Top 5 Common Wi-Fi Placement Mistakes

A fast and reliable internet connection isn’t just about having the right plan. Where you place your Wi-Fi modem or router at home makes a big difference.

At E.Tel, we often hear from customers experiencing weak signal or dead zones, and in many cases, the solution comes down to one simple thing: better placement.

Here are five common mistakes people make with their Wi-Fi setup and what you can do to fix them.

1. Placing Your Modem on the Floor

It might seem like a convenient spot, but placing your modem on the floor can limit its signal reach.

Just like a lamp doesn’t light a room well when placed on the ground, a modem on the floor won’t distribute Wi-Fi effectively across your home.

What to do instead: Place your modem on a table, shelf or desk. Ideally at least waist height and in an open area with minimal clutter.

2. Hiding It Behind Furniture

Trying to keep your modem out of sight? It’s a common habit! But unfortunately, large furniture like couches, cabinets, or entertainment units can block Wi-Fi signals.

Even soft materials can reduce performance, especially if you're relying on the modem to reach other rooms or storeys.

What to do instead: Keep your modem in a visible, open area where the signal can travel freely.

3. Storing It in a Cabinet or Enclosed Space

Enclosing your modem inside a cabinet may help with aesthetics, but it reduces airflow and can cause overheating. Not to mention it can block the signal entirely.

What to do instead: Place the modem in a ventilated, open space. This protects your device from heat build-up and allows for a stronger signal across the home.

4. Positioning It Near Electronics

Many everyday electronics like microwaves, cordless phones, baby monitors and even TVs can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal.

Placing your modem too close to these devices can result in slower speeds or sudden dropouts.

What to do instead: Keep your modem away from other large electronics, especially those that emit signals or electrical noise. If you have multiple Wi-Fi routers or extenders, ensure they’re part of the same system (like a mesh network).

5. Installing It at One End of the House

Positioning your modem in a corner room, garage or at the far end of your home might limit the range and cause signal issues in distant areas.

What to do instead: Place your modem as centrally as possible within your home. This helps distribute the signal evenly and improves performance in all rooms.

Need Better Coverage?

If you’ve followed these tips and are still experiencing issues, consider below:

• Upgrade to a higher speed plan that better suits your household's usage

• A Wi-Fi extender or mesh network for larger homes

Final Thoughts

Improving your Wi-Fi coverage doesn’t always require new equipment. Just better placement. A few small adjustments can make a noticeable difference to your speed and reliability.

If you need help with setup or want to upgrade your plan to match your home’s needs, the E.Tel team is here to help.

Explore our Home Internet plans or contact support to find the right solution for you.