MANILA -- Ask any Filipino about his top priorities at home, and there's a high probability that a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection will be mentioned.

With everything going digital -- from news to entertainment -- people find it imperative to have their own Internet connection at home. And many opt for a Wi-Fi connection, given the number of mobile devices in their households.

Since most now rely on the Internet, we couldn't stand weak Wi-Fi signal and poor coverage. We often end up spending all day ranting to our Internet service provider, but are you sure the problem isn't something you can personally solve?

Before going "beast mode" against your service provider, here are some of the things you should check first:

1. Physical obstructions

Since Wi-Fi signal travels through the air, it is highly susceptible to different types of interference and obstructions. Examples of these are concrete and steel walls, mirrors, and insulation materials.

So before installing a Wi-Fi router, it is best to consult your service provider first and tell them the structure of your home, as well as the materials used in building it. This way, they can help you strategize where it is best to install your router.

2. Presence of other electronic devices

You may not realize it, but your washing machine, refrigerator, TV, and other electronic devices can also cause signal interference.

The impact that electrical interference has on the signal depends on the device's proximity to the Wi-Fi access point. However, advances in wireless technology have reduced the impact of electronic devices to Wi-Fi strength. So this should no longer a problem unless you have an outdated router.

3. Outdated router

When was the last time you updated your router? Just like all electronic devices, your router also needs maintenance and upgrades to make sure it functions well.

Some networks can only accommodate a finite number of bandwidth. So if there are too many devices connected to the network, they might end up competing for bandwidth. This then results in slow data speeds and overall poor performance.

4. Network range

Routers have limited range, so devices used outside of that range may have patchy signal or not connect at all. On the other hand, the devices close to the router will utilize the Wi-Fi the most.

So, make sure that the Wi-Fi access point is strategically located at the middle of your house if you want a well-distributed Wi-Fi signal.

5. Absence of an ultimate solution

Beyond fixing your walls, purchasing a new router and relocating it, these easy fixes do not give you an ultimate solution for your Wi-Fi problems.

There is still a need for a long-term fix that will ensure a strong Wi-Fi coverage at home. Once we find it, we will definitely spread the news.

If you also got other ideas on how to improve the stability and coverage of your Wi-Fi at home, send us your suggestions and let’s spread this awareness for the need for a whole home Wi-Fi solution.