

• Connect via 5GHz band or ethernet
• Position router with clear line of sight
• Enable QoS for streaming priority
• Disable "Auto Quality" - set to highest available

Gaming Optimization

• Use wired connection when possible
• Enable Gaming Mode on router
• Port forwarding for specific games
• Disable WiFi 6 power saving features

Work from Home

• Dedicate 5GHz band for work devices
• Enable WMM (WiFi Multimedia) for video calls
• Set up VPN on router level
• Schedule automatic reboots during off-hours

Regular Checks

Task	Frequency	How-To
Speed Test	Weekly	Use StarHub speed test tool
Connected Devices	Monthly	Review and remove unknown devices
Firmware Updates	Monthly	Check router admin panel
Router Reboot	Monthly	Power cycle for 30 seconds
Channel Scan	Quarterly	Check for interference changes

Slow Speeds on WiFi Only

1. Check connected band (2.4GHz vs 5GHz)
2. Update device WiFi drivers
3. Reduce interference sources
4. Consider upgrading router or adding mesh

Frequent Disconnections

1. Update router firmware
2. Disable power saving on devices
3. Check for overheating (ensure ventilation)
4. Reduce number of connected devices