Slow internet speeds and dropped connections at home may have less to do with your service provider and more to do with where your Wi-Fi router is placed, according to technology experts. Incorrect router positioning remains one of the most common causes of weak signals and unstable connections.
Wi-Fi routers often struggle to provide full coverage, particularly in multi-story homes. Walls, furniture, and household objects can block or weaken signals, creating dead zones where internet performance drops sharply. Experts say that before upgrading equipment, users should first assess whether poor placement is limiting coverage.
Specialists recommend placing routers in a central, open location within the home. This allows wireless signals to spread evenly in all directions, improving coverage across rooms and floors. Routers placed inside cabinets, drawers, or near thick walls can suffer significant signal loss. Elevating the router on a shelf or table can also help reduce interference from furniture and flooring.
Basements, experts warn, are among the worst locations for Wi-Fi routers. Concrete and dense building materials commonly used in basements absorb wireless signals, reducing their strength. Since basements sit below living areas, signals often struggle to reach upper floors, increasing the likelihood of dead zones.
Electronic interference is another major factor affecting Wi-Fi performance. Household appliances such as microwaves can disrupt signals, particularly on the 2.4 GHz frequency band. While most modern routers support multiple bands — including 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz — each has trade-offs. Higher-frequency bands offer faster speeds but shorter range and weaker wall penetration.
Experts say long-term improvements may include upgrading to newer routers that rely less on the congested 2.4 GHz band or using wired connections where possible. Other sources of interference include Bluetooth devices, wireless speakers, headphones, and certain lighting systems.
Correcting router placement remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve Wi-Fi stability. By choosing the right location and minimizing electronic interference, users can eliminate dead zones and enjoy a more reliable home internet experience.
