Access Point or Second Router
In the shop, access points and routers cost about the same and look about the same. The difference is what each does with the cable coming in, and that decides how fiddly the setup will be.
Hardware
All guides
Guides
Wi-Fi, internet security, connection troubleshooting, and networking for small businesses. All written in-house.
Security
Securing a Wi-Fi Printer
Everyone changes the router password. Almost nobody changes the printer password, even though the printer keeps copies of the documents it has printed.
Troubleshooting
Smart TV Slow on Wi-Fi While the Phone Next to It Is Fine
The TV is in the same room as your phone, on the same Wi-Fi, but Netflix on the TV buffers while on the phone it doesn't. That's no coincidence, TVs really are different.
Networking
What Is Band Steering
New routers often show only one Wi-Fi name despite having two bands. That's band steering: the router deciding which device goes on which band, and it isn't always right.
Troubleshooting
Router Keeps Restarting by Itself
All the router lights go off then come back on, the Wi-Fi vanishes for a minute, then returns as if nothing happened. If this happens more than once a day, something needs checking.
For Business
Wi-Fi for Workshops and Car Washes
A workshop is the least router-friendly place imaginable: dust, heat, and air compressors. But waiting customers still need internet, and the till needs a connection that isn't affected by them.
Security
The Risk of Public USB Sockets
A USB cable carries power and data on the same wire. At a public socket, the easiest defence is not to use that socket at all.
Hardware
Scheduling Wi-Fi On and Off at the Router
Almost every router has a Wi-Fi scheduler nobody opens. One simple schedule often works better than a reminder every night.
Troubleshooting
Streaming Buffers Despite a Fast Speed Test: Here Is Why
A speed test measures a brief peak to a nearby server. Streaming needs a steady rate for hours to a distant one, two different things.
Hardware
Faulty Router Power Adapter
An adapter costing a few dollars is often the cause of a router that looks broken. The key is three figures on the label: volts, amps, and polarity.
Regulation
Internet Cable Across a Neighbour's Property
A fibre cable run across a neighbour's roof without asking is a common source of disputes, and almost always preventable with one conversation before the technician climbs the ladder.
For Business
Wi-Fi for Salons and Barbershops
In a salon, Wi-Fi isn't just an amenity: customers who are comfortable waiting are less likely to leave before their turn, and more likely to leave a review.
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