Your Wi-Fi router is connected to the modem and enables multiple devices to connect wirelessly to your internet server at the same time. While the router needs to be cleared up regularly to get rid of history and any malware, it also needs physical cleaning.
Physical cleaning gains deeper meaning during the current COVID-19 pandemic when everything needs to be disinfected in heavy footfall places like large offices and hospitals. However, the router needs special care when disinfecting as you cant use the regular methods. The best way to clean your router physically is with Lysol or Clorox fluids, which are known to kill 99.9% of germs. Spray this disinfectant cleaner onto a paper towel and wipe down all outer surfaces of the router. Allow it to air-dry. Cleaning the router this way ensures a safe and clean environment for patients and staff in healthcare organizations.
You can give a fresh clean start to your router by giving it a reboot too. Schedule a time to turn your router on and off regularly. This way, when you restart your router you end up clearing out any digital cobwebs that might have accumulated in your Wi-Fi device. It will also help in improving slow internet speed that have been driving you up the wall.
Once you are done maximizing your router’s performance, secure your Wi-Fi network by creating a strong password. This will prevent clogging of your Wi-Fi router by unauthorized users while preventing data loss too.
You could also consider disabling slower wireless protocols to improve the performance of the router. If your internet-enabled devices and router support 802.11n protocol, then you could consider disabling 802.11g and 802.11b. This will prevent your devices from connecting to the latter protocols and subsequent slowing down of speeds.
Alternatively, consider moving to the 5Ghz bands to improve your router’s network speeds and reduce lags. Most home routers work at 2.4 GHz bands which can unfortunately get crowded by signals from microwaves, baby monitors, cordless phones, etc. Going for the lesser used 5GHz band can enhance router performance and lower interference considerably.
You could consider placing your router in an open area too, to reduce signal loss.
