Wi-Fi vs. Internet – What’s the Difference

While the terms “Wi-Fi” and “internet” are often used interchangeably, they are separate things.

The internet connects computers and devices to a global network and connects your household to the rest of the world.

Wi-Fi is a wireless network that connects your local devices to an internet signal without the use of a direct network cable.

The key difference is the internet is the digital space where we do everything online and Wi-Fi is your wireless connection to access the internet.

How Does Wi-Fi work with the Internet?

A Wi-Fi router connects your devices via a wireless signal directly to the internet. If you check the back of your router, you can see a connected ethernet cable. This cable is directly connected to your ISP’s network.

Internet signals are sent from data centers where they travel along the network and run through the cable to reach your Wi-Fi router. Fiber internet cables, for example, send information through quick bursts of light, achieving blazing-fast speeds.

The router interprets these signals into data that your devices can understand, allowing you to connect to the internet.

The internet speeds you receive from your provider might be quite fast, but if your router is outdated, it could limit the speed you see at home. If you’re experiencing frequent disconnects or slow speeds, you may want to see if the issue stems from your Wi-Fi.

How to Troubleshoot your Wi-Fi

If you’re experiencing slow speeds or frequent disconnections it may not be your internet connection at fault, but your Wi-Fi router. Run through this checklist if you’re dealing with an unreliable connection.

Reboot your Router

Simply unplug your router, wait for 10 seconds, and plug it back in.

Oftentimes, your Wi-Fi router needs to restart its memory and reset stalled tasks.

Optimize your Router’s Location

Distance from your router will weaken its signal. If it is obstructed by many walls or objects, this can drastically diminish your connection.

Keep the router in an open area near the location where you use your devices the most.

If the signal still isn’t strong enough, consider a Wi-Fi extender.

Increase your Bandwidth

Too many devices connected to your signal can eat up bandwidth. Computers, phones, gaming consoles and smart TVs can all use background data, even when in rest mode.

If you need to free up bandwidth, consider powering off or disconnecting devices from the network when not in use.

Avoid Interference

Other devices in your home can interfere with your signal and cause slowdowns. Some of these objects include:

–             Microwaves

–             Smart TVs

–             Gaming Consoles

–             Controllers

–             Computers

–             Bluetooth Devices

–             Fish tanks (yes, really!)

If your router is located near these obstructing devices, it can cause signal interference.

Prevent Overheating

Like most electronic equipment, it’s easy for routers to collect dust. This dust can get caked to the device and cause overheating which could completely ruin your router.

Using a can of compressed air and a soft brush, you should be able to remove any dust on the device. Just be careful to not spray the compressed air directly on the electronics, as the components could become wet and damaged.

Close Off your Wi-Fi Network

One-third of Americans have admitted to attempting to use their neighbor’s Wi-Fi. If you suspect your bandwidth is being eaten up by your neighbor, change your password to something stronger.

Use a Wired Connection

If your Wi-Fi isn’t giving you sufficient speeds, try plugging in an ethernet cable directly to your device. This is better suited for something like online gaming where you want a direct, wired connection for the most competitive speeds.

Consider Upgrading your Router

Routers have an effective lifespan of about 2-5 years. After that, slow speeds, interruptions and disconnects can happen more frequently. Check for signs that you may need a new router, for the best connection, it may be time for an upgrade.

If you’ve gone through this troubleshooting checklist and you’re still experiencing slow speeds, it may be time to evaluate your internet connection. Contact your ISP about your inconsistent connection and slow speeds. If there’s nothing they can do, it may be time to upgrade your connection.

Get Fiber Fast Speeds with Tachus

If you’re ready to upgrade from slow speeds, frequent disconnections, and spotty Wi-Fi, Tachus is here to provide blazing-fast internet that’s 100%frustration-free!

Get set up with a high-speed plan that includes Wi-Fi and mesh devices for a low, lifetime price. If your Tachus router ever experiences any issues, you can expect 24/7 support to troubleshoot or replace your device, keeping you connected.

For 100% fiber-fast speeds, sign up with Tachus today!

‍