Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Coverage and Performance Issues

Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Coverage and Performance Issues

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.


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