Is it time to spring clean your WiFi?

Is your WiFi cutting out during important calls, streaming sessions, or while working from home? Just like your home benefits from a seasonal refresh, your WiFi setup might too. In this blog, we’ll share some simple “spring cleaning” tips to help you refresh your connection, boost performance, and keep everything running smoothly.

Common reasons your WiFi keeps disconnecting

1) Interference and signal issues

One of the most common reasons your internet keeps disconnecting is interference from other devices. Household items like microwaves, cordless phones, and even neighbouring WiFi networks can interfere with your connection. This interference can cause WiFi dropping issues, especially in crowded apartment buildings or homes with many electronic devices.

2) Router placement and range

Router placement plays a big role in connection quality. If your router is tucked away in a cupboard or obstructed by walls and furniture, it may be that your WiFi keeps disconnecting because the signal weakens over distance. A poorly positioned router can lead to WiFi dropping in different areas of your home, particularly in larger or multi-story homes.

3) Smarter WiFi solutions are now available

As more of our lives move online and the number of connected devices in our homes grows, newer WiFi solutions are designed to better meet those demands. If you’re experiencing WiFi dropouts or patchy coverage, exploring advanced options could make all the difference.

Troubleshooting steps to keep your WiFi connection stable

Take control of your WiFi connection with these simple yet effective troubleshooting tips:

1) Adjust router placement

Start by finding a more central, elevated position for your router. Placing it in an open space, away from walls or large metal objects, can help reduce WiFi dropping issues. This simple step can often resolve WiFi disconnection issues caused by poor placement.

2) Reboot your router for a fresh start

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective. That’s why the old ‘turn it off and on again’ adage is still a staple part of any good IT technician’s armoury. Restarting helps clear the router’s memory and refresh its connection with your devices, which can reduce the chances of WiFi dropping and address temporary issues that may cause your internet to disconnect. To restart, unplug your router for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and allow it to reboot fully.

3) Reduce interference

Minimising interference from other electronic devices can make a big difference. Keep devices like cordless phones or baby monitors away from your router to help fix WiFi disconnecting problems. Some routers also have settings that allow you to switch channels to reduce interference and maintain a stable connection – though this is often an automatic feature on modern routers.

4) Upgrade for better coverage and reliability

Even if your current router is still doing a decent job, newer models come with enhanced capabilities — from faster speeds to better handling of multiple devices at once. Upgrading to something like the eero Pro 6E, or extending your coverage with EveryRoom repeaters, can help ensure your connection stays stable wherever you are in the house.

5) Check for damaged cables

Loose or damaged cables connecting your router to the wall or modem can disrupt your internet connection. If you’re experiencing your internet cutting out, carefully inspect each cable and, if possible, replace any that look worn or frayed. Ensuring a solid, undamaged connection between your devices and your router can help stabilise your WiFi connection.

6) Contact us for support

If you’re still experiencing issues after troubleshooting, it may be time to reach out to our support team. Describe the symptoms you’re experiencing, and we can help to diagnose and fix any underlying issues.

Troubleshooting WiFi disconnections on different devices

Even with a good WiFi setup, you might occasionally experience connectivity problems on specific devices. Here’s a breakdown of troubleshooting tips for your favourite gadgets:

Smartphones and tablets:

• Toggle WiFi on/off: Sometimes a simple reset does the trick. Turn your WiFi off and on again in your device settings.
• ‘Forget’ the network: Go into your WiFi settings and select ‘forget’ the network. Then, reconnect, (you'll need to re-enter the password). This can clear any glitches.
• Check for updates: Ensure your device’s operating system is up to date. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues.

Laptops:

• WiFi adapter issues: If you’re using a laptop, ensure the WiFi adapter is enabled and functioning correctly. You can usually find this in your network settings.
• Run network troubleshooter: Windows and MacOS have built-in troubleshooters that can automatically diagnose and fix common WiFi problems.
  

Smart home devices:

• Location, location, location: Devices like smart speakers or security cameras might have weaker WiFi if they’re far from the router. Try moving them closer.
• Check for interference: Other devices emitting radio waves can interfere with smart home device signals.

A reliable solution for whole-home WiFi coverage – Zen’s EveryRoom service

If you still have connectivity issues despite these efforts, you might want to consider a mesh WiFi solution like Zen’s EveryRoom (or an eero TrueMesh system if you’re on our fastest broadband package). Mesh WiFi systems use multiple access points to provide a seamless, reliable wireless network connection throughout your home, reducing the chances of WiFi intermittent connection issues in hard-to-reach spots. With EveryRoom, you’ll enjoy stable connectivity, whether you’re working in the home office, streaming in the living room, or gaming in the bedroom.

For further troubleshooting resources, check out our Performance Issues page, or if you’re working from home, visit our Working From Home page for tips on maintaining a stable internet connection.

Enjoy a smoother internet connection

By understanding the root causes of connectivity issues and taking these simple steps, you can avoid the frustration of internet cutting out unexpectedly. From adjusting router placement to upgrading outdated equipment, each solution brings you closer to a stable WiFi experience. And with Zen’s EveryRoom, you can ensure reliable, whole-home coverage that keeps you connected wherever you are.

So stop asking ‘why does my WiFi keep disconnecting’, and start enjoying your broadband!