Slow or Unstable Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a convenient way to connect devices without cables, but it can be affected by distance, walls, interference, and how many devices are in use. If you are experiencing slow speeds, dropouts, or weak signal, follow the steps below to improve performance.

Check Your Wired Connection First

Before changing Wi-Fi settings, confirm whether the issue is Wi-Fi or the broadband connection itself.

What to do:

• Connect a device to your router using an Ethernet cable
• Run a speed test

If wired speeds are good but Wi-Fi is slow, the issue is Wi-Fi related.

See: How to Run an Accurate Speed Test

1. Restart the Router

Restarting the router allows it to rescan for interference and select a clearer Wi-Fi channel.

How to restart:

• Turn the router off at the power
• Wait 30 seconds
• Turn it back on and wait a few minutes

Do not use the reset button. Resetting removes all settings.

2. Reduce Wi-Fi Congestion

The more devices using Wi-Fi at the same time, the slower it becomes.

To reduce congestion:

• Disconnect devices you are not using
• Use Ethernet cables where possible for:
  • Smart TVs
  • Streaming boxes
  • Games consoles
  • Desktop PCs

Dual-Band Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz)

If your router shows two Wi-Fi names (for example, VFAST-XX and VFAST-XX-5G):

2.4 GHz:

• Longer range
• Better through walls
• Slower speeds

5 GHz:

• Faster speeds
• Shorter range
• Best close to the router

For best results:

• Use 5 GHz in rooms near the router
• Use 2.4 GHz in rooms further away
• Spread devices across both bands to reduce congestion

3. Check for Physical Obstructions

Wi-Fi weakens as it passes through objects.

Common problem locations:

• Inside cupboards or TV units
• Behind TVs
• Next to radiators or large metal objects
• Behind large furniture

Materials that affect Wi-Fi:

Moving the router slightly can make a big difference.

4. Improve Router Placement

Router position is one of the biggest factors in Wi-Fi performance.

Typical setup:

Routers are often installed near an external wall (where the broadband enters the home). This works well for nearby rooms but can leave upstairs or distant rooms weaker.

Better placement:

• Open, visible location
• Waist or shelf height
• Away from metal objects and cupboards

In smaller homes, placing the router closer to the centre can improve coverage.

Check for Wi-Fi Stability

If speeds vary or devices feel laggy, you may be experiencing high Wi-Fi latency.

See: Testing Wi-Fi Latency

Need More Coverage?

If Wi-Fi is still weak in certain rooms, additional equipment may be required.

See:

• Improve Wi-Fi Coverage
• V-Smart Mesh Wi-Fi