Tech Tips
22nd December 2024
If you’re experiencing slower speeds over the festive period, there could be a simple (but surprising) reason for it.
At Grain, we’re well versed when it comes to troubleshooting your holiday connectivity issues. And the true culprits might surprise you. Those twinkling Christmas lights wrapping your windows? They’re secretly waging war on your wi-fi signal. Keep reading to find out more…
The festive interference you never saw coming
Your jazzy decorations could be the stealth saboteurs of your internet connection. LED Christmas lights operate on the same frequency as many wi-fi routers, creating unexpected signal interference. Moving your lights just three feet away from your router can dramatically improve your connection.
But that’s just the beginning.
The great Christmas Day device pile-up
Remember last year when Auntie Susan’s family showed up with their arsenal of devices, all still auto-connecting from last Christmas? Those forgotten devices lingering on your network aren’t just digital ghosts of Christmas past – they’re actually hogging your bandwidth.
Pro tip: Start fresh this festive season with a password change. Yes, you’ll face the dreaded “What’s the wi-fi password?” chorus but consider it your chance to decide who makes the ‘nice’ list for your network. Nothing says “seasonal boundaries” quite like selectively sharing your new password.
The phantom unplugging
Last December, we handled a number of panic-stricken calls about dead connections. The cause? Well-meaning relatives unplugging routers to make room for phone chargers or Christmas light extensions. Yes, really.
Take preventive action:
- Label your router’s power cable
- Use a dedicated power strip for networking equipment
Smart Solutions for Seasonal Strain
- Schedule your system updates before the festivities begin
- Consider a wi-fi extender for larger homes hosting multiple guests
- Change your wi-fi password ahead of the festive frenzy, because a clean network is a happy network.
- Gatekeep your new password like your life depends on it. And remove users once they leave.
5. Gaming Gear: A Must for All Ages
Gaming isn’t just for teens; it’s a major pastime for all ages. Get the gamer in your life a Nintendo Switch OLED, perfect for high-resolution play at home or on the go. For those with a next-gen console, accessories like Sony’s DualSense Edge Wireless Controller or top-quality VR headsets can elevate their gaming experience. Whether they’re casual or hardcore, gaming gifts bring serious fun to the holiday season.
The Bottom Line
Your Christmas connection doesn’t have to suffer this season.
Remember, if you send this blog to your technophobic family members now – you’re likely to get fewer tech support questions later. And isn’t that the greatest gift of all?