You've picked your package, your connected and ready to start using your BeFibre broadband! The service includes full fibre connection to your property.
We're here to make sure you get the best out of your connection- so we've pulled together some handy hints and tips so you know what to expect and how you can optimise your experience.
So lets break it down for you.
When it comes to broadband speeds, several factors can influence the actual performance you experience, particularly when comparing Wi-Fi and wired (Ethernet) connections. We provide broadband to the property through our router, however if you want to use Wi-Fi, speeds can be affected by various factors within your home which you need be aware of.
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Convenience vs. Performance: Wi-Fi is convenient because it allows you to connect multiple devices without cables, but it's generally slower and less reliable than a wired connection.
Signal Interference: Wi-Fi signals can be affected by physical barriers (like walls and floors), other electronic devices (like microwaves and cordless phones), and even other Wi-Fi networks in crowded areas. This interference can reduce your speed.
Distance from Router: The further you are from the Wi-Fi router, the weaker the signal and, consequently, the slower the speed.
Wi-Fi Standards: Different Wi-Fi standards (e.g., Wi-Fi 4, Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6) offer varying speeds. Newer standards like Wi-Fi 6 provide faster speeds and better performance in environments with many connected devices.
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So, if you're an avid gamer then using a wired connection will be your best option to lower that latency and give you the edge.
Wi-fi is handy if you don't want lots of cables around but can be less reliable due to interference from physical factors!
Out with the old....in with the new!
The age of the device you are using can unfortunately have an impact on your connection.
Here's why:
- Hardware Limitations: Older devices may not support the latest Wi-Fi standards or higher speeds, limiting the maximum speed they can achieve. For example, an older laptop with a Wi-Fi 4 card won’t reach the speeds that a newer device with Wi-Fi 6 can.
- Processor Speed: The device's processing power also affects how quickly it can handle and transfer data, especially when multitasking.
Newer devices are generally equipped with better hardware and support for the latest Wi-Fi standards, allowing them to make the most of your broadband connection. These devices can handle higher data loads and more complex tasks, resulting in faster and smoother performance.
Meet Molly- you'll see she gets different speeds on different devices within the home.
What if I'm not getting the same speeds on all my devices?
Broadband speed is distributed among all the devices connected to your router. For instance, when three devices are simultaneously using the internet, each of them will receive approximately a third of the total available speed.
Activities like streaming (such as live TV, YouTube, or Netflix) and online gaming consume more bandwidth. If someone in your household is engaged in these activities, it may lead to reduced broadband speed for others.
To optimise your broadband experience, we suggest disconnecting devices that are not in use.
Is it time to change your channel?
Wi-Fi interference can occur from electrical devices in the home or as something simple as being on the same wi-fi channel as your next-door neighbour.
Our routers are capable of receiving and transmitting data using both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. The 2.4GHz and 5GHz are divided into wireless channels and each of these channels translates to a specific radio frequency.
Both frequencies have their benefits and using the right Wi-Fi frequency band for your circumstances helps you achieve a faster and more reliable internet connection.
The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band gives you more range and passes better through walls and other physical obstructions whereas the 5 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band provides more speed and can be better at avoiding signal interference from other routers and devices.
Find out how to change your channel here:
How-do-I-change-my-Wi-Fi-channel-Linksys-Router
How do I change my Wi-Fi channel- BeHub
So the strength of a wired and wireless connection can be different, hopefully our tips will help you to get the best out of both.
Checking you speed is super easy.
Remember-testing it via a wired connection is always recommended as this gives you the true speed going into your router. You can test on wi-fi but that will give you the speed going to that device which could be lower...…especially if your using a device as old as father time!
Check it out at www.speedtest.net.
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