Changing Your Router Channel

Wi-Fi Frequencies and Channels

Wi-Fi routers transmit signals using the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. 2.4 GHz connects over longer distances but at lower speeds, while the 5 GHz frequency provides faster speeds over shorter distances. Both frequencies are divided into digitally labeled channels. When you're surrounded by a large number of Wi-Fi signals, such as from a neighbor's house, it slows down the Wi-Fi channel, resulting in lower speeds for everyone.

Most routers allow you to manually change the channel so you can choose a less crowded frequency and potentially increase Wi-Fi speeds.

How to change your router's channel

This process is easiest on a PC or Mac, but can also be done on a tablet or mobile device.

1. Open a web browser: Use Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.

Enter your router's IP address: Type your router's IP address into the address bar of your browser. Most routers have the IP address (listed as the router login details) as well as the username and password required to log in. The most common router username is “Admin” and the password is “Admin”. The IP address usually starts with http:// followed by a sequence of four numbers separated by dots (e.g. http://123.456.1.1) . Your router will have its own unique address.

1. If your router does not have a sticker, refer to the documentation that came with it or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
2. Press Enter: After entering the IP address (e.g., http://123.456.1.1). Your browser may display a warning screen at this point; simply click Continue.
3. Enter the router's user name and password: Enter the user name and password, being careful to be case sensitive. This information can usually be found on a sticker on the router. If you cannot find it, consult the documentation or contact the manufacturer.
4. Access Wireless Settings: The exact name and location of this option may vary by router brand. For many popular brands, you can find “Wireless Settings” under “Advanced Settings”. If you need help, consult your router's manual or ask a tech-savvy friend or family member for assistance. Depending on your Wi-Fi service, you may have both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. If this is the case, you can change the channels for both bands by following the instructions below. If there is an Auto-connect option, be sure to turn it off so that you can manually set a different Wi-Fi channel. Auto Connect is usually located in the Wireless Settings.
5. Click Channels.
6. Change the Wi-Fi channel: Set the Wi-Fi channel to 1, 6, or 11, as these are usually the least congested channels. If your router is already using one of these channels, switch to the other channel.
7. Click Save or Apply: After saving the settings, the router may reboot. Let it restart and reconnect to your Olafus device.

If you cannot change the router channel manually

Some models of routers do not allow manual channel changes. If you are having trouble accessing the channel controls, contact the router manufacturer for assistance. Find the manufacturer's name, look up their customer service number, and ask for help changing the Wi-Fi channel to 1, 6, or 11. If the router is already set to one of these channels, ask them to switch the router's Wi-Fi channel to the other channel.