5 objects that affect the Wi-Fi signal in your home

Slow internet? Pages won’t load, videos keep buffering, and downloading a file takes minutes instead of seconds?

Contrary to what many people think, the issue isn’t always just the service you’ve subscribed to. There may be objects or surfaces in your home that are affecting the quality of your Wi-Fi signal.

1. Mirrors
Just as this type of material reflects our image, it also reflects the signal emitted by the router. Mirrors act like a reflective shield, bouncing the signal away. If the router is placed near this type of object, it may weaken internet speed or even cause signal dropouts.

2. Water pipes
Water also interferes with Wi-Fi transmission because it absorbs the waves emitted by the router. That’s why it’s not recommended to place the router near humid areas or close to plumbing, such as bathroom walls.

3. Microwave ovens
This is the classic source of interference. Microwaves usually operate on a frequency spectrum very similar to that used by Wi-Fi signals. Avoid placing your router near a microwave to prevent interference with your internet connection.

4. Metal surfaces
Metal has properties that transmit energy more easily than other materials. Since Wi-Fi router signals are electromagnetic waves, any metal surface in your home can hinder signal transmission—especially if the router is placed on top of one.

5. Walls
It’s no secret that walls are obstacles to internet signal propagation. However, some materials cause more interference than others. For example, brick walls are less dense than concrete or plaster walls when it comes to absorbing radio frequency signals.

Also, take a look at the following list of material types and their level of Wi-Fi signal interference: