Electricity issues can quietly mess with your network

I realized this the hard way in a small apartment in the suburbs. Every time the washing machine started, my Wi-Fi went crazy. Coincidence ? Not really. Poor electrical grounding, old cables, micro power cuts… all of that creates interference. Routers hate unstable power. They don’t always crash, they just become… flaky. Slow, unpredictable, annoying. If your place hasn’t been renovated in years, it might be worth looking beyond the tech side. Sometimes a proper electrical upgrade fixes more than any fancy mesh system. I even stumbled on [https://entreprise-renovation-paris.com](https://entreprise-renovation-paris.com) while digging into renovation topics, and yeah, it made me rethink how much the building itself matters.

Walls are the silent Wi-Fi killers

Let’s talk walls. Thick concrete, brick, old stone, metal beams hidden inside… Wi-Fi signals really struggle with that stuff. I once tested this in a house where the router was in the hallway. Bedroom door closed ? Speed divided by three. Move one room further ? Almost no signal. It’s not black magic, it’s physics. 5 GHz Wi-Fi is fast, sure, but it hates obstacles. And older houses are basically obstacle factories.

How to know if your walls are the problem

Quick test. Stand next to your router, run a speed test. Then walk to the room where the connection sucks. Big drop ? Like from 300 Mbps to 20? That’s not normal. That’s your walls laughing at your router. Another clue : Wi-Fi works fine late at night but poorly during the day. That can mean electrical noise from appliances, neighbors, or even old wiring heating up.

What you can actually do (without going crazy)

Let’s be practical. You don’t need to tear everything down tomorrow.

• Try moving the router higher. Chest height or above, not hidden behind the TV.
• Switch Wi-Fi channels. Sometimes it helps more than you’d think.
• Use wired connections for fixed devices. A cable is boring, but wow, it works.
• Consider Wi-Fi access points with Ethernet backhaul, not just repeaters.

And if your electricity is clearly unstable ? Random reboots, buzzing sounds, lights flickering slightly ? That’s a red flag. Network gear is sensitive. Way more than people think.

When tech fixes aren’t enough

This is the part people don’t like hearing. Sometimes, buying another router won’t fix it. If the electrical network is outdated or the walls are too dense, tech solutions hit a wall (literally). I’ve seen homes where a simple electrical renovation stabilized the network overnight. No speed boost miracle, just consistency. And consistency is gold.

Final thought, straight up

If your home network feels unstable, don’t just fight the symptoms. Look at the environment. Electricity, walls, layout. It’s not sexy, it’s not fun, but it’s often the missing piece. And once it’s fixed ? Suddenly, your “bad Wi-Fi” feels… normal. Fast. Reliable. And honestly, that’s a relief.

By the way, if you’re into exploring more home-tech ideas, I stumbled upon https://expert-maison-moderne.net while researching, and it actually gave me a couple of upgrade inspirations I didn’t expect.

Alright, ready to build the kind of setup that makes you think “wow, why didn’t I do this sooner ?” Let’s go.

1. An ergonomic keyboard

Honestly, once you switch to a good ergonomic keyboard, going back feels like torture. Your wrists relax, your typing feels smoother… and if you’re like me, you’ll start typing faster without even noticing. Whether you prefer split designs or soft mechanical switches, this is hands-down one of the best long-term upgrades.

2. A precise, comfortable mouse

A mouse that actually fits your hand changes everything. I used a tiny travel mouse for years without realizing how much strain it caused. The day I switched to an ergonomic model with customizable buttons ? Total game-changer. Your fingers will thank you.

3. A quality mouse pad (XL if possible)

One of those underrated accessories that you don’t appreciate until you try it. The large ones – almost like desk mats – make everything feel cleaner and quieter. Plus, you get that smooth gliding feel that’s oddly satisfying.

4. A monitor light bar

Maybe you’ve seen these on Instagram setups ? They’re not just aesthetic. A light bar reduces eye strain at night and removes glare from your screen. Mine turns on automatically at sunset, and frankly, it’s become one of my favorite desk features.

5. A laptop stand

Neck pain ? Gone. A laptop stand raises your screen to eye level, which feels surprisingly professional even if you’re working in your living room. Pair it with an external keyboard and mouse and suddenly your laptop feels like a mini desktop.

6. A dual-monitor arm

If you’re using one or two screens (or three, no judgment), monitor arms free up a crazy amount of desk space. But the real magic is being able to adjust height and angle with zero effort. Perfect for coding, gaming, or binge-watching while pretending to be productive.

7. A USB-C hub or docking station

Because let’s face it : modern laptops never have enough ports. A USB-C hub keeps everything connected – keyboard, external drive, SD cards, your whole digital life basically. I personally use one with an Ethernet port, and it’s saved me during Wi-Fi meltdowns more times than I’d like to admit.

8. A reliable external SSD

If you’re still storing everything on your computer only… riskyyy. An external SSD is fast, silent, and tiny enough to slip into a pocket. Great for backups, editing photos, or moving massive files in seconds. Some go up to 1,000 MB/s – it’s wild.

9. A good microphone

Whether you’re on Zoom all day or recording content, a real microphone makes your voice sound like… well, you. Not like you’re trapped inside a boxy laptop speaker. Even entry-level USB mics sound studio-clean compared to built-ins.

10. A pair of noise-canceling headphones

Essential if you share your home with kids, neighbors, pets, or life in general. Noise-canceling headphones create this bubble where you can finally focus. Sometimes I put them on without music, just for peace. It’s bliss.

11. A cable management kit

Let’s be real : nobody likes “spaghetti cables”. A few velcro straps, a cable sleeve, maybe a small under-desk tray – and suddenly your setup looks twice as expensive. It’s one of those upgrades that feels almost therapeutic.

12. A backup power strip with surge protection

You don’t think about this… until your power flickers and everything shuts down mid-work. A surge-protected power strip saves your gear (and your nerves). I added one after a tiny power outage last winter, and now I can’t imagine going without it.

Final thoughts

Improving your home computer setup isn’t just about buying stuff – it’s about creating a space where you enjoy spending time. A place where things flow. Where your gear works *with* you, not against you.

So tell me : which of these accessories are you already using ? And which one feels like the next upgrade you’re itching to try ?

Second thing I always say when someone starts a renovation : don’t think only “walls and floors”, think “infrastructure”. When you open walls, it’s the perfect moment to prepare the digital backbone of the house. Even pros insist on it, and if you’re working with renovation specialists, they’ll tell you the same. I’ve seen good advice on sites like https://expertrenovationlyon.com, where they keep repeating one simple truth : anticipation saves money, nerves, and ugly fixes later.

Wired network : yes, Ethernet still matters (a lot)

Let’s get this out of the way. Wi-Fi is great. I love it. But Wi-Fi alone in a renovated house ? Big mistake, in my opinion.

If you can, run Ethernet cables everywhere. Living room, office, bedrooms, even the garage. CAT6 or CAT6a, nothing exotic. It costs almost nothing during renovation, and later it feels like magic. No lag, no drops, no “why is the signal bad in this corner ?”. I once renovated a 90 m² apartment and skipped Ethernet in the bedroom. Regret. Every. Single. Day.

Think about it : TVs, gaming consoles, PCs, access points… they all work better wired. Wi-Fi should be the bonus, not the foundation. Would you build a house without solid foundations ? Same logic.

A proper electrical panel… with room to grow

This part isn’t sexy, but it’s crucial. Your electrical panel needs space. Real space. Smart relays, home automation modules, network switches, maybe a small server or a NAS later. If the panel is already full on day one, you’re stuck.

I always recommend leaving at least 30% free space. And add power outlets near the panel. Sounds obvious, yet people forget. Then they plug power strips everywhere, and it becomes messy fast. Clean now, peaceful later.

Centralized network cabinet : your future self will thank you

If you can, plan a small network cabinet or closet. Nothing crazy. A ventilated space where all Ethernet cables arrive. Router, switch, maybe a NAS humming quietly.

I’ve installed one under a staircase once. Not glamorous, but super efficient. Everything centralized, labeled, easy to maintain. And when something breaks (because yes, it will), you know exactly where to look. No crawling behind furniture at 11 pm.

Wi-Fi access points : plan their locations early

This one surprised me the first time I did it right. Ceiling-mounted Wi-Fi access points are insanely effective. But they need… cables. And holes. And planning.

During renovation, decide where your access points will go. One per floor is a good start, more for large spaces. Pull Ethernet to those spots now. Later, you just clip the access point. Clean. Invisible. Powerful.

Do you want strong Wi-Fi in the bathroom ? On the terrace ? In the workshop ? If the answer is yes, now is the moment.

Smart home hubs and protocols : don’t lock yourself in

Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter… it can get confusing fast. My personal advice ? Stay flexible. Choose equipment that plays well with others. Avoid obscure brands that lock you into one ecosystem.

Plan a central hub location. Somewhere stable, powered, and connected to Ethernet. Not hidden behind a TV with bad signal. Trust me, hubs hate bad placement. And troubleshooting at 2 am is not fun.

Security, cameras, and peace of mind

Even if you don’t install cameras now, prepare for them. Ethernet + power near entrances, garage, garden. Same for smart doorbells.

I’ve seen people drill fresh walls to add a camera six months after renovation. Painful. Emotionally painful. Just plan the cables, cap them, forget about them. They’ll be there when you need them.

Final thought : renovation is your only real chance

Once the walls are closed, everything becomes harder, dirtier, and more expensive. That’s just how it is. So take a breath, think ahead, and invest a bit more time on the digital side.

Smart home isn’t about flashy gadgets. It’s about solid groundwork. And when everything works smoothly, silently, without thinking… that’s when you know you did it right.

So, before the next coat of paint : are your cables ready ?

1. Upgrade Your Router – It’s a Game Changer

First things first, your router might be the weak link. A lot of us stick with the same one for years, right ? But here’s the thing : Wi-Fi technology evolves fast, and the router you bought five years ago may not be up to speed with today’s demands. If you haven’t yet switched to a Wi-Fi 6 router, seriously consider it. This tech is faster, more reliable, and can handle more devices without slowing down. Trust me, upgrading your router is like giving your Wi-Fi a shot of espresso.

Also, if your house is anything like mine (lots of walls and dead zones), you might want to opt for a router with a mesh network. This is a lifesaver, especially if your home is spread over several floors or if you have multiple rooms that seem to suck the signal dry.

2. Placement Matters : Find the Sweet Spot

Let’s be real-where you place your router plays a huge role in the quality of your connection. It’s not enough to just toss it in a corner and forget about it. Think about it like this : a router in the basement won’t do you much good if you’re working in the kitchen. The Wi-Fi signal needs to travel through walls, floors, and furniture, so it’s best to place your router in a central location, away from obstructions.

And, no joke, keep it off the floor ! I know, it sounds basic, but having your router up high (like on a shelf or table) really helps spread the signal more evenly across the house. Sometimes, little things like this make all the difference.

3. Extenders or Mesh Systems : For Those Hard-to-Reach Areas

Let’s talk about those spots in your home where the Wi-Fi signal just refuses to reach. Maybe it’s that one room in the back, or your garage, or the garden. If your router alone isn’t cutting it, a Wi-Fi extender can help bridge that gap. They’re pretty affordable, and they do a decent job of amplifying the signal to areas that are too far for your main router to handle.

However, if you want something a bit more sophisticated and seamless, a mesh Wi-Fi system is worth considering. Mesh networks come with multiple units (or “nodes”) that communicate with each other, ensuring that the signal is strong no matter where you are in your home. In my experience, it’s a real upgrade, especially if you’re tired of dealing with those annoying “Wi-Fi is unavailable” pop-ups.

4. Don’t Forget About the Devices

It’s not always just about the router ! Sometimes, the problem lies with the devices themselves. For instance, older smartphones or laptops might not support the latest Wi-Fi standards, which could be why you’re not seeing the speeds you expect. If you’re still using a device from 2017, it could be time for an upgrade. I found that switching to a newer laptop made a surprising difference in speed.

Also, try to connect your important devices (like your work computer or gaming console) directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. It’s like giving them a VIP pass to the fastest connection possible. If you’re wired, you’re golden.

5. Update Your Firmware – Seriously, Don’t Skip This

Now, this is something a lot of people forget : router firmware updates. Your router is essentially a mini-computer, and like all tech, it needs updates to stay at its best. Manufacturers frequently release firmware updates that can improve your Wi-Fi performance, fix bugs, or add new features. I know it sounds boring, but spending five minutes checking for updates might save you a ton of headaches later on.

6. Switch to a Less Crowded Channel

Wi-Fi signals don’t just float through the air like magic, they’re on specific channels. In many cases, your neighbors are likely using the same Wi-Fi channels, especially if you live in a crowded apartment building. This leads to congestion and slower speeds. Luckily, you can change your router’s channel to avoid this mess.

Most modern routers can automatically pick the best channel for you, but if you’re tech-savvy (or feeling adventurous), you can manually choose a less crowded channel. You’d be surprised at how much this simple step can boost your connection !

7. Consider Investing in Wi-Fi 6E

Alright, if you’re really serious about future-proofing your home network, consider going all-in on Wi-Fi 6E. This is the latest upgrade to Wi-Fi 6, and it opens up a whole new frequency band (6 GHz) that’s less crowded than the usual 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands. In areas where congestion is a real issue, Wi-Fi 6E can provide faster, more reliable speeds.

But here’s the kicker-if you’re going for Wi-Fi 6E, you’ll need devices that support it. This is one of those “new tech, new devices” situations, so make sure your gadgets are ready for the upgrade if you go down that road.

8. The Power of the Right Internet Plan

And, finally, let’s not forget about your internet plan. It’s easy to assume that the problem is always Wi-Fi-related, but sometimes, it’s simply that your internet connection itself isn’t fast enough for what you’re trying to do. If you’ve got a plan that offers low speeds, upgrading to a higher-tier plan could make a huge difference. I’ve personally found that going from a 100 Mbps plan to a 500 Mbps plan completely transformed my online experience.

Wrapping It Up : A Better Wi-Fi Experience in 2025

At the end of the day, boosting your Wi-Fi at home in 2025 isn’t rocket science. It’s all about choosing the right equipment, positioning it well, and keeping everything updated. With a few tweaks here and there-like upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 router, placing your router strategically, and investing in a mesh system-you’ll enjoy smoother streaming, faster downloads, and less frustration. So, what’s your current Wi-Fi situation ? Ready to give it a serious upgrade ?