Common mistakes: 12 things you should never place near your WiFi router

Problems with slow internet or unstable connections are not always the fault of the provider.

Often, the problem lies in the home, and more specifically in the way the router is positioned.

A strong wireless network is highly dependent on location, as the signal is affected by the surroundings.

A Wi-Fi signal basically works like radio waves that propagate in all directions.

However, they are weakened or interfered with by materials such as metal, water, concrete, furniture and electronics.

Many people choose to hide their router away for aesthetic reasons, but this can lead to significant issues with network stability and range.

Here are 12 places and situations you should avoid

1. On the floor
   The signal propagates less well from a low position and has to penetrate more obstacles. A position at chest height or higher is preferable.
2. In the vicinity of pets
   Pets can knock over the router, pull on cables or block the signal. An elevated and stable location protects both equipment and connection.
3. Near energy-saving bulbs and fluorescent lamps
   These can emit electrical noise, especially when switched on and off, which can interfere with the signal.
4. Near white goods and microwave ovens
   Devices such as refrigerators, washing machines and microwave ovens can cause interference as they operate on the same frequency band as many Wi-Fi devices.
5. With magnetic stripes, like key cards and payment cards
   Although the risk is limited, electronic devices can affect magnetic data. It’s a good idea not to use your router to store cards.
6. Closed cabinets and tightly packed shelves
   Routers emit heat and must be able to ventilate freely. Placement in cabinets, behind books or covered with paper can lead to overheating and an unstable signal.
7. Behind large furniture or bookshelves
   Cramped objects reduce signal strength. The router should be placed freely and as centrally as possible in the home.
8. In the children’s room
   For safety, sleep and security, the router should not be placed right next to the child’s bed. Instead, place it in a central room.
9. In the bedroom, especially near the bed
   While it may be convenient, noise, light and concerns about electromagnetic radiation can disrupt sleep. At the same time, the location often leads to poor coverage in the rest of the home.
10. Wireless devices such as Bluetooth and baby monitors
    Devices that use the same frequency band as Wi-Fi can cause signal interference. Therefore, avoid collecting too many wireless devices near the router.
11. By water or aquariums
    Large amounts of water absorb the signal. The router should therefore be placed away from aquariums, water containers or areas with high humidity.
12. Metal surfaces and mirrors
    These materials reflect the signal and distort or block it. Routers should therefore not be placed on metal shelves or near large mirrors.

Practical tips for better placement

The router should be placed in the center of the home, preferably at eye level or slightly above, and as freely as possible.

There should be air around it and it should be kept away from sources of heat, moisture and electrical noise.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can often see a noticeable improvement in network speed and stability without having to invest in new equipment or change your subscription.