Speeding Things Up

Nobody likes a slow Internet connection.

When things aren't working right, especially when it comes to computers, many people assume they probably need to buy new equipment. While that may be true - especially if your hardware is more than several years old, it should never be your first thought.

In this article, Jim Martin of Tech Advisor discusses some of the steps you can take to help speed up your wireless access within your home. Some of his suggestions include looking at where your router is currently situated. If it's not positioned in a central location, it may not be working as quickly and efficiently as it could. Making sure your router isn't encountering interference from other devices, such as microwave ovens or cordless phones, and that it's using the best antennae possible can also help improve your Wi-Fi connections. Check out the article for additional tips. If all else fails, Martin also has suggestions on possible upgrades for new routers.

Supporting Web Links

• Fix Your Slow Internet With These Networking Options
• Researchers Use Aluminum Foil to Boost Wi-Fi Performance
• The best wireless router (for most people)
• The 10 best wireless routers of 2017
• The Best Wireless Routers of 2017
• Video: What to look for when buying a router
• The Best Wi-Fi Mesh-Networking Kits for Most People
• I've tried a bunch of different Wi-Fi routers — this is the one I keep going back to

 Discussion Questions/Activities 

1. Ask students about their home wireless set up. Do they know where their router is? Do they have dead spots in their house? What do they do about it?
2. Divide the class into small groups and ask them to research one or two new routers on the market. Each group should compile a list of the pros and cons for each router, along with any additional information that would help someone make an informed decision about purchasing one. Groups should prepare a presentation to share their findings with the class.
3. As an individual project, ask students to report on their own router. What do they have? Where is it located? How old is it? What standard does it support? Students should write a brief report or create a video to show how their network router is set up.