Resolving dropping WiFi connection

There are three reasons why the WiFi connection between your Linksys router and your devices such as computers, laptops, PS3™, and Xbox 360® is intermittent or is experiencing a dropping connection. These are:

  • Frequency interference from other WiFi devices
  • Low signal quality received from your WiFi router
  • The router’s firmware needs an upgrade


Frequent WiFi disconnection can be resolved by doing the following:


Before following the steps in this article, check if your WiFi devices have a stable connection when connected. To investigate the problem, check the WiFi connectivity of other WiFi devices in the network. Here's how you can check.

Reducing WiFi interference


If you are experiencing frequent disconnection from the WiFi, make sure to check the following factors as all of these can greatly affect your WiFi signals:

  • 2.4 GHz interference - Your router may be operating on the same frequency as your cordless telephone system or other nearby devices. Try to change your router’s channel to 1 or 11 (the default channel is 6) as these are considered non-overlapping channels. After changing channels, restart the WiFi devices. Learn about how you can use the Channel Finder feature of your router.

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  • Physical obstructions - Your WiFi device may be losing connectivity because of physical obstructions such as walls and floors. Try to move your devices to a different location to find a better signal.

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  • Placement of the router - It is recommended that you place your router as high off the ground as possible. When placing the router in a high location, leave a distance of 2 feet between the router antenna tips, ceiling, and wall. If your signal passes through multiple floors, place the router on the uppermost floor, and high up in the room. The most ideal location for your router would be in the central part of your house. When using your WiFi device, avoid moving closer than 18 inches from the router as this radius around the router is considered a WiFi dead zone.
  • Environment - Place the router away from large metal objects, areas with high moisture (like fish tanks or bathrooms), and electrical devices such as TVs, microwaves, and radios

 

Customizing the WiFi settings of the router

 

Default WiFi settings on your Linksys router can lead to conflicts with other Linksys routers nearby. It's advised to change your router's WiFi name (SSID) and enable WiFi security for better performance and security. Learn how to customize the different WiFi bands of your Linksys router. It is highly recommended to use WPAâ„¢ or WPA2â„¢-Personal as your security type. Other than providing better security, this will establish a stable connection with your WiFi device, especially devices with the latest technology.

 

Updating the firmware of the router

 

If the WiFi connection remains unstable after performing the steps above, you may need to upgrade your router’s firmware. Here are instructions on how to manually upgrade your router's firmware firmware. If you are using a Linksys Smart WiFi router, click here for instructions.

After applying the adjustments mentioned above to fix your WiFi connection issues, you may need to reconnect your devices to the network. Learn how to connect wireless computers to your WiFi.


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