The more connected devices we have in our homes and the more advanced the technology makes them, the slower the connections, especially during peak times when everyone in the complex or neighborhood is finishing up.
However, the technology professor offered a solution: he said to put a piece of aluminum foil behind the router. The goal is to increase your Wi-Fi speed.
Academic view
James McQuiggan is a part-time faculty member in Valencia College’s Engineering, Computer Programming & Technology Division and an advocate for KnowBe4 security awareness. Therefore, he researched and researched every aspect of technology. He reveals an interesting method to increase the speed of your Wi-Fi connection by placing aluminum foil behind the router.
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Aluminum foil for faster connection behind the router
The signal seems to weaken with the number of devices connected to the same wireless network. McQuiggan describes it as “like a shower head spraying water in all directions”. As a result, wireless signals go to unnecessary places and weaken where they already are.
In addition, objects such as walls and furniture can reduce signal strength. That’s when your router’s aluminum foil comes into play. The signal can be reflected by placing aluminum foil behind the router with the shiny side facing out. This allows him to move more deliberately, but more freely.
Additionally, you’ll have more control over the path the signal takes by crimping the aluminum foil behind the router.
Exploring theory
Despite the apparent illegitimacy of this hack, a Dartmouth research team investigated the notion and found support for Professor James McQuiggan’s theory. In their study, the researchers claimed to have created a “3D printed shape” that was “coated with aluminum.” and strategically placed it to direct the signal path. They boosted the signal by more than half in the desired locations.
Meanwhile, they reduced the signal in unwanted places by a little more than 60%.
The best way to place aluminum foil under the milling machine
What you will need:
Single-track aluminum foil (remember to completely enclose the antenna) Note that not all routers come with an external antenna.
Use the sheet to create a “C” shape, then place the aluminum foil behind the router. The shiny side must face the router from the inside of the arch. If more support is needed to keep the tarp upright, unfold the bottom section to create a stand.
Finally, go to a place where you would expect signal strength, such as the kitchen or sofa, and check the connection.
Search for “Google speed test” in the search bar of your computer or phone. Then click the blue “run speed test” button to get a report with your connection speeds.
For safety, place aluminum foil behind the router.
There seem to be advantages to using aluminum foil behind the router in addition to higher efficiency and speed.
The Dartmouth team also discovered that there could be a successful approach to secure connections using this exploit. Hackers won’t be able to access your connection if you put aluminum foil behind your router, especially if you set up your signals to avoid places where the connection is never needed. “Such physical restriction of wireless signals serves as a complementary method to existing network security measures such as encryption, thereby increasing the barrier to attackers,” the authors said.
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Test at home
It is important to note that there is no guarantee of success and that this hack will not always work. For example, Brooke tried a hack at home, but the result was disappointing. “I checked the internet speed before I started between my porch and the living room where the router is. “There was a significant difference,” she said. “Using two pieces of aluminum foil or a soda can seemed to slow down a few mops.”, but using just one sheet of foil had no effect at all. I didn’t notice much of a difference in my internet speed when I tried to move the foil or can and change the angle it was facing the router.”
Brooke went on to say that even if it didn’t work for her if you’re having trouble connecting to the Internet, it doesn’t hurt to try this approach before spending a lot of money on a Wi-Fi extender. Ultimately, Dartmouth researchers found that it was effective.” He also points out that the effectiveness of this idea depends on several variables, such as your Internet plan and the size of the area.
Other tools
Although it may seem easier to place tin foil behind the router, you can use other common household materials instead. Anything metal commonly found in the kitchen.
Beverage cans and metal baking trays are two examples. Their shape and location are the most important factors. He recommends that you “position them so that the curved, reflective part faces the area in your home where you want to boost Wi-Fi.”
Increasing signal
Since not everyone will benefit from this technique, some people may give up and worry that their connection will always be slow. Besides placing aluminum foil behind your router, other methods can help you improve your Wi-Fi connection. “While foil can help concentrate signals, it’s usually not a great solution compared to upgrading your router or relocating it more optimally,” Professor McQuiggan said.
Shutting down your router is the most popular way to restart it. If you unplug it while it’s on, it can short out, so always use the on/off switch if it has one. Another useful but expensive solution is a WiFi extender. It usually plugs into the wall, which helps extend the WiFi signal by connecting to the network.
Additionally, tools like the National Broadband Map can help you report, debug, and troubleshoot Wi-Fi connectivity issues.
It’s worth considering, although placing the foil behind the router may not always be the best solution, as it can get expensive otherwise.
In conclusion, using aluminum foil as a potential method to improve Wi-Fi signals presents an interesting DIY solution for those struggling with connectivity issues in their homes. While some research supports the theory behind this hack, individual results can vary widely depending on factors such as the specific router model, household layout, and number of connected devices. For some, like Brooke, aluminum foil did not produce a noticeable speed improvement, highlighting that this method is not a guaranteed solution for everyone.
However, the simplicity and low cost of trying this approach make it a worthwhile experiment before resorting to more expensive solutions such as Wi-Fi extenders or device upgrades. Additionally, it’s important to note that while aluminum foil can help direct and amplify signals, it’s only one of many strategies available. Users should also consider optimizing router placement, rebooting the device, or investing in better technology to get the best results.
Although aluminum foil can temporarily increase Wi-Fi connectivity, it is essential to combine this method with other best practices to maintain a strong Internet connection. Understanding the limitations of this hack and exploring different solutions will help users ensure a more reliable and efficient network in their homes.