From smart home devices to tablets, smartphones, and wearables, it seems as though a new piece of tech emerges on the scene nearly every week. Whether you’re someone who likes to hop on the latest trends or chooses each new piece of gear with care, odds are good that you’ll find yourself connecting a new device to your Home’s WiFi sometime in the near future.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always as easy as it seems.
Thanks to the variety of types of home tech we use and the different ways that they utilize the internet, each device requires specific steps to connect to your router and get a connection. If you’re ready to tackle connecting your new device, keep reading to learn a few tips.
Follow the Right Steps for Connecting Your New Device
If you’ve connected enough devices to your home’s WiFi in the past, it’s easy enough to assume that you’ll be able to figure out how to connect your latest one as well. But whether you’ve only ever connected a single device or have previously connected dozens, don’t assume that this new connection will be the same as the last.
Each internet-enabled device features a unique set of steps users have to take in order to connect their device to their home’s internet connection. The steps taken to connect a new printer, for instance, will be very different than those for connecting Chromecast, speakers, or a smart home device.
When you’re ready to start connecting your new tech to the web, look for the specific instructions for how to connect devices to your home’s WiFi, and follow them step by step. This will make the entire process go much smoother and faster than simply guessing your way through it.
Consider Your Router Placement
Before you ever start connecting new devices to your home’s WiFi, consider the placement of your router. Where your router is placed in your home will have an impact on where you can connect devices, and how strong your connection will be. Most standard routers do reach up to 150 feet indoors, and up to 300 feet outdoors. However, the structure of your home and obstructions like walls and floors can impact your signal and shorten it even more.
Placing your router close to the area of your home where you typically connect to the web can help you connect to new devices easier. If you use devices throughout your home, you may need multiple routers or boosters in order to get a strong connection.
Always Secure Your Home’s WiFi
Having too many devices connected to your home’s WiFi can make it impossible to connect your new home device. And if your home’s WiFi isn’t secured and you have neighbors logging on, you’ll likely quickly stretch your connection thin.
Securing your home’s WiFi will not only lock out unwanted devices but will also help to keep you and your family safe while enjoying your new tech. Choose a unique password for your WiFi, keep your router’s software up-to-date, and ensure that you have a good firewall to stop hackers from accessing your network.
Connecting New Devices to Your Home’s Existing WiFi
Connecting your newest device to your home’s existing WiFi doesn’t have to be a challenge. Put these tips to work to ensure a fast, secure, and reliable connection for all of your devices.