Wireless interference occurs when Wi-Fi signals compete with other wireless networks, electronic devices or physical obstacles.

It can result in slower speeds, unstable connections, buffering and poor coverage, even when the fibre service itself is working correctly.

What are the signs of wireless interference?

Common signs include:

• Wi-Fi speeds that change throughout the day
• Good performance near the router but poor performance farther away
• Frequent disconnections
• Buffering on wireless devices
• Better performance over Ethernet
• Poor performance in one room or area
• Speed improving when certain equipment is switched off
• Different results on 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz

What can interfere with Wi-Fi?

Other Wi-Fi networks

Neighbouring routers may use the same or overlapping Wi-Fi channels.

This is especially common in:

• Apartment buildings
• Townhouse complexes
• Office parks
• Densely populated residential areas

Walls and building materials

Wi-Fi signals may be weakened by:

• Thick brick or concrete walls
• Reinforced concrete
• Metal roofing or cladding
• Mirrors
• Large appliances
• Water tanks
• Underfloor heating
• Multiple floors

Household and office devices

Possible sources of interference include:

• Microwave ovens
• Bluetooth devices
• Wireless cameras
• Cordless phones
• Baby monitors
• Wireless speakers
• Other routers and access points

Poor router placement

A router placed inside a cupboard, behind a television, on the floor or in a far corner of the property will usually provide poorer coverage.

Where should I place the router?

Place the router:

• In a central, open position
• Above floor level
• Away from large metal objects
• Away from thick walls where possible
• Outside cupboards
• Away from microwaves and other electronics
• In a position with airflow around it

Do not cover the router or place objects directly on top of it.

Should I use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz?

Use 2.4 GHz when:

• You are farther from the router
• The signal must pass through several walls
• Maximum speed is less important than range
• The device does not support 5 GHz

Use 5 GHz when:

• You are close to the router
• You want faster Wi-Fi speeds
• You are streaming or downloading heavily
• The device supports modern Wi-Fi standards

Neither frequency is always better. The best choice depends on distance, obstacles and local interference.

Can changing the Wi-Fi channel help?

Yes, particularly on 2.4 GHz.

However, automatic channel selection often works better than manually choosing a channel without first checking the surrounding wireless environment.

Changing advanced Wi-Fi settings incorrectly can reduce performance. Contact PacketSky before making changes if the router is managed or supplied by us.

Will a Wi-Fi extender fix the problem?

A Wi-Fi extender may improve coverage, but it is not always the best solution.

Poorly positioned extenders can:

• Repeat an already weak signal
• Reduce available wireless capacity
• Create additional interference
• Cause devices to remain connected to the wrong access point

For larger properties, a properly planned mesh system or additional wired access points may provide better results.

How can I confirm that the problem is Wi-Fi?

Perform a speed test using a computer connected directly to the router with Ethernet.

If the wired result is good but the Wi-Fi result is poor, the fibre connection is probably operating correctly and the issue is within the wireless environment.