Slow or unreliable Wi-Fi is a problem I hear about constantly from Long Beach homes and businesses. Before you blame your internet provider, there are several factors within your control that could be causing the issue.
Check Your Router Placement
Your router's physical location has a huge impact on signal quality. Place it in a central location, elevated off the floor, and away from walls, metal objects, and other electronics that can interfere with the signal. Avoid closets, cabinets, and corners — these block and weaken the signal.
For multi-story buildings, placing the router on the main floor where most devices are used typically gives the best coverage.
Use the Right Frequency Band
Modern routers broadcast on two frequencies: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 2.4GHz band has better range but slower speeds and more interference. The 5GHz band is faster but has shorter range. For devices close to the router, use 5GHz. For devices farther away, 2.4GHz may be more reliable.
If your router supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), make sure your devices are connecting using the newer protocol for the best performance.
Check for Channel Congestion
In apartment buildings and dense neighborhoods — common in Long Beach — dozens of Wi-Fi networks can overlap on the same channel, causing interference. Use a free Wi-Fi analyzer app to see which channels are congested, then manually set your router to a less crowded channel.
For the 2.4GHz band, channels 1, 6, and 11 are the only non-overlapping options. For 5GHz, there are many more channels available.
Consider a Mesh Network
If your home or office is large (over 1,500 sq ft) or has thick walls, a single router may not provide adequate coverage. Mesh Wi-Fi systems use multiple access points to blanket your space with consistent signal. I recommend and install mesh systems for clients who need reliable coverage throughout their space.
When to Upgrade
If your router is more than 4 years old, upgrading to a modern Wi-Fi 6 router can significantly improve speeds and reliability, especially in homes with many connected devices. I can help you select the right router for your space and number of devices, and configure it for optimal performance.