Ethera

Ethera

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FAQ

What is the difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi?

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The 2.4GHz band provides better coverage and can penetrate walls more effectively, making it ideal for larger spaces. However, it is more prone to interference since many household devices, such as microwaves and Bluetooth gadgets, also operate on this frequency. On the other hand, the 5GHz band offers much faster speeds and experiences less interference, but it has a shorter range and struggles to penetrate walls. Most modern routers and devices can automatically switch between the two to provide the best possible connection.

How much internet bandwidth do I need for my business/home?

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The amount of bandwidth required depends on the number of users and the type of activities being performed. For basic browsing and email usage, a connection of 10 to 25Mbps is sufficient. If you frequently stream high-definition videos or have multiple users on video calls, a speed of 50 to 100Mbps is recommended. For homes or businesses with heavy internet usage, such as online gaming, 4K streaming, or cloud-based work, a connection of at least 200 to 500Mbps is ideal. Large businesses or high-demand environments may require gigabit speeds to ensure smooth performance.

Why is wired internet (Ethernet) still better than WiFi?

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WiFi slowdowns during peak hours are often caused by network congestion, where too many users are trying to access the internet simultaneously. This can happen within your local network, where multiple devices are competing for bandwidth, or on a larger scale when your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is experiencing high demand. Other factors that contribute to slow WiFi include interference from neighboring networks, outdated hardware, and improper router placement. Switching to the 5GHz band, using a high-performance router, and optimizing your network settings can help improve speeds during busy periods.

What is the difference between a modem, a router, and a switch?

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A modem is a device that connects your home or business to the internet through your Internet Service Provider (ISP). A router distributes that internet connection to multiple devices through WiFi or wired connections. A switch is used to expand the number of wired connections available in a network, typically in office or enterprise environments where multiple wired devices need to be connected. While some routers come with built-in modems, using separate devices often allows for better performance and more advanced features.

How can I improve my WiFi signal at home or in my business?

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To improve your WiFi signal, start by placing your router or access points in a central location away from walls, metal objects, and electronic interference. Upgrading to a WiFi 6 or WiFi 7 router can also enhance performance and capacity for multiple connected devices. Using a wired backhaul for mesh networks can provide a more stable connection compared to a purely wireless setup. Additionally, adjusting your network settings to prioritize essential applications and upgrading your internet plan if necessary can help ensure a smoother and faster connection. If your space is large or has multiple floors, professional network planning may be needed for the best results.

What is WiFi 7, and how is it better than WiFi 6?

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WiFi 7 is the latest wireless networking standard that significantly improves speed, efficiency, and reliability compared to WiFi 6. It supports speeds of up to 46Gbps, making it ideal for high-bandwidth activities such as 8K streaming and virtual reality applications. WiFi 7 also introduces Multi-Link Operation (MLO), allowing devices to use multiple frequency bands simultaneously, which reduces latency and improves connection stability. While WiFi 6 is still an excellent option, WiFi 7 offers superior performance and future-proofing for demanding applications.

What is the difference between a wired and wireless mesh network?

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A wired mesh network uses physical Ethernet cables to connect each node, ensuring a stable and high-speed connection with minimal latency. This is ideal for large buildings or offices where reliability is crucial. A wireless mesh network, on the other hand, connects nodes wirelessly, eliminating the need for cables and making installation easier. However, wireless mesh networks can experience signal loss and higher latency, especially if the wireless backhaul is weak. While both solutions can provide seamless WiFi coverage, a wired mesh network is preferred for performance and stability, whereas a wireless mesh network offers convenience and flexibility.

What is the difference between download and upload speeds?

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Download speed refers to how fast data is received from the internet, such as when you stream videos, browse websites, or download files. Upload speed, on the other hand, measures how fast data is sent to the internet, which is important for activities like video conferencing, uploading files to cloud storage, and live streaming. Most internet plans provide much higher download speeds than upload speeds because the majority of online activities require more downloading than uploading. However, if you frequently transfer large files or use cloud-based applications, it is important to have a good upload speed as well.

Do more WiFi access points always mean better coverage?

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Adding more WiFi access points does not always improve coverage and can sometimes create interference that negatively impacts performance. Proper placement, signal tuning, and network configuration are crucial to ensure optimal coverage and minimal overlap between access points. In large spaces, a well-designed mesh network or controller-managed WiFi system can provide seamless coverage without unnecessary interference. Instead of simply increasing the number of access points, it is more effective to strategically place them and optimize their settings for the best performance.

Why does my WiFi slow down during peak hours?

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WiFi slowdowns during peak hours are often caused by network congestion, where too many users are trying to access the internet simultaneously. This can happen within your local network, where multiple devices are competing for bandwidth, or on a larger scale when your Internet Service Provider (ISP) is experiencing high demand. Other factors that contribute to slow WiFi include interference from neighboring networks, outdated hardware, and improper router placement. Switching to the 5GHz band, using a high-performance router, and optimizing your network settings can help improve speeds during busy periods.