If your device is connected Gigapeak’s Wi-Fi but you experience poor coverage, slow speeds, or no internet in parts of your home/business, follow this guide. Note: Some devices don’t support 5GHz, which handles interference better.
1. Check for Interference
Wi-Fi signals can be disrupted by nearby devices or objects. Look for:
- Wireless printers, Bluetooth speakers/headphones, game controllers.
- Microwaves, high-powered lights, or personal routers (not supported by Gigapeak). Action: Temporarily disconnect these devices or move them away from your router or device. Test if performance improves.
2. Manage Wi-Fi Congestion
Wi-Fi is a shared medium, like a busy restaurant where only one person can “talk” at a time. More users reduce performance, especially during peak hours.
Action:
- Expect slight slowdowns during busy times (e.g., evenings).
- Use a wired Ethernet connection for better reliability.
- Close bandwidth-heavy apps (e.g., streaming, torrent clients, game updates).
3. Address Signal Absorption
Wi-Fi signals weaken when passing through objects. Thicker materials cause more issues.
Worst Offenders:
- Brick/concrete walls, supporting walls, elevators/stairs.
Moderate Issues:
- Mirrors, kitchen appliances (e.g., fridges), bathrooms.
Less Impact:
- Clear glass, plaster walls, wooden doors.
Action:
- Check your surroundings (knock on walls/doors to gauge thickness).
- Move closer to the router.
- Avoid placing the router near heavy materials or appliances.
4. Evaluate Device Capabilities
Wi-Fi performance depends on your device’s hardware. Laptops typically have stronger Wi-Fi cards than smartphones, which prioritise energy efficiency. Older devices or those limited to 2.4GHz/802.11a/b/g may perform poorly.
Action:
- Check your device’s specs for “5GHz” and “802.11ac/ax” support.
- Update device drivers:
- Windows: Device Manager > Network Adapters > Update Driver.
- Mac: Update via System Settings > General > Software Update.
- Consider upgrading older devices for better performance.
5. Specific Issues
- Unable to Access a Website:
- Test if the site is down by accessing it via mobile data (4G/5G).
- If the site works elsewhere, clear browser cache or try another browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
- Flush DNS:
- Windows: Open Command Prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns.
- Mac: Open Terminal, type sudo dscacheutil -flushcache; sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder.
- Video Call Issues:
- Ensure your device and app are updated.
- Test calls with multiple contacts to isolate if the issue is on their end.
- Check internet speed at speedtest.net
6. Run Diagnostics
- Windows: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network Troubleshooter. Note errors.
- Mac: Hold Option (⌥), click Wi-Fi icon, select Open Wireless Diagnostics, and follow prompts. Save report.
- Take a screenshot of errors (Windows: Windows + Shift + S; Mac: Shift + Command + 3) and email to Support@gigapeak.co.uk
7. Contact Support
If issues persist:
- Submit a ticket via Support@gigapeak.co.uk
- Provide: device type, OS version, surroundings (e.g., wall types), diagnostic results, and screenshots.
Tips
- Use the provided router; personal routers cause interference and aren’t supported.
- Keep devices, antivirus, and router firmware updated.
- Test speed regularly via speedtest.net
• • Avoid suspicious links/files to protect your connection.