Hack of the day: Boost slow WiFi with simple router tweaks

'The Times of India' brings you 'Hack of the Day'—a new weekday series of quick, practical solutions to everyday hassles. Each hack is designed to save you time, money or stress, using tools and features within your reach—from government websites to everyday apps. In simple terms, it's simple fixes for smarter living.A slow Wi-Fi connection is often attributed to the internet plan, but it could be due to outdated router settings. Routers often come with default settings designed for general use, not for home use.

Adjusting a few settings on the router can increase connection speed and relieve network congestion without purchasing new equipment.

How to fix slow Wi-Fi using router settings

Check wireless channel selectionRouters operate on different wireless channels, and nearby networks may use the same channel, especially in apartments or crowded areas. Logging in to your router settings lets you switch to a less congested channel, which can reduce interference. You can also adjust channel width depending on coverage needs, as narrower channels sometimes provide more consistent performance across rooms.

Adjust Quality of Service (QoS) settingsQoS settings help prioritise devices such as laptops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. Without prioritisation, slower devices such as smart plugs or bulbs can degrade overall network performance. Enabling options such as Airtime Fairness ensures active devices receive sufficient bandwidth.Update router firmwareRouter firmware updates are often ignored, but they can directly affect performance. Updating firmware fixes bugs, improves stability and addresses security issues that may slow down your network over time.

Switch to a custom DNS serverSwitching from your ISP’s default DNS to a custom DNS server can reduce website load times and improve browsing responsiveness while offering greater privacy control.Note: Slow Wi-Fi does not always require new hardware. Small configuration changes can help deliver a smoother and more stable internet experience.