Simple settings and security tweaks can speed up home Wi‑Fi, tech columnist says

A handful of straightforward adjustments to home routers and connected devices can noticeably improve Wi‑Fi speed and reliability, according to a technology column published on Fox News. The guidance ranges from repositioning hardware to changing wireless channels and tightening security settings, while the FBI has warned that outdated routers are being actively targeted by hackers.

The advice, presented in a CyberGuy column by technology journalist Kurt "CyberGuy" Knutsson, emphasizes immediate, low‑cost actions that require no additional apps or subscriptions. Recommended first steps include placing the router in a central, elevated, open location to avoid obstructions, restarting the router for 30 seconds to refresh connections, and ensuring router firmware is up to date so performance fixes and security patches are applied.

Beyond placement and reboots, the column and security guidance advise reducing the number of devices actively connected to the network to free bandwidth, switching to the 5 GHz band or a less congested wireless channel to avoid interference from neighbors, and deploying a Wi‑Fi extender or mesh system to eliminate dead zones in larger homes. The column notes that older routers may not support newer Wi‑Fi standards and that upgrading hardware can yield significant speed and capacity improvements.

Security measures are presented as both performance and safety steps. Changing default administrative passwords and renaming the network SSID can reduce the chance that attackers easily identify device models or log into settings. Enabling the strongest encryption supported by the router, preferably WPA3 or at least WPA2, helps prevent unauthorized access that can consume bandwidth. The column also recommends disabling features such as WPS, monitoring connected devices through the router's admin interface, and using MAC address filtering as additional controls where appropriate.

The FBI alert mentioned in the column underscores the urgency of keeping firmware current or replacing routers that no longer receive updates. Manufacturer updates routinely patch vulnerabilities that could be exploited to gain persistent access to a home network. Regularly checking the router's admin panel for updates, or enabling automatic updates when available, is a straightforward mitigation.

Other practical steps described include reducing interference by distancing the router from microwaves, cordless phones and Bluetooth hubs; pausing large automatic updates or cloud backups during peak usage; and scheduling routine reboots to clear system memory and refresh connections. The column also highlights that background apps on phones, tablets and computers can consume bandwidth, so pausing or limiting those processes can improve user experience during video calls, streaming or gaming.

For users concerned about privacy and security beyond the home network, the guidance recommends using a reputable virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt traffic, especially on public Wi‑Fi, and installing antivirus software on all devices to detect and remove malware that could compromise network performance or data security. The column suggests selecting VPN providers with no‑logs policies and antivirus solutions rated well by independent testers.

The column frames the recommendations as cumulative: each adjustment can add up to a noticeably smoother connection, and users should begin with the easiest changes before moving to hardware upgrades or more advanced security configurations. It also cautions against ignoring basic maintenance; default passwords, outdated firmware and unsecured networks remain common entry points for attackers.

Technology experts say the steps reflect widely accepted best practices across industry guidance and consumer networking advice. Router placement, channel selection and the choice between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands are longstanding factors affecting signal strength and interference. Mesh networking and extenders have become more common as households adopt more devices and streaming consumes larger shares of available bandwidth.

The column and cited security notices underline a broader trend: as homes become more connected, routine network hygiene—strong passwords, timely updates, and awareness of device behavior—matters for both performance and safety. Users who follow the suggested changes should see fewer interruptions and lower risk of unauthorized access, while those with persistent issues may need to consult an internet service provider or consider replacing aging equipment.