How to Fix: Internet Fine via Ethernet But Terrible on WiFi

🔧Step-by-Step Fixes

Fix 1: Optimize Router Placement

Router location dramatically affects WiFi performance but doesn't matter for Ethernet.

1. Move your router to a central location in your home:
   • Not in a corner, basement, or far edge of the house
   • Not inside cabinets, closets, or behind furniture
   • Not on the floor (WiFi spreads outward and down from the router)
2. Place it:
   • On a shelf or desk, 4-6 feet off the ground
   • In an open area with good airflow
   • Away from metal objects, mirrors, and aquariums (they block signals)
   • At least 3 feet from other electronics (TVs, microwaves, speakers)
3. Adjust antennas if your router has them:
   • For one-story homes: Point them straight up
   • For multi-story homes: Angle some at 45 degrees or horizontal

Test WiFi after moving the router. Placement alone can double your WiFi speeds.

Fix 2: Change WiFi Channel to Reduce Interference

Neighboring WiFi networks overlap and interfere, especially in apartments and dense neighborhoods.

1. Download a WiFi analyzer app on your phone:
   • Android: WiFi Analyzer (free)
   • iPhone: Airport Utility or Network Analyzer
2. Scan to see which channels are crowded
3. Log into your router settings (usually 192.168.1.1)
4. Go to Wireless Settings
5. Change channels:
   • For 2.4GHz: Use channels 1, 6, or 11 only (these don't overlap)
   • For 5GHz: Try channels 36, 40, 44, 48, or anything showing less congestion
6. Save and restart the router
7. Test WiFi performance on the new channel

Fix 3: Switch Between 2.4GHz and 5GHz Bands

Using the wrong band for your situation causes poor performance.

When to use each:

• 2.4GHz: Better range, goes through walls, but slower and more interference
• 5GHz: Faster speeds, less interference, but shorter range and struggles with walls

1. Log into router settings
2. Make sure both 2.4GHz and 5GHz are enabled
3. Give them different names (e.g., "MyHome_2.4" and "MyHome_5")
4. Turn OFF Band Steering or Smart Connect
5. Save and restart
6. Connect to 5GHz when you're close to the router (same room or adjacent)
7. Connect to 2.4GHz when you're farther away or on a different floor

Fix 4: Update Router Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause WiFi performance bugs that don't affect wired connections.

1. Log into router admin page
2. Look for Firmware Update, Router Update, or Administration
3. Click Check for Updates
4. If available, read release notes for WiFi performance improvements
5. Click Update and wait patiently (5-10 minutes)
6. Do NOT unplug the router during update
7. After restart, test WiFi performance

Fix 5: Adjust Router WiFi Settings for Performance

Certain router settings can be optimized for better WiFi speed and stability.

1. In router settings, go to Wireless Settings
2. Adjust these settings:
   • Channel Width:
     • 2.4GHz: Set to 20MHz (more stable, less interference)
     • 5GHz: Set to 80MHz (good balance of speed and range)
   • Transmission Power: Set to High or 100%
   • Beamforming: Enable if available (focuses signal toward devices)
   • MU-MIMO: Enable if available (handles multiple devices better)
   • QoS (Quality of Service): Enable and prioritize important devices/activities
3. Save and test

Fix 6: Reduce WiFi Interference from Other Devices

Many household items interfere with WiFi but don't affect Ethernet.

1. Identify interference sources:
   • Microwaves: Interfere with 2.4GHz when running
   • Cordless phones: Especially 2.4GHz models
   • Baby monitors: Often use 2.4GHz
   • Bluetooth devices: Can interfere with 2.4GHz
   • Neighboring WiFi: Check with WiFi analyzer app
2. Solutions:
   • Move router away from microwave and cordless phone base
   • Switch to 5GHz WiFi band (not affected by these devices)
   • Replace old cordless phones with DECT 6.0 models (different frequency)
   • Use 5GHz band on devices that support it

Fix 7: Limit Connected Devices or Upgrade Router

Too many WiFi devices can overwhelm your router, while Ethernet connections aren't affected.

1. Check connected device count in router settings
2. If you have 15+ devices:
   • Disconnect devices you're not actively using
   • Use Ethernet for stationary devices (desktop PCs, smart TVs, game consoles)
   • Set up a guest network for IoT devices (smart home gadgets, cameras)
   • Consider upgrading to a WiFi 6 router (handles more devices better)
3. If your router is 5+ years old and you have 10+ devices, it's probably time to upgrade

Fix 8: Check for Router Overheating

Overheating affects WiFi performance before it affects wired connections.

1. Feel your router - if it's very hot, that's a problem
2. Improve ventilation:
   • Remove it from enclosed spaces
   • Don't stack other devices on top
   • Clean dust from vents with compressed air
   • Point a small fan at it if it runs consistently hot
3. Monitor WiFi performance after cooling

Fix 9: Consider WiFi Extenders or Mesh System

If your home is large or has thick walls, a single router might not cover everything adequately.

1. For homes over 2,000 sq ft or with multiple floors:
   • WiFi Extenders: Budget option ($30-80), but can halve speeds
   • Mesh WiFi System: Best option ($200-500), seamless coverage, no speed loss
2. Place extenders or mesh nodes:
   • Halfway between router and dead zones
   • In open areas with good line-of-sight to router
   • Not in corners or behind furniture