Best Practices for Home Network Installation: Ensuring Fast and Reliable Internet
Setting up a home network might seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, anyone can create a fast and reliable internet connection. As of 2023, approximately 63% of the global population is connected to the internet, according to Our world in Data. Which shows the growing need for reliable home network setups. Whether you're working from home, streaming videos, or gaming online, having a well-installed network is crucial. Let’s walk through some of the best practices for your home network installation.
What’s the Difference Between Wi-Fi and the Internet?
A common mistake we hear is that people think that Wi-Fi is the internet, but they are actually two different things. Let's break it down in a way that's easy to understand.
The Internet: Imagine the internet as a giant network that connects computers all around the world. This network is made up of millions of cables, like a web, that send information back and forth. When you want to visit a website, like YouTube or Google, your computer sends a request through these cables to get the information, which then comes back to your computer. So, the internet is all these connections that allow computers to talk to each other.
Wi-Fi: Now, Wi-Fi is a bit different. Think of Wi-Fi as a bridge or a wireless link that connects your devices (like your smartphone, tablet, or laptop) to the internet. Instead of using cables to connect your devices to the internet, Wi-Fi uses radio waves to send and receive data. This is what allows you to move around your house with your phone or laptop and still stay connected.
Picture this: The internet is like a huge library with all the books (information) you could ever want. But to get to this library, you need a car (Wi-Fi). The car doesn't contain the books, but it helps you reach the library so you can get the books you need. Without the car (Wi-Fi), you wouldn’t be able to easily access the library (the internet) from wherever you are in your house.
Why It Matters: Understanding the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet can help you make better decisions when setting up your home network. For example, if your internet is slow, it could be due to problems with your Wi-Fi (the car), the internet connection itself (the road), or the website you’re trying to visit (the library). Knowing this can help you troubleshoot issues more effectively and choose the right equipment for a fast and reliable connection.
So, remember: Wi-Fi helps your devices connect to the internet, but it’s not the internet itself. The internet is the massive global network, and Wi-Fi is just one of the ways to access it without wires.
Is the Internet Connection Speed You’re Paying for Up to the Task?
Before setting up your network, it's essential to check if your internet speed meets your needs. Here's how to ensure you're getting the right speeds:
1) Understand Your Internet Speed Needs
To determine the speed you need, use a calculator to match your usage requirements. For example, if you stream HD videos, work from home, or have multiple devices connected, you may need higher speeds. You can use our Internet Speed Calculator to easily figure out your ideal speed.
2) Identify the Internet Speeds You're Paying For
Next, find out what speeds you're currently paying for. You can do this by checking your latest internet bill or logging into your internet service provider's account portal. Look for numbers followed by “Mbps” or “Gbps,” which indicate your internet speed.
If you can't find this information, some providers may use confusing names for their plans. In that case, simply call your provider and ask them to clarify your speed package.
If you find that your current speed plan is much lower than what you need, consider upgrading to a higher speed package. Conversely, if your plan exceeds your needs, you might want to downgrade and save on your monthly bill.
3) Measure Your Actual Internet Speed
Now that you know what speeds you're paying for, it's time to see what speeds you're actually getting on your devices. Use a tool like Speedtest to measure your current speed.
Test your speed three times at different times of the day to get an average. If your measured speed is close to 60%-80% of what you're paying for, your network is likely performing well. However, if the speed is significantly lower, it could be due to issues with your network cabling or outdated equipment.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your internet connection is up to the task, providing a smoother and more reliable online experience.
What Is the Best Option for Home Network Installation?
For your home network installation, you have two main choices: wired and wireless. But how do you know which one is best for you? Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand.
Wired Networks (Ethernet):
Wired networks use Ethernet cables to connect your devices directly to your internet router. This means your internet travels through a physical cable, which is like having a direct pipeline of internet to your device.
- Best For: Activities that need fast and stable internet, like online gaming, video streaming (like Netflix or YouTube), or working from home where you might have video calls or large files to upload or download.
- Example: If you’re playing a video game online and your game lags or freezes, that can be really frustrating. A wired connection helps prevent that because it’s faster and more reliable.
Wireless Networks (Wi-Fi):
Wireless networks use Wi-Fi to connect your devices without needing cables. Your devices (like phones, tablets, or laptops) connect to the router through radio waves, so you can move around your house freely while staying connected.
- Best For: General everyday use like browsing the web, checking social media, or using a smartphone or tablet. Wi-Fi is more convenient because you don’t have to plug in any cables.
- Example: If you’re lying in bed and want to watch YouTube on your tablet, Wi-Fi lets you do that without having to be tied to a specific spot.
How to Decide:
- Think about what you do online: If you mainly browse the internet or watch videos on your phone, Wi-Fi might be all you need. But if you play a lot of online games or work from home, a wired connection might be better for those devices.
- Consider your home layout: If your router is far from where you use the internet the most, and you’re noticing your Wi-Fi is slow, you might benefit from using Ethernet cables for the devices you use most often.
In Simple Terms:
Wired connections are like having a solid road that takes you straight to your destination without any traffic. Wireless is like taking a bike path—still good, but not as fast or direct. If you need speed and stability, go wired. If you need convenience, go wireless.
By understanding the strengths of both options, you can choose the one that best fits your needs and ensures a smooth internet experience.
Our Favorite WiFi Network Router
Transform your home network installation experience with the NETGEAR Orbi Quad-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 6E System. This top-tier mesh system is crafted to deliver unparalleled Wi-Fi coverage and performance across your entire home.
Featuring the latest Wi-Fi 6E technology, it offers four distinct frequency bands, including a dedicated 6 GHz band, which significantly reduces congestion and interference, ensuring ultra-fast and reliable internet connections.
Capable of covering up to 9,000 square feet and supporting over 100 devices, this system is ideal for large homes with high connectivity demands.
Extending Wi-Fi Coverage with a Wired Access Point
If you have areas in your home or business where the Wi-Fi signal is weak or spotty, but you still need the flexibility of wireless internet, wiring a wireless access point (WAP) into those areas can be a great solution. Here’s how it works and why it might be right for you:
What Is a Wireless Access Point (WAP)?
A Wireless Access Point (WAP) is a device that extends your Wi-Fi network. It connects to your main router using an Ethernet cable and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to areas where the connection is weak. Think of it as a booster that helps your Wi-Fi reach further into your home.
Why Would You Need a Wireless Access Point (WAP)?
Let’s say you have a room in your house where the Wi-Fi signal is weak. Maybe it’s your upstairs bedroom or a basement office. If you’ve noticed that your videos buffer a lot or your video calls are choppy in these areas, it’s likely because the Wi-Fi signal from your router isn’t strong enough to reach there effectively.
How Does Wiring a Wireless Access Point (WAP) Help?
Wiring a WAP directly to your router using an Ethernet cable gives it a strong and stable connection. The WAP then broadcasts a new Wi-Fi signal in the area where it’s placed. This means you can have strong Wi-Fi in those hard-to-reach spots, without the need for multiple routers or messy solutions.
Example:
Imagine you have a large house with your main router in the living room. The Wi-Fi works great downstairs, but upstairs in your bedroom, the signal is weak. You could run an Ethernet cable from your router up to your bedroom and plug it into a WAP. The WAP then creates a new Wi-Fi zone in your bedroom, giving you a strong, fast connection for streaming movies, browsing the web, or working from bed.
Advantages:
- Strong Signal: The WAP gets a solid connection from your router, so it can provide strong Wi-Fi in areas that were previously weak.
- Flexibility: You still get the convenience of wireless internet, but with the reliability of a wired connection to the WAP.
- Seamless Experience: Many WAPs allow you to keep the same Wi-Fi network name (SSID), so your devices automatically switch to the strongest signal as you move around your home.
In Simple Terms: Think of your main Wi-Fi router as a lamp in the center of a big room. The light (Wi-Fi signal) is bright close to the lamp, but it gets dimmer the further away you go. A WAP is like adding another lamp in a dark corner of the room, connected by a wire, to make sure the whole room is well-lit. This way, you can see (or in this case, use Wi-Fi) everywhere in the room without tripping over cords.
By wiring a WAP into the parts of your home with weak Wi-Fi, you can enjoy strong, reliable internet connections wherever you need them. It’s a simple and effective way to get the best of both wired and wireless networks.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Network?
The time it takes to install a network varies. A simple wireless network can be set up in a couple of hours. However, a wired network, which involves running Ethernet cable installation through walls, might take a day or more, especially if you hire a professional.
Should I Set Up a Home Network?
Yes! Home network installation gives you control over your internet connection, enhances security, and improves performance. If you have multiple devices or a large family, a well-planned network ensures everyone stays connected.
What Hardware Is Required for a Home Network Installation?
For a home network installation, you'll need a few key pieces of hardware:
- Router: Directs internet traffic to your devices.
- Modem: Connects your home to the internet service provider.
- Ethernet cables: Used for wired connections.
- Switch (optional): Expands the number of wired connections.
Do You Need a Switch for a Home Network?
A network switch can be a very helpful tool in your home network installation, especially if you have more devices than your router has Ethernet ports. But let's break it down to understand what a switch does and when you might need one.
What is a Network Switch?
A network switch is a device that lets you connect multiple devices to your router using Ethernet cables. Think of it like a power strip for your internet—just like a power strip lets you plug in multiple electronic devices into one outlet, a switch lets you connect several devices to one port on your router.
Why Might You Need a Switch?
Most home routers have a limited number of Ethernet ports—usually around four. But what if you have more devices that you want to connect using a wired connection, like a desktop computer, a smart TV, a gaming console, and a network printer? This is where a switch comes in handy.
Example:
Imagine you have a router with four Ethernet ports, but you need to connect six devices. Without a switch, you’d have to choose which devices get a wired connection and which ones have to rely on Wi-Fi. With a switch, you can connect one of the router's Ethernet ports to the switch, and then connect all six of your devices to the switch. This way, all your devices get a stable and fast wired connection.
How to Set It Up:
- Choose the Right Switch: Start by selecting a switch that has enough ports for your needs. If you have six devices to connect, you might choose an 8-port switch to give you room to add more devices later.
- Connect the Switch to Your Router: Use an Ethernet cable to connect one of your router's Ethernet ports to the switch. This is how the switch will receive the internet connection from the router.
- Connect Your Devices to the Switch: Now, connect each of your devices to the switch using Ethernet cables. The switch will manage the internet traffic to and from each device, ensuring they all get a reliable connection.
Optimizing Your Setup:
- Placement: Place the switch close to your devices to minimize the length of the Ethernet cables. This helps reduce clutter and ensures a cleaner setup.
- Cable Management: Use cable ties or clips to keep the Ethernet cables organized and out of the way. This not only looks better but also makes it easier to manage your network if you need to make changes later.
In Simple Terms:
A network switch is like a smart extension cord for your internet. If you have more devices than your router can handle, a switch helps you connect them all without losing speed or reliability. By adding a switch, you make sure every device in your home network installation gets the best connection possible, without having to rely on Wi-Fi for everything.
This setup is especially useful if you have a lot of devices in one area, like a home office or an entertainment center, where a strong and stable internet connection is important.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Wi-Fi Network?
The cost varies based on the equipment you choose. A basic wifi installation can cost as little as $100, but a more advanced setup with high-end routers and professional installation could go up to $1,000 or more.
Compare Wired vs. Wireless Devices
Wired Devices:
- Pros: More reliable, faster speeds, better for gaming and streaming.
- Cons: Requires running cables, less flexibility in device placement.
Wireless Devices:
- Pros: Easy to set up, flexible device placement.
- Cons: Can experience interference, slower speeds than wired.
Connect Wired Client Devices
Connecting wired devices is simple. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into your router and the other into your device. Wired connections are best for devices that need stable and fast internet, like gaming consoles or desktop computers.
Connect Wireless Client Devices
To connect wireless devices, ensure your router is set up and broadcasting a signal. Then, connect your device to the Wi-Fi network using the provided SSID and password. Wireless connections are ideal for mobile devices, laptops, and smart home gadgets.
Extend Home Network Range
If you’ve noticed that your wifi network strength is strong in some parts of your home but weak or nonexistent in others, you’re not alone. This is a common problem, especially in larger homes or homes with thick walls. But don’t worry—there are simple solutions to extend your home network range and eliminate those frustrating dead spots.
Why Does Wi-Fi Signal Get Weak?
Wi-Fi signals are like waves of water. When they leave your router, they start strong, but as they travel through walls, floors, and furniture, they can weaken or get blocked. This is why you might have great Wi-Fi in the living room but struggle to stay connected in a bedroom upstairs.
Solutions to Extend Your Wi-Fi Range:
1) Wi-Fi Range Extender:
- What It Is: A Wi-Fi range extender, also known as a repeater, is a device that picks up your existing Wi-Fi signal, amplifies it, and rebroadcasts it to extend coverage to more areas of your home.
- How to Set It Up: Place the range extender halfway between your router and the area where the signal is weak. For example, if your router is in the living room and you have a weak signal in the upstairs bedroom, plug in the extender in a hallway upstairs. It will catch the Wi-Fi signal from the living room and boost it to the bedroom.
- Example: If your Wi-Fi works well in the kitchen but not in the backyard, placing a range extender near the back door could help you enjoy a strong signal outside.
2) Mesh Network System:
- What It Is: A mesh network wifi installation is a group of devices called nodes that work together to create a seamless Wi-Fi network throughout your home. Each node is like a mini-router that communicates with the others to spread the Wi-Fi signal evenly.
- How to Set It Up: Place one node near your router and connect it to the router with an Ethernet cable. Place additional nodes in other areas of your home where you need better coverage. The nodes automatically connect to each other and your devices, giving you strong Wi-Fi everywhere.
- Example: If you live in a two-story house and the Wi-Fi in your upstairs bedroom is weak, you could place one mesh node downstairs near the router and another node upstairs in the hallway. This setup would provide strong coverage in both areas.
Optimizing Your Setup:
- Placement: Whether you use a range extender or a mesh network, placement is key. Avoid placing these devices near thick walls, large metal objects, or other electronics that could interfere with the signal.
- Testing: After setting up your extender or mesh system, test the signal strength in different areas of your home. You can use a free app like Wi-Fi Analyzer (for Android) or AirPort Utility (for iOS) to see where the signal is strong and where it might still need improvement.
- Firmware Updates: Make sure your devices have the latest firmware updates. Manufacturers often release updates that can improve performance and fix bugs.
In Simple Terms:
Imagine your Wi-Fi router is a lighthouse, and the light (signal) it sends out doesn’t quite reach every corner of your home. A range extender or a mesh network acts like additional lighthouses, helping to spread the light further so that every room in your home is brightly lit with a strong Wi-Fi signal.
By using these devices and following these tips, you can make sure that your entire home, from the basement to the attic, gets a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection. No more dropped signals or slow loading times—just smooth, fast internet wherever you need it.
Protect Your Home Network & Home Network Security Tips
Keeping your home network installation secure is essential to protect your personal information and prevent unauthorized access. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be a tech expert to secure your network. Here’s a simple guide on how to do it, step by step.
1. Change Default Router Passwords
When you first set up your router, it comes with a default username and password. These are usually something simple like "admin" and "password." The problem is, these default passwords are easy for hackers to guess. So, the first thing you should do is change them to something unique.
- How to Do It: Log in to your router’s settings page using your web browser. This is usually done by typing your router’s IP address into the browser’s address bar (commonly something like 192.168.1.1). Once logged in, find the settings to change the username and password. Make sure your new password is strong—use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
- Example: Instead of using "password123," try something like "MyStr0ngPa$$w0rd!" This makes it much harder for anyone to guess.
2. Enable Encryption (Like WPA3)
Encryption is like a secret code that protects the data sent over your Wi-Fi network. WPA3 is the latest and most secure type of Wi-Fi encryption, and it’s what you should use if your router supports it.
- How to Do It: In your router’s settings, look for the Wi-Fi or wireless security section. Choose WPA3 if available, or WPA2 if WPA3 isn’t supported. Make sure you set a strong Wi-Fi password as well, which is different from your router’s admin password.
- Example: If you set your Wi-Fi network name to “MyHomeWiFi,” then make the password something like “Secur3H0meNet!”
3. Keep Your Router’s Firmware Updated
Firmware is like the brain of your router—it controls how it works. Just like your phone or computer, your router’s firmware needs to be updated regularly to fix bugs and improve security.
- How to Do It: Check your router’s settings or the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates. Some routers automatically update themselves, but it’s good to check periodically to make sure you have the latest version.
- Example: Think of firmware updates like getting a security system upgrade for your home. It’s always a good idea to have the latest protection.
4. Turn Off Remote Management
Remote management allows you to access your router’s settings from anywhere over the internet. While this might sound convenient, it also opens up a potential door for hackers. It’s safer to turn this feature off unless you really need it.
- How to Do It: In your router’s settings, look for a feature called "Remote Management" or "Remote Access" and make sure it’s turned off.
5. Set Up a Guest Network
If you have visitors who need to use your Wi-Fi, it’s safer to set up a separate guest network. This way, your main network and devices stay secure, even if your guest network is being used.
- How to Do It: Most routers allow you to create a guest network in the Wi-Fi settings. You can set a different password for it and keep it separate from your main network.
- Example: Name your guest network something simple like “GuestWiFi,” and set a password like “Guest1234.” This way, guests can connect without accessing your personal devices.
In Simple Terms:
Protecting your home network is like locking the doors to your house—you want to keep the bad guys out. By changing the default passwords, using strong encryption, keeping your router updated, and taking a few extra precautions, you can make sure your network is secure. These steps are easy to follow and will give you peace of mind, knowing that your online activities are safe.
Optimize Network Performance
To make sure your home network is running at its best, there are a few simple things you can do. Let’s go through each step in a way that’s easy to understand and apply.
1. Regularly Reboot Your Router
Just like restarting your computer can fix problems, rebooting your router can help clear out any glitches and refresh the connection.
- How to Do It: Unplug your router from the power source, wait about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. It will take a minute or two for the router to restart and reconnect to the internet.
- Example: Think of your router as a marathon runner who needs a quick rest to keep going strong. A quick reboot every month or so can keep your network in top shape.
2. Place Your Router in a Central Location
Where you place your router in your home can have a big impact on your Wi-Fi signal strength. Ideally, it should be in a central location, away from walls and other electronic devices that could interfere with the signal.
- How to Do It: Find a spot that’s roughly in the center of your home. Avoid placing it near large metal objects, thick walls, or electronic devices like microwaves, which can block or weaken the signal.
- Example: If your router is tucked away in a corner or behind a TV, the Wi-Fi might not reach other parts of your home as well. Moving it to a more open, central area can help spread the signal evenly throughout your home.
3. Limit the Number of Devices Connected Simultaneously
Every device that’s connected to your network uses up some of the available bandwidth. If too many devices are connected at once, it can slow down your internet speed.
- How to Do It: Disconnect devices that aren’t in use, like tablets or smart TVs that aren’t currently streaming anything. You can also use the settings on your router to see which devices are connected and manage them from there.
- Example: Imagine your internet connection is like a pie. The more devices connected, the smaller each slice of pie gets. By limiting the number of connected devices, you can make sure the ones that are connected get bigger slices, or more bandwidth.
4. Prioritize Certain Devices
Some routers allow you to prioritize certain devices, ensuring they get the most bandwidth. This is especially useful if you’re streaming a movie or in the middle of an important video call.
- How to Do It: Look for a feature called “Quality of Service” (QoS) in your router’s settings. This allows you to prioritize traffic to certain devices or types of activities, like streaming or gaming.
- Example: If you’re working from home and need to make sure your video calls don’t lag, you can prioritize your work laptop so it gets the fastest connection possible.
5. Update Router Firmware
Your router’s firmware is the software that runs it. Keeping it updated can improve performance and fix any bugs that might be slowing things down.
- How to Do It: Check your router’s settings or the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates. Some routers update automatically, but it’s good to check and make sure.
- Example: Updating firmware is like giving your router a tune-up—it can help it run faster and more efficiently.
6. Use a Wired Connection for High-Bandwidth Activities
If you’re doing something that requires a lot of bandwidth, like gaming or streaming in HD, consider using a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi. Getting a ethernet cable installation near me service can provide a faster, more stable connection.
- How to Do It: Connect your device directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. This is especially useful for devices that don’t move around, like gaming consoles or smart TVs.
- Example: Using a wired connection for your gaming console ensures you get the fastest speeds without any interruptions, which is crucial during an online match.
In Simple Terms:
Think of your home network like a busy road. To keep traffic (your internet connection) moving smoothly, you need to keep the road clear (reboot regularly), place signs in the right spots (central router placement), limit how many cars are on the road (limit connected devices), and make sure the most important vehicles (priority devices) get through quickly. By following these steps, you can ensure your network runs smoothly, giving you fast and reliable internet whenever you need it.
Use a VPN for Routers
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) for your router encrypts all internet traffic in your home, providing an extra layer of security. It's especially useful if you have many smart devices connected to your network.
Creating VLANs
Creating Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) can separate your network into different segments, enhancing security. For example, you could have one VLAN for work devices and another for personal devices, preventing them from accessing each other.
The Best Ethernet Cable for Gaming in 2024
When it comes to gaming, having a fast and stable internet connection is crucial. While Wi-Fi can work for casual gaming, a wired Ethernet connection is the gold standard for serious gamers. Choosing the right Ethernet cable can make a big difference in your gaming experience, so let's dive into why Cat6 and Cat6a cables are the best options for 2024.
What Is an Ethernet Cable?
An Ethernet cable is a type of network cable that connects your gaming console or computer directly to your router. This wired connection provides faster and more reliable internet than Wi-Fi, reducing lag and ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
Why Cat6 and Cat6a?
There are different types of Ethernet cables, but Cat6 and Cat6a are the top choices for gaming. Here's why:
- Speed: Both Cat6 and Cat6a cables support high-speed internet connections. Cat6 cables can handle speeds up to 10 Gbps (gigabits per second) at shorter distances (up to 55 meters), which is more than enough for most home internet setups. Cat6a cables take it a step further, supporting 10 Gbps speeds at longer distances (up to 100 meters). This makes them a great choice if your gaming setup is far from your router.
- Reduced Interference: These cables are designed with better shielding to reduce interference from other electronic devices. This means that your gaming signal stays strong and clear, even if you have other electronics running nearby. Cat6a cables offer even more shielding than Cat6, making them the better option if you want to minimize any potential interference.
- Future-Proofing: As internet speeds continue to increase, using a Cat6 or Cat6a cable ensures your setup is ready for future upgrades. If your internet provider offers faster speeds in the future, you won’t need to replace your cables.
How to Choose the Right Cable for Your Setup
- Distance: If your gaming console or PC is close to your router (within 55 meters), a Cat6 cable will work great. If it's farther away, or if you want extra protection against interference, go with a Cat6a cable.
- Budget: Cat6 cables are generally more affordable than Cat6a, so if you're on a budget and the distance isn't an issue, Cat6 is a good option. However, if you want the best performance and are willing to spend a little more, Cat6a is worth the investment.
- Installation: Consider how you'll be running the cable. If it's going through walls or around corners, make sure to get a cable that’s long enough and flexible. You can also find cables that are flat and easier to hide under carpets or along baseboards.
Example:
Imagine you’re playing an intense online game where every millisecond counts. You’re deep into a match when suddenly, your game lags because your Wi-Fi signal drops. Frustrating, right? Now, picture the same scenario with a Cat6a Ethernet cable. Your connection is stable and fast, with no interruptions, allowing you to focus on winning the game.
In Simple Terms:
Think of your internet connection like a highway. A Wi-Fi connection is like a regular road—it can get crowded and slow down. But an Ethernet cable, especially a Cat6 or Cat6a, is like a fast, smooth highway that gets you to your destination (or victory in your game) without any traffic jams.
By choosing the right Ethernet cable, you ensure that your gaming experience is as smooth and fast as possible, with minimal lag and maximum enjoyment.
