---
title: Home Wi-Fi Tips from Wi-Fi Engineers | IPTel
description: Wi-Fi engineers' tips for better home Wi-Fi — choosing the right router, router placement, mesh systems and testing your speed.
image: https://blog.iptel.com.au/hubfs/Hotel%20Room%20Wi-Fi.jpg
---
[.png?width=200&height=59&name=IPTellogo-byline-2020-dark-v2-pnd-optimised-500%20(1).png "IPTellogo-byline-2020-dark-v2-pnd-optimised-500 (1)")](https://iptel.com.au)
- [Home](https://iptel.com.au/)
- [Solutions](https://iptel.com.au/solutions)
Technologies
- [Cisco Access Manager](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/cisco-access-manager)
- [Cisco Catalyst Center](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/cisco-catalyst-center)
- [Cisco Meraki](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/cisco-meraki)
- [Cisco SDA Fabric](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/cisco-sda-fabric)
- [Cisco Spaces](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/cisco-spaces)
- [Everpure Storage](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/everpure-storage)
- [Industrial IoT](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/industrial-iot)
- [LAN](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/lan)
- [Security and Cisco ISE](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/security-and-cisco-ise)
- [ThousandEyes](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/thousandeyes)
- [Virtualisation](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/virtualisation)
- [Wi-Fi](https://iptel.com.au/technologies/wi-fi)
Services
- [Backup Assure](https://iptel.com.au/services/backup-assure)
- [Cisco Network Upgrades](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-network-upgrades)
- [Cisco URWB](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-urb)
- [Cisco Webex Calling](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-webex-calling)
- [Eco-Friendly Network Refresh](https://iptel.com.au/services/eco-friendly-network-refresh)
- [Network Equipment Supply](https://iptel.com.au/services/network-equipment-supply)
- [Splunk](https://iptel.com.au/services/splunk)
- [Wi-Fi Assurance Review](https://iptel.com.au/services/wi-fi-assurance-review)
- [Wi-Fi Surveys](https://iptel.com.au/services/wi-fi-surveys)
- [Industries](https://iptel.com.au/industries)
Education and Healthcare
- [Education and Campuses](https://iptel.com.au/industries/education)
- [Healthcare and Clinical](https://iptel.com.au/industries/healthcare)
- [Hospital Wi-Fi Onboarding](https://iptel.com.au/services/hospital-wi-fi-onboarding-cisco-ise)
- [Aged Care](https://iptel.com.au/industries/aged-care)
Enterprise
- [Enterprise Networks](https://iptel.com.au/industries/enterprise)
Industrial
- [Mining and Camps](https://iptel.com.au/industries/mines)
- [Utilities](https://iptel.com.au/industries/utilities)
Retail & Warehousing
- [Retail](https://iptel.com.au/industries/retail-and-stores)
- [Warehousing](https://iptel.com.au/industries/warehousing)
Entertainment
- [Stadiums](https://iptel.com.au/industries/stadiums)
- [Hospitality](https://iptel.com.au/hospitality-and-hotels)
- [MSP](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services)
Meraki
- [Meraki Access](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/meraki-access-and-security)
- [Meraki Security and SD-WAN](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/meraki-sd-wan)
Cisco
- [Cisco Campus Access](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/cisco-campus-access)
- [Cisco SD-WAN](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/cisco-sd-wan)
- [Cisco ISE](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/cisco-ise)
Security and Collaboration
- [Security Service Edge](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/security-service-edge)
- [Meeting Rooms](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/meeting-rooms-as-a-service)
Data Centre and More
- [AI Infrastructure](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/ai-infrastructure)
- [Non-Cisco Devices](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services/non-cisco-device-management)
Free Assessment
- [Managed Services Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/managed-network-services)
- [Equipment](https://iptel.com.au/services/network-equipment-supply)
Equipment Supply
- [Network Equipment Supply](https://iptel.com.au/services/network-equipment-supply)
- [Buy Cisco Equipment](https://iptel.com.au/services/cisco-equipment-supply)
- [Buy Meraki Equipment](https://iptel.com.au/services/meraki-equipment-supply)
Get Pricing
- [Get a Hardware Quote](https://iptel.com.au/services/network-equipment-supply#hardware-quote)
- [Wi-Fi AP Estimator](https://iptel.com.au/resources/wifi-access-point-estimator)
- [Blog](https://blog.iptel.com.au)
- [Resources](https://iptel.com.au/resources)
Free Resources
- [Top Wi-Fi Secrets](https://iptel.com.au/top-8-wi-fi-secrets)
- [Cisco SDA Fabric](https://iptel.com.au/the-cios-guide-to-sda-fabric)
- [Catalyst Center Enablement](https://iptel.com.au/cisco-catalyst-center-enablement)
Assessments
- [ASD Essentials Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/asd-essentials-network-assessment)
- [Cloud AI Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/cloud-ai-assessment)
- [Collaboration Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/collaboration-assessment)
- [Managed Services Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/managed-network-services)
- [Network Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/network-assessment)
- [Security Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/security-assessment)
- [Splunk Assessment](https://score.iptel.com.au/splunk-assessment)
Tools
- [Automating Meraki](https://www.automatingmeraki.com)
- [MAC Address Converter](https://iptel.com.au/resources/mac-address-converter)
- [ThousandEyes Option Tool](https://score.iptel.com.au/thousandeyes)
- [Wi-Fi AP Estimator](https://iptel.com.au/resources/wifi-access-point-estimator)
Demos and Design
- [Request a Meraki Demo](https://iptel.com.au/free-meraki-demo)
- [FREE Meeting Room Design](https://iptel.com.au/schedule-meeting-room-design-session)
- [Catalyst Center Enablement](https://iptel.com.au/cisco-catalyst-center-enablement)
- [About](https://iptel.com.au/about-us)
IPTel Solutions
- [About us](https://iptel.com.au/about-us)
- [Job Applications](https://careers.iptel.com.au/job-application)
- [Privacy Policy](https://iptel.com.au/privacy-policy)
- [Careers Blog](https://careers.iptel.com.au)
Contact Us
- [Contact Us Form](https://iptel.com.au/contact-us)
- [Email Us](mailto:sales@iptel.com.au)
Customer
- [Customer Feedback](https://iptel.com.au/customer-feedback)
- [Customer Referral](https://iptel.com.au/customer-referral)
- [Terms and Conditions](https://iptel.com.au/terms-and-conditions)
News Stories
- [Project Guardian uses Networking Infrastructure as a Sensor](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/transport-for-nsw-launches-worldfirst-sensor-trial-to-stop-rail-and-bridge-trespassers/news-story/8dc52e8fbca4c471da408e670cf0163e)
- [IPTel partners for monitoring for Meeting Rooms as a Service](https://www.commsbusiness.co.uk/content/news/highlight-partners-with-iptel-solutions)
- [Webex Monitoring with Highlight](https://itbrief.co.uk/story/highlight-iptel-add-webex-monitoring-for-meeting-rooms)
- [ITBrief with Meeting Room Monitoring](https://itbrief.com.au/story/highlight-iptel-add-webex-monitoring-for-meeting-rooms)
- [Cisco Webex Meeting Rooms Monitoring](https://telconews.co.uk/story/highlight-iptel-add-webex-monitoring-for-meeting-rooms)
- [IPTel adopts Highlight](https://itbrief.com.au/story/iptel-adopts-highlight-to-enhance-managed-services)
- [Highlight MSP Upgrade](https://datacentre.solutions/news/71753/iptel-solutions-upgrade-with-highlights-service-platform)
- [Cisco 360](https://www.crn.com.au/news/2026/networking/aussie-partners-react-cisco-360)
- [DP World Transformation](https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/about/case-studies-customer-stories/dp-world.html)
- [Cisco Managed Services](https://www.arnnet.com.au/article/1251771/how-partners-can-take-a-leap-of-faith-with-managed-services.html)
- [Project Delivery Excellence](https://channellife.com.au/story/cisco-honours-top-nz-partners-cisco-live)
- [Great Place to Work](https://greatplacetowork.com.au/companies/iptel-solutions/)
- [Wi-Fi Doesn't have to be Unreliable](https://www.techpartner.news/feature/iptel-wi-fi-doesnt-have-to-be-unreliable-494069)
Buying from IPTel
- [Buying Panels](https://iptel.com.au/professional-supply-panels)
- [IPTel Store](https://store.iptel.com.au)
- [Request a Quote](https://iptel.com.au/request-a-quote)
- [Managed Services](https://iptel.com.au/managed-services-enquiry)
Case Studies
- [DP World Video](https://blog.iptel.com.au/hubfs/Case%20Studies/DP%20World_Case_Study.mp4)
- [DP World](https://blog.iptel.com.au/dp-world-case-study)
- [Backup Assure](https://blog.iptel.com.au/backup-assure-a-disaster-recovery-case-study)
[Contact Us](https://iptel.com.au/contact-us)
This is a search field with an auto-suggest feature attached.
- There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.
## Bringing Our Wi-Fi Expertise to the Home
June 9, 2026
In today's digital age, a strong and reliable Wi-Fi connection is the lifeblood of our homes. Whether you're streaming your favourite shows, working from home, or connecting with loved ones, a well-optimised home Wi-Fi network is essential.
As experts in this space, here are some best practices for setting up and maintaining a fast and reliable home network.
-still.jpg?width=737&height=415&name=Where%20to%20place%20your%20router%20(1)-still.jpg)
QUIZ ALERT: Where do you think the best placement for a router is in the image above? The answer is in the Router Placement section below.
---
## Choose The Right Router
[2.png?width=282&height=282&name=Top%208%20Secrets%20(Instagram)2.png)](https://blog.iptel.com.au/top-8-secrets-to-great-wi-fi)The foundation of your home Wi-Fi network is the router. When selecting one, consider factors like the size of your home, the number of connected devices, and the speed of your internet plan.
A lot of providers ship you a device as part of your agreement and this may be perfect for your needs. However, for those seeking increased bandwidth and elevated performance a more powerful product may be the way to go.
Try to opt for a router that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards (like Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7) for improved performance.
A useful place to start comparing devices is [Choice.com](https://www.choice.com.au/electronics-and-technology/internet/connecting-to-the-internet/review-and-compare/wireless-routers?msclkid=e962eaeebe1b108c46c38ffcd1521497&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Sparro%20%7C%20AU%20%7C%20CHOICE%20%7C%20NB%20%7C%20G%20%7C%20Best&utm_term=best%20wireless%20routers&utm_content=Wireless%20Routers%20%7C%20Best%20%7C%20Phrase).
Related reading
- [Troubleshooting with Catalyst Center](https://blog.iptel.com.au/troubleshooting-with-cisco-catalyst-center)
- [Wi-Fi Concepts](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)
- [Wi-Fi Terminology](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)
- [Copper vs Fibre](https://blog.iptel.com.au/copper-vs-fibre)
---
## Router Placement
[.png?width=200&height=200&name=Introduction%20to%20Wi-Fi%20(Instagram).png)](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)Where you place your router matters! It's best to put it in a central location within your home, away from walls and obstructions due to the possibility of signal blockage.
Placing it too far to one side of the house will mean a weak signal at the opposing end of the property and increase the likelihood of dropouts or weak signal strength.
Elevating the router also, if possible, can help improve signal coverage. (P.S. That's the answer to our quiz above: a central, elevated spot, clear of walls and obstructions, is the best placement.)
Related reading
- [Wi-Fi Predictive Designs](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wifi-predictive-survey-wifi-heatmaps)
- [Wi-Fi Assurance Review](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wifi-assurance-review)
---
## Mesh Wi-Fi Systems
For larger homes, consider using a mesh Wi-Fi system.[.gif?width=200&height=200&name=Wi-Fi%20Terminology%20(Instagram).gif)](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)
These systems consist of multiple nodes that work together to provide seamless coverage throughout your home, eliminating dead zones.
Although more complex to set up, when you get it right the results will be fantastic.
We would definitely advise doing your research on the type of systems available and look to employ an expert.
Related reading
- [Wi-Fi Grades](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-grades)
- [Wi-Fi Concepts](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)
- [Wi-Fi Surveys](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-surveys)
- [Wi-Fi and the Cinema Story](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wifi-and-the-cinema-story)
---
## Check Your Speed Now!
Provided by [OpenSpeedtest.com](https://openspeedtest.com)
If you are noticing dropouts or poor coverage at home, then running a speed test from the device in question is critical.
It may be that two devices in the same area are operating at different speeds which could be due to the quality of Wi-Fi adapter on those devices. Another common scenario is different speeds at different times of the day. A lot of ISPs will throttle speeds at peak hours which may be a common theme you are seeing.
Making use of the speed test regularly can paint you an overall picture of the performance of your Wi-Fi network in your house.
---
## Home Wi-Fi: FAQs
### Where Should I Put My Home Router?
Centrally, up high and in the open — away from cupboards, thick walls, metal objects and the floor.
### Do I Need a Mesh Wi-Fi System?
In larger or multi-storey homes, or where walls are heavy, a mesh system with several nodes gives more even coverage than a single router.
### How Do I Check My Wi-Fi Speed?
Run a speed test close to the router and again where you have problems. A big difference points to Wi-Fi coverage rather than the internet connection.
### Should I Use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz at Home?
5 GHz is faster and less congested, while 2.4 GHz reaches further. Most modern routers handle this automatically with band steering.
---
## Bringing Our Wi-Fi Expertise to the Home: Summary
IPTel Solutions are all about Enterprise and Business Implementations of Networking and Wi-Fi services, however being an expert in this space means a lot of the same rules and advice apply in the home.
If your business is having trouble with its network, [get in touch with the team](https://iptel.com.au/contact-us) - we are here to help.
### Need Help With Your Wi-Fi?
Our [Wi-Fi survey and design team](https://iptel.com.au/services/wi-fi-surveys) designs, surveys and fixes enterprise Wi-Fi across Australia, and the free [AP Estimator](https://iptel.com.au/resources/wifi-access-point-estimator) gives you a first AP count. If that would be useful, [get in touch with the IPTel team](https://iptel.com.au/contact-us) or email [sales@iptel.com.au](mailto:sales@iptel.com.au).
#### Related Articles
###### [Wi-Fi Assurance Review](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wifi-assurance-review)
June 12, 2025
###### [Wi-Fi Terminology](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wi-fi-terminology)
Mar 12, 2026
###### [Wi-Fi Phone Dropouts](https://blog.iptel.com.au/wifi-phone-dropouts)
Aug 21, 2025
Free tool
### How Many Wi-Fi Access Points Do You Need?
Work out APs, PoE and switch ports floor by floor, using the same survey grades our Cisco wireless engineers design to. Takes under a minute.
[Try the AP Estimator →](https://iptel.com.au/resources/wifi-access-point-estimator?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=cta&utm_campaign=ap-estimator)
```json
{
"@context" : "https://schema.org",
"@type" : "BlogPosting",
"author" : {
"@type" : "Person",
"name" : "IPTel Solutions",
"url" : "https://blog.iptel.com.au/author/iptel-solutions"
},
"dateModified" : "2026-10-03T07:39:24.959Z",
"datePublished" : "2026-06-09T00:13:18.000Z",
"headline" : "Home Wi-Fi Tips from Wi-Fi Engineers | IPTel",
"image" : [ "https://blog.iptel.com.au/hubfs/Hotel%20Room%20Wi-Fi.jpg" ],
"mainEntityOfPage" : {
"@id" : "https://blog.iptel.com.au/bringing-our-wifi-expertise-to-the-home",
"@type" : "WebPage"
},
"publisher" : {
"@type" : "Organization",
"logo" : {
"@type" : "ImageObject",
"url" : "https://blog.iptel.com.au/hubfs/IPTel_Solutions_February2020%20-%20Header%20SiteMap/Images/IPTellogo-byline-2020-dark-v2.png"
},
"name" : "IPTel Solutions Pty Ltd"
}
}
```