Question 1

Why is my Wi-Fi so slow?

Accepted Answer

The usual causes: the router is in a corner, a closet or behind the TV; walls and floors block it; too many devices; or a neighbour's network on the same channel. Sometimes the internet itself is slow, not the Wi-Fi. A quick speed test next to the router tells which.

Question 2

Is it my Wi-Fi or my internet provider?

Accepted Answer

Plug a computer straight into the router with a cable, or stand next to it, and test again. If it's still slow or down, it's usually the provider or the modem. If it's fine there, the problem is the Wi-Fi reaching the rest of the house.

Question 3

I'm paying for fast internet but not getting it.

Accepted Answer

Test with a cable next to the router first. Wi-Fi speeds are often much lower than the plan, especially on older phones and laptops or far from the router. If the cable test is slow too, call the provider with your results.

Question 4

Do I need mesh Wi-Fi?

Accepted Answer

In bigger homes, homes with several floors, or houses with thick walls, usually yes: several units cover the whole house instead of one router straining from one end. In a small apartment, one good router in the middle is often enough.

Question 5

Should I use my provider's router or buy my own?

Accepted Answer

The provider's router is fine for many homes. Your own router or mesh system gives better coverage and more control, and you keep it if you change provider. Check that it's still getting updates either way.

Question 6

How much does it cost to set up Wi-Fi?

Accepted Answer

Wi-Fi for a home starts at $90 plus equipment. Offices are quoted after we've seen the space.

Question 7

How do I make my Wi-Fi safer?

Accepted Answer

Use a long Wi-Fi password, WPA2 or WPA3 security, change the router's own admin password from the default, and keep the router updated. Give guests and smart gadgets their own network.

Question 8

One computer won't connect to Wi-Fi, but everything else does.

Accepted Answer

Restart the computer and the router, then forget the network on that computer and join it again. If it still won't connect, the computer's Wi-Fi driver or adapter is the likely cause.

Question 9

What's the best internet out of town in eastern Idaho?

Accepted Answer

It depends on what reaches your place. Fixed wireless works well where there's a line of sight to a tower. Low-orbit satellite like Starlink works almost anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Cellular home internet can be a good fit near towns. We help compare what is available at your address.

Question 10

My rural internet is slow. What actually helps?

Accepted Answer

Check the plan and the equipment first, then where the dish or antenna points and how the Wi-Fi spreads through the house. Often the internet coming in is fine and the Wi-Fi inside is the bottleneck.

Question 11

Can I get the house's internet out to the shop or barn?

Accepted Answer

Usually, yes, without digging: a point-to-point wireless link between buildings carries the house's internet to the shop, and outdoor Wi-Fi covers yards and work areas. We walk the property with you first and give a written quote.

Question 12

How often should I restart my router?

Accepted Answer

Only when something is wrong: a restart clears many glitches. If you find yourself restarting it every few days, something else is wrong, like an old router or overheating, and it's worth a look.

Wi-Fi and internet questions, answered