With the UK enjoying its second bank holiday of May, your internet supply could be facing an absolute hammering - with more and more people in your household tapping in.
But Virgin Media have just issued advice on how to boost your broadband, and it includes one simple change which could be made in seconds.
The Express reports that it all comes down to router placement. Not only should the flashing hub be positioned away from other electronic devices - due to potential interference - but you should never set yours up in the kitchen.
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Virgin Media explained: "It’s not just electronics that interfere with your WiFi signal: metal can also wreak havoc with your connection. Kitchens are often home to heavy-duty metal appliances (think ovens, fridges and washing machines), as well as signal-emitting electronics like microwaves, making them a particularly inhospitable environment for your router."
If your router happens to be placed in the kitchen, and you've noticed that your signal is constantly cutting in and out - then it may be time to strategically position it elsewhere. Another signal killer comes in the form of mirrors - which can actually reflect the radio waves used to transmit wireless broadband.
This in-turn has a negative impact as signals can become scattered and distorted. But it's not just mirrors in particular, with Virgin adding: "It’s not just mirrors, either: be wary of stainless steel countertops, filing cabinets or any other flat, reflective surface."
Fish tanks can also be a complete speed sucker, with internet signals and water not mixing well. The final piece of advice from the internet service provider comes in the form of keeping your router upright, as laying things flat can slow down even the fastest of connections.
Virgin said: "If you’re trying to tuck your router into a specific space, such as under a TV unit, you might be tempted to turn it on its side. Our advice? Don’t. Keep your router upright with the front lights facing into the room to ensure more of the signal goes outwards into that room, rather than into the floor."
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