Understanding Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a technology that allows computers, tablets, smartphones and other devices to connect to the Internet or communicate with one another without the need of a wired connection.
Most Access modems are both a modem and a Wi-Fi router in one, also known as a gateway. As a modem, it connects to the Access network for Internet access, and as a Wi-Fi router, it creates a wireless network in your home.
Internet and Wi-Fi are often used interchangeably, but it is important to understand the difference between them.
Internet, also known as the Wide Area Network (WAN), is a vast network that provides data communication between multiple connected entities around the world. Wi-Fi is a radio signal that broadcasts out to your devices, connecting them to the Internet.
A modem connects to a cable from the outside, bringing in Internet data, and then translates Internet traffic for your devices. You can connect your devices to the modem via a wired or wireless (or Wi-Fi) connection.
There are two ways to connect your devices to your modem: a wired connection uses an Ethernet cable to hardwire your device to the modem, providing extra stability. A wireless connection gives you the convenience of accessing the Internet throughout your home on smartphones, tablets, laptops and other devices.
Depending on the model of your Access modem, two Wi-Fi networks may be visible in your home, either ending in 2.4G or 5G.
If you have the Smart Wi-Fi modem, it has band steering enabled by default. This feature improves your experience by automatically connecting your devices to the frequency that offers the strongest signal.
The networks labelled as 2.4G and 5G correspond to different Wi-Fi bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. You should select the network that best meets your needs and/or is compatible with your devices.
Tip: The 2.4 GHz network is ideal for everyday web browsing and email.
Tip: The 5 GHz network is ideal for condos and apartments, as well as heavy Internet usage activities such as streaming and video games.
There are several steps you can take to improve your Wi-Fi experience at home.
Modem placement
Your modem placement in your home can have a significant impact on your Internet and Wi-Fi performance.
Connect to the best available network
Access modems have dual-band support, meaning you can use two different Wi-Fi networks, labelled as 2.4G and 5G. Each network offers advantages and are ideal for different uses.
If you do not see two separate networks, it may be because your device is older and does not support dual-band, or because your modem uses band steering, which automatically selects the best network for your device.
Understand your devices’ limitations and keep them updated
With the same amount of Wi-Fi, newer devices are usually more capable of attaining higher speeds than older devices, such as early generation smartphones and tablets. Older devices may also impact the performance of your whole network as they take longer to communicate with the modem, slowing down other devices in your home that must then wait to communicate with the modem.
Consider a different Internet speed option
If many devices access your home Wi-Fi network at the same time, you may want to consider a higher Internet speed to improve your experience. We offer several speed options to serve your needs.
Change the Wi-Fi channel
If you encounter Wi-Fi signal interference, you can change the channel on your modem. The wireless channel is set automatically by your modem, but you can select a specific channel in the advanced settings of your modem. Before you start, ensure your device is connected to the modem via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
Smart Wi-Fi
Smart Wi-Fi makes automatic network optimizations that ensure peak performance and coverage throughout your home. It identifies and correct network issues in the background, such as congestion and interference, without the need for you to act on it.
Learn more about Smart Wi-Fi
Looking for more information? Phone or email our Customer Care team so we can answer your questions and help solve any issues you are having.