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What is a WiFi Router and how does it work?
A wireless, or WiFi, router is your gateway to the world wide web and is supplied by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) so you can be online at all times.
How does a router work?
The router (or Hub) converts data into radio waves using two frequencies: typically, the 2.4GHz frequency has the longest range while the 5GHz frequency covers short distances faster.
Where should I put my router?
The strength of your WiFi signal across your home will largely depend on where your wireless router is located. If you find your favourite shows are buffering or your WiFi signal drops at certain points around your home, it might be time to review your router. Make sure it’s properly plugged in and it’s not sitting in an enclosed space, like a TV cabinet, and facing into the room. If you live in a property with thick walls, you may need to move the router to a more central spot. Once your router is in close range of your devices you can start making the most of our broadband and TV.
What if I keep getting a bad signal?
If you’ve positioned your router properly and your devices are still losing signal, buffering or lagging then you might want to think about changing your ISP. Even the best routers can’t boost a bad broadband connection.
What is a WiFi Pod?
Instead of getting frustrated at your router, consider adding a Virgin Media WiFi Pod to your setup to increase the power of the connection around your home. Our WiFi Pods give you more reliable browsing, gaming and show-streaming power, right where you need it. And you only have to plug them in to play on.
To get the most from a WiFi Pod, simply plug it into a socket halfway between a strong-signal spot and weak-signal spot in your home. And make sure to grab our free Virgin Media Connect app. With it, you can test your speeds, keep track of all your WiFi Pods and connected devices, tackle common WiFI hiccups, get WiFi tips and loads more.
Connect two routers wirelessly
It can be a bit fiddly to connect two routers wirelessly, but is a great option for creating a reliable extended WiFi network. You’ll use your spare router to replicate the network’s signal.
Some routers may already have this functionality built-in, but if you have an older model, you may need to leave your existing router settings at ‘access point’ mode and set your second router to the ‘repeater’ option. You’ll need the instruction manual for this, but the steps are fairly straightforward.