Why More isn’t Always Better

When it comes to building a reliable network for your home or small business, choosing the right Ethernet cable for your home is essential. However, that doesn’t mean the highest grade is always the best choice. For instance, with so many options like Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 7, and beyond, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. As a result, many assume that higher-rated copper cables are always better. However, this isn’t necessarily the case.

In this blog, we explain why cables like Cat 6 or even Cat 5e are ideal for most residential and for applications such as gaming, streaming, and connecting IoT devices. We’ll cover why higher-grade cables like Cat 7 or Cat 8 aren’t practical. The importance of using full copper outdoor-grade cables, and why shielding isn’t necessary in most homes. Plus, we’ll clarify how cable lengths impact performance and how to ensure your network delivers seamless connectivity without overcomplicating your network infrastructure.

Understanding Ethernet Cable Categories

We have categorised the Ethernet cables based on their performance capabilities:

• Cat5e (Category 5e): Supports frequencies up to 100 MHz and is designed for Gigabit Ethernet speeds (up to 1 Gbps) over distances up to 100 meters. Cat5e cables are flexible, easy to install, and sufficient for most home networking needs.
• Cat6 (Category 6): Designed for operating frequencies up to 250 MHz, allowing for higher data processing compared to Cat5e. Cat6 cables can support 10 Gigabit Ethernet speeds over shorter distances (up to 55 meters) and are backward compatible with Cat5e standards.
• Cat 7 and Cat 8: Max speed of 40-100 Gbps (at short distances, typically under 30 meters). Frequencies between 600 MHz – 2000 MHz and are best suited for Data centres and server farm applications.

Flexibility and Termination

Higher-grade cables, especially Cat 7 and Cat 8, have thicker shielding and a smaller bend radius, making them harder to work with. They’re less flexible, damage more easily, and don’t terminate neatly in standard RJ45 connectors for homes as there is limited space for the cable. For home networks, Cat 5e or Cat 6 are far more practical and user-friendly.

Cost vs. Benefit

Cat 7 and Cat 8 cables are significantly more expensive to buy and install, yet the average home won’t see a measurable performance improvement over Cat 6. Internet speeds in residential areas rarely exceed 2.5 Gbps, and even high-end setups rarely push beyond 10 Gbps.

Durability and Handling

The rigidity of higher-grade cables not only complicates installation but also increases the risk of damage. Excessive bending or improper termination can cause the cables to become microphonic, picking up interference, which can disrupt network performance. In home environments, where cables may need to navigate through challenging spaces like; walls, attics, or crawl spaces. The durability and ease of handling provided by Cat5e or Cat6 cables are advantageous.

The Right Ethernet Cable for Your Home – Our Recommendations

Cat 5e and Cat 6

• Performance: Cat 5e and Cat 6 are more than capable of supporting the demands of modern home networks. Both can handle streaming, gaming, video conferencing, and even 10 Gbps speeds over short distances.
• Ease of Use: These cables are easy to install, flexible, and terminate neatly.
• Future-Proofing: With Cat 6 supporting up to 10 Gbps, your network will be future-proof for years to come.
• Outdoor/Full Copper grade: Always choose cables made of 100% copper (not Copper-Clad Aluminium, or CCA) for durability, safety, conductivity, longevity and performance. The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) establishes these standards.
• Shielding: For homes, unshielded cables are perfectly fine and more cost-effective. For example shielded cables (like Cat 7 or Cat 8) are designed for environments with heavy electromagnetic interference (EMI), such as factories or data centres.

Cables like Cat 7 and Cat 8 are designed for high-performance environments, such as data centres and enterprise-level networks. Where ultra-high bandwidth and shielding are necessary to prevent crosstalk and interference, if run close to power lines in industrial environments. They’re less flexible, damage more easily, and don’t terminate neatly in standard Ethernet Sockets. For home networks, Cat 5e or Cat 6 are far more practical.

Performance Needs for Home Networks

For home network enthusiasts, who are keen to select the right Ethernet cable for your home network. The key to a great setup is choosing cables that balance performance, practicality, and cost. Cat 5e and Cat 6 are the perfect fit for most residential networks, offering flexibility, ease of use, and enough capacity to handle today’s and tomorrow’s demands. While higher-grade cables like Cat 7 and Cat 8 are impressive but unnecessary for most homes. The Telecommunications Industry widely recognises that Cat 6 is a suitable choice for future-proof residential networks. As it supports 10 Gbps speeds without the complexity of higher-grade cables.

If you’re setting up or upgrading your home network and want expert advice, feel free to reach out. We specialise in creating seamless, high-performance networks for homes and small businesses. No overengineering, just reliable results. By optimising your network with the right Ethernet cable for your home, you’ll ensure a smooth, efficient, and future-ready system without breaking the bank.

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A strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection is essential for almost everything we do at home—whether it’s streaming your favourite shows, working remotely, or connecting with family and friends. At NetLinx Cabling, we know how frustrating it can be when your internet speed drops or your connection becomes unreliable. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to improve your home Wi-Fi connection.

With these simple tips and tricks, you can boost your Wi-Fi performance and get the most out of your internet service. Read on to learn more from our team of cabling and networking specialists based in Cheshire.

1. Optimise Your Router Placement

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is placing their router in an unsuitable location. Where you position your router can significantly impact your Wi-Fi signal strength.

• Place it centrally: Position your router in a central location of your home to distribute the signal evenly across all rooms.
• Avoid obstacles: Keep the router away from walls, large furniture, and electronic devices that can interfere with the signal, such as microwaves or baby monitors.
• Elevate your router: Place the router on a higher shelf rather than on the floor. The higher the router, the better the signal distribution.

2. Update Your Router and Firmware

Outdated routers and firmware can lead to slower speeds and connectivity issues. Check your router’s manual or manufacturer’s website to see if there are any updates available.

• Upgrade your router: If you’re using a router that’s more than a few years old, it might be time for an upgrade. Newer models come with advanced technology that supports faster speeds and improved range.
• Install firmware updates: Regularly updating your router’s firmware ensures you have the latest features and security patches, which can enhance your network performance.

3. Choose the Right Wi-Fi Channel

Most routers operate on two frequency bands: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 2.4GHz band is more prone to interference because many devices use this frequency, whereas the 5GHz band is typically less congested.

• Switch to 5GHz: If your router supports dual-band frequencies, switch to the 5GHz band for a faster and more stable connection.
• Select a less crowded channel: Use a Wi-Fi analyser app to check which channels are less crowded and manually change your router’s channel settings accordingly.

4. Secure Your Network

An unsecured network can lead to unauthorised users consuming your bandwidth, which results in a slower connection for your household. Make sure your network is properly secured to prevent this.

• Use a strong password: Change your Wi-Fi password to something unique and complex that’s difficult for others to guess.
• Enable WPA3 encryption: WPA3 is the latest and most secure encryption standard. If your router supports it, enable it for better security and performance.

5. Limit the Number of Connected Devices

Having too many devices connected to your Wi-Fi network can strain its performance. Smartphones, laptops, smart TVs, and even IoT devices like smart lights or thermostats can all slow down your connection if they’re all running simultaneously.

• Disconnect unused devices: Turn off the Wi-Fi on devices you aren’t currently using to free up bandwidth.
• Set device priorities: Some routers allow you to prioritise certain devices, ensuring that your laptop gets the best connection for work or streaming.

6. Upgrade to a Faster Internet Plan

If you’ve tried all the above tips and still experience slow Wi-Fi speeds, your current internet plan might not be providing enough bandwidth for your needs.

• Contact your provider: Speak to your internet service provider to see if they offer faster plans or additional features like fibre optic internet, which can significantly improve speed and reliability.
• Check your speed: Use an online speed test tool to check your current internet speed and compare it with what you are paying for. If there’s a big discrepancy, it might be time for an upgrade.

7. Professional Installation and Network Setup

If you’re looking for the most effective way to boost your Wi-Fi connection, consider professional installation and setup from a trusted networking specialist like NetLinx Cabling. Our team has extensive experience in setting up home networks, optimising router placement, and installing the latest cabling solutions for enhanced performance.

• Customised solutions: We assess your home layout and provide tailored solutions to ensure optimal coverage and speed.
• Expert advice and support: Our professionals can recommend the best equipment and configuration settings based on your specific needs.

Why Choose NetLinx Cabling for Your Home Networking Needs?

As a locally-based business in Cheshire, NetLinx Cabling is dedicated to helping homeowners improve their internet experience. We offer comprehensive network installation and troubleshooting services, ensuring your home Wi-Fi operates at its best.

• Local expertise: We have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by homes in the Cheshire area and offer tailored solutions to address common connectivity issues.
• Professional service: Our team of certified technicians provide prompt, reliable service, and exceptional customer support to meet your networking needs.

Final Thoughts

Improving your home Wi-Fi connection doesn’t have to be a complicated process. By following these simple tips and considering professional support from NetLinx Cabling, you can enjoy faster speeds, better coverage, and a more reliable internet experience.

Fix your TV Streaming or Sky Q Services with a High-Performance Internet Connection

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to help you find Streaming TV Solutions to achieve the ultimate entertainment experience. Connecting your TV to a stable internet connection is essential for accessing a wide range of content and services. Whether you want to stream online TV services like Netflix and Amazon Prime or access Sky Q’s array of channels and features, ensuring a stable and efficient connection is crucial. This guide will talk you through the various methods to connect your Smart TV or Sky Q to your WiFi and help troubleshoot common connectivity issues and get you the TV streaming help you need!

Which Media TV Package is Right for me

Firstly let’s take a closer look at online streaming channels and Satellite-based TV channels. They differ primarily in their delivery methods and user experience. Online streaming channels use the internet to deliver content directly to a user’s device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smart TV. This allows for on-demand viewing, greater flexibility, and the ability to access content from anywhere with an internet connection. However, streaming quality can be affected by internet speed and bandwidth availability. Additionally, streaming services often offer personalised content recommendations and interactive features, enhancing the user experience compared to traditional satellite TV.

In contrast satellite TV relies on a network of satellites orbiting the Earth to broadcast signals directly to a satellite dish installed at the user’s location. This method provides a wide range of channels with consistent quality but typically requires a subscription and specific hardware like Sky Q’s hub and mini boxes.

Sky are planning to phase out satellite slowly over the coming years in favour of its streaming services. However, the service is still available at the moment and enjoy Sky’s, Sky Q satellite services as it suits their specific needs.

Troubleshooting Sky Q Mini Box Connectivity Issues

If you’re experiencing issues connecting your Sky Q hub to the Mini Box or your Sky Q mini box keeps freezing, follow the below preliminary troubleshooting steps.

• Restart Your Devices: Turn off your TV, Sky Q hub and mini boxes. Wait a few minutes and then turn them back on.
• Update Firmware: Ensure your TV and Sky Q box firmware are up-to-date. This can often resolve connectivity issues.
• Move Your Sky Hub: If possible, place your hub closer to your TV or Sky Q box to improve signal strength.
• Relocate the mini boxes: If your Sky mini box is getting no signal or intermittently drops or buffers then you could consider moving them closer to your hub.

If these steps have not successfully resolved the problems, it’s likely that the mini box is too far away from the main hub to receive a strong enough signal on the internal SKY wireless network. The good news is Sky Q can be hardwired.

A hardwired Sky Q installation offers superior performance compared to a wireless setup. Why? Because when you hardwire your Sky Q box, you’re connecting directly to your network via Ethernet cables. This means you’re getting a consistent and stable connection, which translates to zero buffering and uninterrupted viewing. No more frustrating pauses in the middle of that crucial game or dramatic scene!

Troubleshooting TV Streaming Connectivity Issues

Where you have a streaming TV entertainment package and you’re looking for streaming TV solutions firstly follow these easy steps to help identify some simple fixes.

Speed Test: Run a speed test to ensure you have the minimum required bandwidth for streaming. Most services recommend at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming and 25 Mbps for 4K. For further instructions, check out our blog on How to Test your Wi-Fi Speed.

• Restart Router: Power cycle your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds and plugging it back in.
• WiFi Signal: Check the signal strength of the Wi-Fi next to the TV.  It’s possible that you are getting a good bandwidth throughput at the router but the WiFi signal may not be reaching to the TV.
• Supported Devices: Ensure your streaming device or smart TV is compatible with the streaming service.
• Operating System: Check that your device’s operating system is supported by the streaming app.
• Subscription Status: Verify that your subscription is active and payments are up-to-date.
• Power Cycle: Turn off your streaming device, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on.
• Factory Reset: As a last resort, perform a factory reset on your device to resolve persistent issues.
• Down Detector: Use websites like Down Detector to check for service outages and see if others are experiencing similar issues Click Here
• VPN Geo-Restrictions: If using a VPN to access content, ensure the VPN server is located in a region where the content is available. Also be aware that VPNs can sometimes slow down your connection.

If you’ve followed the above steps and found that your WiFi speeds are falling short of the TV and the streaming TV solutions have not given the desired impact. For a stability you can hardwire the connection or up-grade your home Wi-Fi system.

A Wi-Fi Installation Solves a Multitude of Problems

Now, if you’re thinking, “But my home is big, and my WiFi needs to reach every corner,” don’t worry – there is very good solution. The best way to ensure that your Sky streaming package performs at its best is by installing a whole home WiFi system with hardwired wireless access points (WAPs).

Here’s why:

• Consistent Signal Strength: With hardwired WAPs strategically placed around your home, you’ll get a strong, reliable signal in every room. Whether you’re streaming in the living room, bedroom, or even the attic, you won’t experience any drop in quality.
• No More Dead Zones: Say goodbye to those annoying dead zones where WiFi just doesn’t seem to reach. Hardwired WAPs create a seamless network that covers your entire home, ensuring smooth streaming no matter where you are.
• High-Speed Internet Everywhere: By hardwiring your WAPs, you’re maximizing the speed of your internet connection. This means faster downloads, quicker load times, and an overall better experience with your Smart TV streaming services.
• Future Network up-grades made easy: The network is designed so that when you’re ready to upgrade to the latest wireless networking standards it is a simple process to up-grade your home network. Making it easily to take advantage of the security, performance and stability benefits from the latest Wi-Fi standards.

Investing in a hardwired Sky Q solution or a whole home WiFi installation is a game-changer for your home entertainment enjoyment. You’ll enjoy a superior, uninterrupted, high performance TV streaming experience with no buffering – just pure entertainment. Plus, your entire home will benefit from a robust WiFi network that’s up to any task, whether it’s streaming, gaming, or working from home.

So, if you’re tired of buffering and WiFi frustrations, consider making the switch to a hardwired setup or home wired in wireless access points. Your Sky Q and streaming services deserve the best.

I hope you have found this blog on Your Guide to High Performance Home Entertainment: Streaming TV Solutions informative. As always don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our Wi-Fi installation specialists if you would like to discuss how we can optimise your home entertainment.

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Navigating the Connectivity Challenges of Remote Workers

Welcome to our blog on 5 essential tips to optimise your Internet connection for remote working or home study. In this post we will look at the most common internet connection problems. And cover some simple DIY productivity hacks to help you solve those every day hurdles liked dropped video calls and buffering screens. And what to do if you are still experiencing unreliable connections to work or Online Lectures.

The Remote Worker’s Struggle

Remote workers and students can find themselves grappling with the frustrations of poor internet connections. And sometimes feels like a constant struggle to maintain a stable and fast connection. Disruptions in video calls, delayed responses in communication, and limited access to essential resources. This can result in decreased productivity, missed deadlines, and added stress. The frustration is compounded when tasks that require a reliable online connection become challenging or impossible to complete. Additionally, when a slow internet connection disrupts the collaboration and interaction that remote work and online learning depend on, can contribute to the feeling of isolation on-line workers can sometimes encounter. These challenges highlight the critical role a reliable internet connection plays in the success and well-being of those working or studying from the home office.

Identifying the Causes of Poor Internet Connectivity

Before we look at the solutions, let’s review the most common root causes of these frustrations. Distance from the router (hub), heritage constructed buildings with thick walls or new builds with insulated walls and irregular property layouts can weaken signals and slow your internet down creating wifi dead zones and unfit for purpose slow speeds.

5 Essential Tips to Optimise your Internet Connection

Now we’ve identified the main reasons for poor internet, lets look at our top 5 tips for creating a stress free, harmonious environment for working or studying from home.

1. Optimal Router Placement: Place your router in a central location, minimising interference and maximising coverage.
2. Update Router Firmware: Ensure your router’s firmware is up to date. Manufacturers often release updates that improve performance and security.
3. Secure Your Network: Set a strong password for your wifi network to prevent unauthorized access, which can slow down your connection.
4. Reduce Interference: Keep electronic devices away from your router, as they can interfere with signals. Also, choose the least crowded wifi channel.
5. Power Line Adapters: Allow network connectivity over existing electrical wiring. Some users can get satisfactory network extension and are easy to install but can offer unreliable service.

Poor internet coverage and the possible reasons are covered in more detail another blog called 4 causes of poor WiFi signal.

We also discuss slow internet troubleshooting tips and measuring the performance of your network in our How to Test Wi-Fi Signal Strength.

Professional Installation for Lasting Reliable Connectivity

If the DIY steps don’t resolve your connectivity issues, then don’t worry there is internet connectivity help for home workers. A professionally installed home Wi-Fi network. This solution gives efficient connectivity across every corner of your property. It may surprise you that the cost of a professional WiFi system is comparable to mesh/booster systems and will deliver the most reliable and fastest wifi signal speeds throughout your property. So you can confidently connect, uninterrupted, to the internet from anywhere. 

The Benefits of Optimising your Internet Connection

• Seamless Connectivity: Eliminate wifi dead zones and enjoy smooth connectivity all day, with a network tailored to your property’s specifications
• Enhanced Productivity: No more slower upload and download speeds, enabling seamless file transfers and quick access to online applications.
• Optimised Learning Environment: Students benefit from a reliable internet connection, promoting engagement and optimal performance in virtual classrooms.
• Future-Proof Technology: Your network is designed with scalability in mind, ready to accommodate the latest technological advancements. Wi-Fi 7 is now available so you can affordably take better advantage of your Fiber to the Door data allocation.

Internet Solutions for Remote Workers

Recent studies have found that 85% of remote workers face connectivity issues, affecting overall work satisfaction. A professionally installed home wifi network. Wireless access points will consistently outperform DIY solutions, such as boosters and mesh systems in terms of coverage and reliability.

While our team at NetLinx Cabling specialises in delivering tailored WiFi solutions for Northwest England, we do understand the value of empowering users so they can optimise their own internet connections. Start with the DIY steps to enhance your connection. If your frustrations persist, NetLinx Cabling can provide the professional touch needed for smooth and streamlined connectivity.

Don’t Struggle Alone

All things considered when your frustrated, your productivity is taking a hit and you have wasted a lot of time on technology glitches. The DIY steps have not yielded the connectivity results you need. Don’t navigate the challenges of connectivity alone. You can call in tech support for remote working internet connectivity.  NetLinx Cabling as your trusted partner to deliver a seamless, professional, and lasting wifi solution. A professionally installed Wi-Fi network is the most reliable route to uninterrupted remote connectivity for both work and study. 

I hope you have found this blog on 5 Essential Tips to Optimise your Internet Connection for Remote Working helpful and as always don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our friendly Wi-Fi installation team members.

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Call the Professionals to Fix your Slow Internet

WiFi up-grades made Straightforward and Simple with the WiFi Specialists

You’ve researched how to fix slow internet speeds and booked your expert WiFi installation professionals.  Finally upgrade day is nearly here, it’s time to get the internet fixed! There have been months of dealing with those agonisingly frustrating drabs of signal, buffering and dropped connections. Very soon you will be seamlessly streaming shows, online gaming without interruptions and simply enjoying the digital world on your extended WiFi. The constant struggle and the agony of sluggish internet will be a distant memory.

Now you’re counting down the days to faster browsing, smoother and seamless connectivity but you’ve been mulling over the whole idea of having work done in your home and are feeling a little apprehensive. The thought of strangers in your home, drilling holes and setting up gadgets is a tad unsettling.
In this post, we discuss what to expect on the installation day. Where our WiFi installation team to take care of the whole process. We’re here to demystify the process and show you why enlisting the help of our friendly WiFi specialists is easy and a game-changer for your home network.

The Need for WiFi Installation Professionals

A reliable and robust WiFi network is the backbone of every home or business. Whether you live in a spacious, irregular-shaped property or a home built under heritage construction. Ensuring your property is equipped with a seamlessly functioning wireless network is essential. So here at NetLinx Cabling we believe that engaging the services of expert WiFi installation professionals should be as simple and hassle-free as possible.  A proficient WiFi installer can tailor the installation to accommodate the intricacies of your home, ensuring optimal coverage in every nook and cranny. Our services are suited for all levels of technical knowledge. The friendly technicians are more than happy to answer your questions to help fill in the gaps on your tech knowledge.

Benefits of a Correctly Installed Home Network

A correctly installed home network goes beyond merely providing internet access; it becomes the cornerstone of your smart home. Here are some key advantages:

• Seamless Uninterrupted Connectivity: A well-designed WiFi network ensures seamless connectivity throughout your property, eliminating dead zones and ensuring a smooth online experience. Additionally, the optimization process results in a network that effortlessly transitions between devices, providing an uninterrupted online experience.
• Optimised Performance: WiFi specialists optimise your network for peak performance, guaranteeing fast and reliable internet speeds even in expansive or irregularly shaped homes. Moreover, this fine-tuning enhances the overall efficiency of your network, allowing for consistent and high-speed performance across all connected devices.
• On-line Security: WiFi engineers implement robust security measures, keeping your network and data safe from potential threats. Furthermore, these security enhancements not only safeguard your online activities but also fortify your network against any potential vulnerabilities, ensuring comprehensive protection for your digital environment.

The WiFi Installation Process – Enlist a WiFi Expert Installation Team

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes? Let’s break it down, step by step.

1) Project Requirements: A WiFi engineer will conduct an assessment of your space. This includes analysing the layout, identifying potential obstacles, and discussing your specific needs, either on-site or remotely. At this stage an experienced wireless network expert will plan the optimal cable routes for a tidy finish with cables expertly concealed, leaving your space clutter-free. It’s an opportunity to discuss your budget, any preferences around cable standards, brands and what level of overall network management you require. For our domestic clients we normally recommend Ubiquiti kit UniFi WiFi – Ubiquiti.

For most projects a site survey incurs no charge. Apart from some cases where the property or business is much larger and there are bespoke requirements.  If the

2) Quotation and booking: We will send a quote, based on the requirements discussed. As long as the requirements do not change during the installation. It covers the total cost of the entire project, parts, labor and taxes.  When you accept the quote, we will schedule the installation.

3) Installation Day: We pride ourselves on providing a respectful in-Home Service. Our WiFi set-up professionals prioritise care and respect for your space. They treat your home as if it were their own, ensuring a smooth installation process. Minimising disruption to your daily routine as much as possible. We have received lots of positive feedback positive feedback from our past customers.

WiFi Installation Day: What to Expect

Finally the WiFi installation day is here! Our fully insured WiFi technicians will do everything they can to ensure an easy as possible hassle-free experience for you and your family or colleagues.

• Respectful Service: Our friendly WiFi engineers understand the importance of your home. They conduct themselves with professionalism and respect, ensuring a positive experience.
• Neat and Tidy Finish: Externally, we meticulously conceal cables wherever possible. Internally, the equipment is PoE, eliminating the need for additional power connections. Consequently, this results in an installation with fewer cables and mains power, making it compact and neat, with very few cables or equipment on display.
• Noise planning: During the installation, short periods of drilling may be necessary. So if you are working from home during this time, kindly inform the engineers of any periods when you need to keep noise to a minimum.
• Minimal Downtime: Service on your existing network will be available right up until the new network is complete and ready for the switch over. This means just a few minutes of interruption at the end of the installation.  Followed by a swift transition to your new/upgraded network.
• Device Set-Up: WiFi technicians go the extra mile by setting up all your devices on the new network. From smartphones to smart home gadgets, they ensure everything seamlessly connects to your upgraded WiFi. Feel free to ask the techie any questions about your new network.
• Cleanup: Finally, before the engineers leave, there is a cleanup of any dust and debris. Professional WiFi engineers take care of the mess, leaving your home as clean and tidy as they found it.

Welcome to Uninterrupted Connectivity

In conclusion, connectivity is key and choosing the right local WiFi engineer is paramount. In the North West, our WiFi installation services offer not just expertise but a commitment to providing you with a home network that exceeds expectations. For homeowners in the North West with large, irregular, or heritage construction properties, the expertise of WiFi specialists ensures a network tailored to your unique needs. 

I hope this post about what to expect on your home network up-grade day when you enlist the expertise of WiFi installation specialists has been useful. And addressed your concerns.  If you would like to learn more, visit our website to get in touch with a local WiFi installation technician.

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Starlink Installation Services

Welcome to my blog, in this post we are discussing the revolutionary work Starlink installers are performing. If you reside in a remote or under serviced area where internet connectivity has been a challenge, then read on. We will be exploring the advantages of a Starlink installation integrated with a reliable whole home Wi-Fi network.

Fortunately, advancements in satellite technology have brought us solutions like Starlink, a satellite internet system that has revolutionised internet connectivity worldwide. When properly installed along with a network configured for seamless whole home Wi-Fi. Star link offers many benefits that empower users with reliable access to the internet. We’ll take a closer look the advantages of Starlink when deployed by professional Starlink installers and integrated with a hardwired robust wall-to-wall WiFi setup.  Starlink can certainly bring a game-changing experience to your doorstep, enhancing your internet connection along with with whole home Wi-Fi coverage.

The Rising Demand for Starlink Installers

With the advent of advanced technology and the growing need for high-speed internet. Starlink has emerged as a viable solution for areas plagued by poor connectivity. As the demand for this cutting-edge satellite internet service continues to rise, the need for skilled installers is more critical than ever. That is why Starlink is now a viable option to provide reliable internet access in regions where traditional internet infrastructure is limited or non-existent.

What Sets Starlink Apart:

A Starlink system offers a vast array of benefits. Making it the go-to solution for homeowners and businesses seeking a superior internet connection. Here is a list of the advantages.

Discovering a Premium Home Network

In an increasingly connected world, a strong and reliable Wi-Fi signal is essential for both work and leisure activities. However, achieving consistent Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home can be challenging, especially in larger spaces, buildings with thick walls or multiple floors. Two popular solutions for extending Wi-Fi range and ensuring reliable connectivity are setting up a home hardwired network with access points or implementing a mesh system. In this blog, we will explore the merits of hardwired access points versus mesh systems to determine the ultimate champion for the best home WiFi solution.

A hardwired network with access points involves running Ethernet cables throughout your home to connect access points strategically placed in various locations. Each access point is wired directly to your router, creating a seamless network that delivers a strong and stable Wi-Fi signal.

Mesh systems, on the other hand, rely on multiple interconnected devices, or nodes, to extend Wi-Fi coverage throughout your home. Each node acts as a transmitter and receiver, creating a mesh network.

Join us as we explore the intricacies of these options and unravel the secret to achieving high-speed, reliable, and whole-home WiFi coverage for the best home WiFi experience.

Reliability and Stability

When it comes to reliable and stable home Wi-Fi, hardwired access points prove their mettle. This is particularly important for households that rely heavily on internet connectivity for work, streaming, and other activities. A hardwired network provides a consistent and stable connection that is less likely to drop or experience interference. By establishing direct connections, they eliminate the uncertainties that can plague wireless networks. No more mysterious WiFi dropouts during crucial video conferences or sudden disconnections while streaming your favorite show. Hardwired access points provide a solid foundation, delivering consistent and dependable WiFi performance that keeps you connected at all times.

Faster Speeds

While mesh networks are designed to extend wireless coverage throughout a home, the more devices that are added to the network, the slower the overall speed becomes. With a hardwired network, each device is directly connected to the network, ensuring faster speeds and less latency.

Seamless Whole-Home Coverage

One of the key challenges in setting up a home WiFi network is achieving reliable coverage throughout your property. While mesh systems claim to offer whole-home WiFi coverage, they often fall short in delivering consistent signal strength to every corner. Hardwired access points, on the other hand, can be strategically placed throughout your home, guaranteeing reliable coverage even in the most remote parts of your house. By strategically placing access points throughout your house, you can create a comprehensive network that banishes WiFi dead zones to oblivion. From the basement to the attic, every corner of your property is engulfed in a reliable and robust WiFi signal. No more frustrating drops in connection as you roam from room to room, enjoying uninterrupted connectivity at every step.

Multiple Simultaneous Users

In High-Demand Environments, households with multiple devices and high bandwidth requirements, hardwired access points shine. They are ideal for homes with gamers, content creators, and those with a multitude of smart home devices. With their ability to handle heavy loads and simultaneous connections, hardwired access points ensure that every device receives the bandwidth it deserves. Multi users on a mesh system can create network congestion.

Customisation and Control

Hardwired access points offer a level of customisation and control that sets them apart from mesh systems. With dedicated access points strategically positioned, you have complete control over your WiFi network. You can fine-tune individual access point settings, optimize channel selection, and tailor the network to your specific needs. seamless connectivity for all your devices.

Signal Strength and Interference

Mesh systems strive to provide seamless hand-offs between nodes, the reality can be disappointing. As signals pass from one node to another, signal strength can waver, leading to potential performance hiccups. In addition, the crowded landscape of wireless signals in our modern homes can cause interference, further impacting WiFi signal strength. Hardwired access points, with their direct connections, stand strong against these obstacles, offering a more reliable and interference-free WiFi experience.

Scalability and Future-Proofing

Hardwired networks provide a solid foundation for future expansion and upgrades are also more scale able than mesh networks. With a mesh network, adding more devices to the network can lead to slower speeds and reduced performance. In contrast, a hardwired network can be easily expanded by adding additional Ethernet cables and switches, allowing for greater flexibility and scalability. As technology evolves, you can easily replace or upgrade individual access points without disrupting the aesthetics of your home. This future-proofing capability allows you to adapt to the changing WiFi landscape while maintaining the visual integrity of your living space.

Cost-effectiveness

Finally, hardwired networks are often more cost-effective than mesh networks. While mesh networks can be convenient and easy to set up, suitable for most technical abilities. They can also be expensive, particularly if you need to purchase multiple nodes to extend coverage throughout a larger or irregularly shaped home. In contrast, hardwired networks require fewer components and can be set up using affordable Ethernet cables and switches, but do require expertise for the initial set up.

The verdict: Best Home WiFi Solution

While mesh networks may be a convenient solution for some households where a quick and simple set up are a priority. However, if you’re looking for the best home WiFi solution a hardwired home network offers a number of advantages that make it a better solution for many others.  In the search for the ultimate home WiFi experience, hardwired access points emerge as the champions. With their unmatched reliability, speedy seamless whole-home coverage, scalability, aesthetically pleasant appearance and ability to handle multiple devices with ease, they offer a superior solution for high-speed and stable WiFi. So, as you asses the pros and cons, remember to consider the advantages of hardwired access points. Banish WiFi woes, and keep everyone happy with a truly supreme home WiFi experience. Enjoy uninterrupted online activities for everyone under your roof.

There you have it the Best Home WiFi Solution unveiled. If you would like further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Check out our website, drop us a mail or give us a call.

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Welcome to my blog post, today I will be discussing the various methods you could use to extend Wi-Fi to your garden office or any other building located away from the incoming source of the internet.

Extending your Internet Connection

There are many reasons to share an internet connection from one building to another. Projects such as garden offices, garage conversions, annex buildings, granny flats, shed workshops, portable offices, and connectivity for holiday accommodation, to name a few. All require robust, stable, and secure internet connectivity. WiFi can also be extended to outdoor areas to reliably access the internet from your garden patio, driveway, pool/bar area, or hot tub location. If you are looking for solutions to such problems, read on. Depending on your situation, a resolution may require one or a combination of the technologies discussed in this post on how to extend Wi-Fi outdoors to the garden studio.

Trends in Working from Home

As more people shift towards working from home, outdoor garden offices have become increasingly popular. However the convenience of working from your garden poses new challenges, one being how to get a stable internet connection over distance and past obstacles. In this blog post, we will discuss the best ways to extend Wi-Fi to your outdoor garden office.

What to Consider

The best solution for your outside building connectivity project depends on several factors. For example, distance to your outbuilding, continuity, and quality of the connection. Is the internet required for a purpose where dropouts and lag can be tolerated or is the garden studio used for a home office or online gaming where low latency and fast speeds are paramount? Let’s look at the pros and cons of the 4 best ways to extend WiFi to your Garden Studio, annex building, garage conversion, or portacabin. Further in this post, we will also look at the solutions that are not recommended and the reasons why. 

Power Line Adapters

Power line adapters use electrical wiring to create a network by plugging them into your electrical wall sockets. This is a simple way of extending your network. However, there are limitations as to where you can extend internet. If the garden building is on the same ring main, then power line adapters are more likely to work. Due to the ease of installation, it’s the lowest-cost option. If you’re not too concerned with occasional dropouts and don’t need a reliable connection all the time. This is the best solution if you’re on a budget and a solid connection is not imperative.

Hardwired Ethernet Cable

Hardwired Ethernet cable with a wireless access point is a very reliable method of getting fast and secure WiFi reliably to your Garden building. It is guaranteed to distribute the internet at speeds and quality similar to the speeds received straight to your router. The outbuilding should ideally be less than 100 meters away from the router for optimum throughput and cost efficiency. Opt for a wireless access point to enable the seamless hand off functionality. This means where you have a correctly configured network. Your phone or tablet will automatically connect as if you were in your home. With this solution you can also utilise WiFi calling, handy if mobile signal is a problem.

To install Wi-Fi in your garden office, use good quality external grade Cat 5e or Cat 6 cable. The correct cable needs to have a solid copper core with the right type of plastic sheath, to protect it from the rain and UV. This will not only give you the fastest most reliable throughput but will also provide a solution to connect your garden office to the internet for durability and longevity.

Pros

• Fastest throughput speeds with very low latency
• No ongoing equipment rental costs
• No unsightly wires and kit cluttering up your home
• Uses PoE – no power source required for the wireless access point 

Downsides

• Unsuitable for distances over 100m
• Some obstacles may prevent the cable run

Point to Point (PtP/P2P) or Wireless Bridge

It is possible to share wifi over long distances with PtP or multi-point network bridging technology. It works like a long-range WiFi extender for outdoors. A basic system requires a sender and a receiver, these devices need to be positioned high up, usually attached to a building or pole. A clear line of sight is required between the sender and receiver. The signal will be adversely affected when there are obstacles such as trees or buildings.

This solution is useful if you wish to share internet between cabins located long distances away from each other. A more complex system can be implemented in a holiday park where you need to distribute internet from the main source or hub to many lodges or caravans. Many businesses, campuses, hospitals, and apartment complexes use Point-to-Point WiFi Bridge systems because they can offer a lot of flexibility in terms of bridging and spreading an internet connection from a single source of internet.

Point to Point systems delivers fast internet, without too much loss of bandwidth and latency from the main hub. However, they are not as fast as a cabled solution. They are reliable delivering a good quality of service. One of the downsides to this system is that there is a single point of failure so if the main sender goes down then all of the others will lose internet, it doesn’t happen very often but should be considered when selecting a suitable solution.

Pros

• Coverage over a long distance or large area
• Fast connection, not too much loss from the router
• Secure
• Cost-effective over large distances/areas compared to a cabled solution
• Cover larger distances in undeserved and remote areas

Downsides

• Doesn’t support the fastest throughput speeds
• Possibly a single point of failure could take the internet offline for all users

4G or 5G with Unlimited Data SIM

You can insert a SIM card into a mobile router or a 4G/5G router.  If there is no sim slot you could check to see if it supports a USB dongle that can accept a sim card.  Also, you will need a compatible mobile data plan from a mobile network operator that has good 4 or 5G coverage in your area.

This can be a good solution if there is no way of getting an Ethernet cable or there is no clear line of sight for PtP bridging. For this solution to work you will need good mobile data coverage in the location and don’t mind a monthly cost for the unlimited data sim. This is also slightly less reliable as the bandwidth is dependent on the availability and quality of mobile signal in your area and can vary at any given time. 

Pros

• A good option when a cable and PtP are not viable
• Low installation costs
• Would prefer to pay monthly
• Can provide a reasonable solution if continuous connectivity not essential

Downsides

• Won’t work adequately if mobile signal coverage is an issue in the area
• There is an ongoing monthly cost
• May experience down time or slow speeds depending on other usage at the time

Internet Connectivity to Portable cabins

Depending on the location of the temporary office, distance from the main internet connection obstacles in-between and the ability to route an Ethernet cable. Its possible to implement one or more of these solutions to connect portable offices to the main network. Providing a robust and stable connection capable of supporting multiple users for an office set up.

Extend Wi-Fi to your Garden Office

Long-range Wi-Fi Extenders and internet boosters also known as mesh systems are not recommended as a way of reliably getting Wifi in the garden room. Mesh WiFi Extenders don’t typically boost the signal very well through walls, these systems also struggle to send the internet over enough distance to provide a usable connection outdoors. You could spend a lot of money on the system and there’s no guarantee of a continuous or stable internet connection once you have invested your money buying the kit, so for these reasons, it’s best to give the mesh/booster systems a miss.

In Summary

All things considered, the best way to get WiFi to your garden office building depends on your requirements. Are cable routes available and is the outbuilding less than 100 meters away from the router? Where there is a cable route, a hardwired cable will deliver the fastest, most reliable, and cost-effective internet connectivity for one or more end users. Where the building is over 100 meters or you would like the users to connect from multiple locations dotted around a large area, then a PtP wireless bridge would be a good choice, providing near full throughput from the router. 

If you require internet in your garden bar, hot tub area, driveway, or for WiFi calling if your mobile cellular signal is poor. Outdoor access points can be used to solve these problems, but only viable if these areas are close to the main building. Where a temporary or lower installation cost solution is required a mobile unlimited SIM will give a decent internet service. Providing there is good 4 or 5G in the area and the odd dropout or service slowdown can be tolerated. The most budget-friendly but high-risk solution is power line adapters. However, be prepared that once you have made the purchase and installed them, the connectivity may not be fit for purpose or work at all. Depending on your home’s electrical wiring. They can provide an unstable solution that may not be reliable enough for remote working or gaming. Buying a WiFi Booster for your garden or extending the WiFi using a mesh system is not recommended, in our experience, they just don’t amplify signal well over such distances and they don’t perform well at getting a good Wi-Fi signal to penetrate walls.

I hope you have enjoyed this post on How to Extend WiFi to your Garden Office . If you would like further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Check out our website, drop us a mail or give us a call.

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When should you consider that it’s time to upgrade your home Wi-Fi? In this post, I discuss 5 of the tell-tale signs that your household’s tech needs have outgrown the capacity of your current home Wi-Fi system. We discuss methods to check if your broadband subscription needs upgrading or there are line faults that need fixing. If the five common home technology scenarios discussed are familiar occurrences. Finally I discuss how to restore online harmony. With a strong and stable connection throughout your home.

The 5 Signs it’s Time to Upgrade your Home Wi-Fi

Fluctuating Audio/Video Quality During On-line Video calls

Have you been in the middle of a video call with colleagues when your audio suddenly distorts and becomes inaudible? Or the video image freezes and you drop out of the conversation completely. It’s embarrassing and sometimes costly. This random problem often leaves you wondering why some times your Wi-Fi connection seems ok. Then other times you can barely manage to get anything done around slow connectivity and complete disconnects.

Buffering Entertainment Systems

Have you ever settled down to stream your favourite series and found yourself watching the buffering circle turning? This irritating situation is a symptom of your smart TV not receiving an adequate Wi-Fi signal to download the content quickly enough.

Lag During On-line Gaming

This common issue occurs when the device connected to the Wi-Fi is not communicating fast enough with the router. Therefore, the experience is a noticeable lag when online gaming. The most efficient and fastest method to transport data is via a cable from the console, PC, or tablet to the router. Where this is not possible, most up-to-date, correctly configured home Wi-Fi installations will support data throughput so that the gaming experience is unaffected.

Home Security System Disconnects

Many modern CCTV and Alarm systems rely on a consistent and stable connection from the device to the internet. For example, if your cameras frequently drop offline, you will find that most features will not function as intended. You may get flaky video when viewing your property remotely or missing footage if you ever want to playback the footage.

Wi-Fi not Reaching Outside 

Technology continues to provide us with many helpful and convenient applications both in and around the home. There are many reasons why it is increasingly important to have a strong and consistent internet connection outdoors. Examples include charging and communicating with your EV (Electric Vehicle) and continuous and reliable functioning of home security systems. Adequate Wi-Fi reach is essential for music and internet access in your garden patio, bar, or office areas. All these examples are reliant on reliable and consistent Wi-Fi. Distance from the router is a common reason for this problem and a sign that an upgrade to your home Wi-Fi network is overdue.

Possible Reasons

If one or more of the above scenarios blight your online time. Your current setup may be creaking under the strain. There is a good chance that it’s time to upgrade your home Wi-Fi network. There are a few possible causes to consider. One or more of your Network devices could be overloaded and not have enough capacity to cope with the activity. Other things to consider are a home network bottleneck or a problem with the broadband service to your home. In most cases, the root cause of home internet connectivity issues is the distance to the nearest Wi-Fi router, booster, or access point.

Do I Upgrade my Broadband Subscription or Overhaul my Home Wi-Fi Set up?

Technology is continually advancing, so it makes sense that your home Network should also be up-to-date to best support your tech. Wi-Fi 6 is the latest network protocol. It provides a greater streaming capacity for all your Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices to communicate effectively with your router. Wi-Fi 5 is still a viable protocol and supports ample capacity, speeds, and device compatibility. Meeting the performance needs of most households. Leading us to the next question; do I upgrade the broadband subscription or optimise and distribute my bandwidth more efficiently?

You can assess if your home has reached broadband capacity by following our handy guide How to Test the Wi-Fi Signal Strength in your Home.

This blog walks you through testing broadband to your property. Then compare the strength and quality of Wi-Fi signals in various locations around your home.  

How to Upgrade your Home Wi-Fi

If the bandwidth to your home is ample reliable and consistent. You might be planning a new tech purchase, signing up for a streaming subscription, smart home automation, installing a security system, or purchasing an electric car. Bearing in mind these will all add extra overhead to your network. The next step is to consult a professional Wi-Fi engineer to assess how to distribute the available bandwidth where you need it.

In conclusion, installing a quality home network, correctly, will provide the infrastructure to support all your devices and systems to their optimum potential. It’s worth overhauling your home network infrastructure to prevent any pesky, annoying, and sometimes embarrassing connectivity issues. Now you can easily spot the signs that it’s time to upgrade your home Wi-Fi. If you would like further information, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Check out our website, drop us a mail or give us a call.

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How to Test WiFi Signal Strength in your Home

Welcome to our blog post on how to test WiFi signal strength in your home. In this post, we will be looking at the free online tests that you can run.  As well as taking a closer look at the most meaningful measures of WiFi, signal strength, consistency, and throughput. And how that translates to dropouts, lag, and buffering on your network.

The fastest and simplest way of checking the quality of your wireless network is the WiFi signal indicator icon. The more bars you have the stronger the WiFi signal is being received by the device. However, signal strength alone is not an indication of quality, a user can still experience a frustrating time while trying to get things done online.

What to Test on your Network

When deciding how to test WiFi signal strength in your home lets concider the common issues. These can be characterised by high network latency (lag), weak signal (Poor reach), and or low throughput (speed). For example, when you are gaming online with high latency. You tell your character to walk, there is a delay before they move. Or you’re connected to video calls and suffering poor video and audio quality. This is lag and is the symptom of high latency. Latency is how fast data travels to a destination (server) and back again. i.e. the total round trip of a packet of data.

A weak signal is normally easily identified by the signal strength bar indicator. Problems can be intermittent depending on the distance from the nearest WiFi point or router. Other environmental conditions can affect this also. This is discussed in more detail in another post 4 Causes of poor WiFi in your Home.

If your network isn’t fast enough to meet the demands of its users at any given time then you will experience buffering. This is the reason you are waiting for Netflix to download enough of the stream before it can start or resume the program. The network speed test measures the time it takes for a certain amount of data to travel from a destination i.e. a server to your device this is the download speed. The upload speed checks how quickly your device sends data back to a server. 

How to check the Broadband Service to your Property

The first step in this how to test WiFi signal strength guide, is to establish a base line. This is done by checking the throughput and jitter you are receiving into your property. There are many free browser based online, speed tests you can use. Look out for one that measures the download/upload speeds and jitter. Cloud Flare is an example of a site that measures jitter, there are many others out there to choose from.

Many factors may affect the results of your speed tests. For example the device, time of day, and the speed test tool can all add variables. That’s why it’s best to keep these things consistent if possible. Use a laptop if that’s possible as you will be able to test your router directly to get a baseline as to what speed and pings you are receiving straight to your property from your ISP (internet service provider).

First of all plug an Ethernet cable from your laptop directly into your router and run the online speed test. 

Check that the download speed is reasonable for the broadband package that you have. For smooth gaming and video calls, a jitter of no more than 30ms is adequate. The results will vary depending on the time of day so it’s best to take an average over a few days. If you’re consistently not getting the required results then contact your ISP for a diagnostics session.

How well is your Internet Distributed around your Property?

Now you have a baseline to compare your results to. You will need to know how to test WiFi signal strength in and around your property. The next step is to unplug your laptop from the router and connect to your WiFi network. Move around your house making a note of the upload, download, and jitter readings in various locations. If you suspect you have WiFi black spots then run the test from these locations. Where the download and upload are much less in certain areas then you know that you have problems with the quality of the signal or signal reach. A high jitter in the area means you have a problem with network interference, blocked signal, or packet loss flooding the network.

If you are experiencing a big loss in speed or the jitter is higher than desirable. Check which access point you are linked to. Your network might not have the roaming feature or it isn’t handing off correctly. Or you might not be connected to the closest access point.

How to Test WiFi Signal Strength – Pinpointing the Bottlenecks

A slow or jittery network can still show full bars on the signal indicator, this isn’t always the full picture. If you’re experiencing issues with your internet connectivity, it’s worth spending the time to find out where your bottleneck is.  

If the problem is within your home, its time to review and possibly upgrade or expand your existing network infrastructure. Mesh systems typically do a good job of boosting the signal strength but not necessarily the signal quality. Expanding your WiFi reach using boosters increases latency and reduces throughput at each node. Distributing a more and more distorted signal at each node.

Just because you are located further away from the router doesn’t mean that you should suffer from poor service. 

Hardwired access points will distribute internet more effectively. Meaning you can expect to see throughput and latency at speeds much closer to what is received to your property.  

I hope you have found this post on how to test WiFi signal strength in your home helpful. Check out our website for further information, and of course drop us a mail, give us a call, or complete the contact us form for further information.

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