Speed up your Wi-Fi at home

These do-it-yourself router adjustments can boost your internet connection.

Few tech issues are more frustrating than slow or spotty Wi-Fi. Before you call the cable company, try these tweaks to your router to speed up your browsing and streaming.

Difficulty: ★☆☆ Easy

Move the router

Tucking your router inside a cabinet or placing it near other electronics can interfere with the signal and weaken your wireless coverage. Keep it in a central spot in your home, in an open area, and away from other devices.

Difficulty: ★★☆ Medium

Secure your network

If your Wi-Fi doesn't have a password, unwanted visitors can access it and slow down your connection. To protect your network, go to your router's admin page by typing the IP address into a web browser on your computer. Choose WPA2 as the security level and enter a strong password.

Difficulty: ★★☆ Medium

Update the software

Just like the software on your smartphone or computer, your router's software (also called firmware) needs regular updates to fix bugs and improve performance. Go to the router's admin page again and look for a firmware update option.

Difficulty: ★★★ Hard

Try a different frequency

Your router might get overloaded if too many devices in your home are connected to one frequency at the same time. If you need help learning how to switch some of your devices to a different frequency or have questions about protecting them, contact a Yahoo Plus Protect Home expert. They're available 24/7 to answer your technology questions and protect your devices.