With a Linksys router, your home network can have seamless wireless performance. However, because obstructions are inevitable and security settings are sometimes incompatible, WiFi connectivity and performance may be affected. Listed below are the common factors that affect your router's WiFi performance and what you can do about them.
Router and/or the WiFi devices need refresh
Power cycle your router to refresh the connection. To do this, power OFF the router by unplugging the power cord, then wait for about 10 seconds before plugging it back in. Make sure that the power light shows solid white before reconnecting.
You can also turn OFF and then ON the WiFi switch/button of your computer or mobile device, then try connecting again.
Distance from the router
To ensure stable WiFi connectivity, make sure that your computer or mobile device is within the range of the wireless router. Computers or phones may also have problems connecting to the WiFi due to interference from other neighboring wireless devices, such as cordless phones and microwave ovens. To avoid wireless interference, changing the channel of your router is recommended. Learn how you can change the Wi-Fi settings of your router, including the channel. If you have a Mesh router, read this.
Where you place your router greatly affects how fast and stable your WiFi will be at home. For the best coverage, it should be set up in a central, open spot so the signal can spread easily and avoid overheating of the router. The fewer barriers around the router, the stronger and more reliable the connection becomes. Read more to learn the proper placement of your router in your home.
Incorrect wireless key/password
Connecting to a secured WiFi requires a WEP, WPA™ Personal, or WPA2™ Personal security key or password. You may encounter this error when you have changed the wireless settings of your router. If you are unsure about your wireless key or password, check the wireless security settings of your router. You can also make the WiFi name and password easier. To do this, log in to your router’s web interface, click Wi-Fi Settings under Router Settings, and then check the Wireless tab.
QUICK TIP: You can also try removing or forgetting your WiFi profiles or preferred networks.
Outdated adapter drivers
Your computer’s wireless adapter performs better if the drivers are up to date. The wireless adapter’s compatibility with Wireless-AX, AC, N, G, A, or B standards should also be considered. Contact your hardware manufacturer for complete specifications of your wireless adapter. You can also check the connectivity of other wireless devices within the network. The router should be working fine if all other devices have good wireless connectivity to the network.
QUICK TIP: To isolate the wireless connectivity issue, you can try connecting your computer or your other mobile devices to another WiFi (coffee shop WiFi, etc.).
Wireless MAC Filter enabled on the router
The wireless MAC Filter feature limits the number of wireless clients that will be allowed to connect to the WiFi. Learn how to configure the wireless MAC Filtering on a Linksys router.
Outdated router firmware
Firmware updates fix bugs or any issues on a router. If all of your wireless computers and devices are having problems connecting to WiFi, you may need to update the router’s firmware. If you have a Mesh router, read this.
Checking how many devices are connected to your WiFi is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve speed, stability, and overall performance. If there are too many devices sharing the bandwidth, it can result in connectivity issues. Log in to the web interface of your router and go to the Device List. Make sure all online and offline client devices are part of your home network and that there are no unauthorized users.
Learn more about how many devices can connect to a router.
