People spend money on a fancy new router and then hide it behind the TV, in a closet, or on the floor in a corner. Then they wonder why the Wi-Fi still drops in the bedroom. Often the problem isn't the hardware. It's the location. Where you place a router can matter more than how much you paid for it.
Why placement makes such a big difference
Wi-Fi signals spread out from the router in all directions and weaken as they pass through walls, floors, and furniture. Thick walls, metal, and water (including fish tanks and even crowded bookshelves) all eat into the signal. A great router in a bad spot can perform worse than a cheap one placed well.
Common placement mistakes
- In a corner: Half your signal goes straight out the wall to the neighbors.
- On the floor: Signals travel better when the router is up high.
- Inside a cabinet: Enclosures block and reflect the signal.
- Next to a microwave or cordless phone: These cause interference.
The sweet spot
Aim for a central, elevated, open location, like a shelf in a main hallway or living room. The goal is to put the router as close to the middle of your home as possible so the signal reaches every room more evenly.
A quick test
Move the router, then walk around with your phone and watch the signal bars or run a quick speed test in each room. A few minutes of experimenting can fix dead zones you've lived with for years.
The takeaway
Before you buy a new router, try moving the one you have. The cheapest upgrade is often just a better spot.