Wi-Fi is all surrounding and unseen internet giver. Wi-Fi can be a lifesaver when it works. But it can be very inconvenient when you lose signal. So, what is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is basically a radio wave and when the radio waves get disrupted or hindered, wireless “dead zones” are created.
The Causes of Wi-Fi dead zones
Dead zones are caused by interferences to your Wi-Fi radio. The potential causes of this kind of interference include:
- The distance in the area between your wireless router and your laptop or devices can definitely be a problem
- The places you reside especially such as very old buildings may not have been built with Wi-Fi in mind.
- Other interferences such as big filing cabinets, large metal objects like shelves and desks and metal walls can interfere with the Wi-Fi signal.
- Living closely to other wireless networks can also affect Wi-Fi reception.
Find the problem areas
To begin this process, you will first want to analyse your Wi-Fi network. This can be done with virtually any Android, iOS, Windows, or OS X device. Simply download an app from your device’s respective application store that analyses Wi-Fi connections.
After you get your Wi-Fi analysing app downloaded, walk around your house and see how the signal fluctuates as you move between different rooms.
Reposition Your Router and Change Channels
Placing your router in a central location, or nearest to the room you most often use your devices is generally the best place to put it. This may require a bit of trial and error to determine the absolute best location, but it will be worth it to remove weak connections.
Another solution worth trying is to adjust the channel your router is using. Your analyser software will indicate which channel to use.
Wi-Fi Range Extender
If none of the above options solves the problem, then it may be time to invest in better Wi-Fi equipment.
One option is to purchase a Wi-Fi repeater, bridge, or extender. These gadgets grab the signal your router is sending off and repeat it throughout your home. Strategically placing these devices throughout your house can produce fantastic results.
To wrap up
No one likes Wi-Fi dead spots. However, there are many ways to get rid of them. Between repositioning your router, tweaking your network settings, and upgrading your equipment, you have many options to eliminate bad connections.
ABACON IT works directly with our customers to solve everyday issues like this. Contact us if you need our help.
For more information contact the author, Ryan Danvers of ABACON IT on 072 601 2858.
Windows 11 Upgrade - Will it work on your lapop?
So, you’re wondering about Windows 11, the latest version of Microsoft’s operating system. It looks snazzy and has some neat features. But can your current laptop actually run it? Don’t worry, you don’t need a degree in IT to figure this out! We at abacon IT in Cape Town are here to help you understand the basics.
Upgrading your laptop to Windows 11 can give it a new lease on life. However, Windows 11 has certain system requirements. These are the minimum specifications your laptop needs to have to run the software smoothly. Think of it like needing the right ingredients for a recipe – without them, it just won’t work properly.
One of the most important parts is your laptop’s processor, often called the CPU (Central Processing Unit). This is the “brain” of your computer. Windows 11 needs a fairly recent and capable CPU to function well.
Which Processors Work with Windows 11?
Here’s a simplified look at the processors that are generally compatible:
Intel Processors:
- Generally, Windows 11 requires an 8th-generation Intel Core processor or newer. You might see names like “Intel Core i5-8xxx” or “Intel Core i7-11xxx.” The first number after the “i” (or “i3”) usually indicates the generation. So, an “i5-8250u” is an 8th-generation processor.
- Intel also has its Pentium and Celeron processors. For Windows 11, only certain newer models are compatible.
AMD Processors:
- For AMD, Windows 11 requires Ryzen 2000 Series and newer. You’ll see names like “AMD Ryzen 5 2xxx” or “AMD Ryzen 7 5xxx”. Again, the first number after “Ryzen” indicates the series.
- AMD also has Athlon processors. Similar to Intel’s Pentium and Celeron, only specific newer Athlon models will work with Windows 11.
Important Note: This is a general guideline. There can be exceptions, so it’s always best to double-check your specific processor.
How to Find Out Which Processor Your Laptop Has
Don’t fret, Windows makes it pretty easy to see what CPU is inside your laptop:
- Right-click the Start Button: This is the Windows logo (usually in the bottom-left corner of your screen).
- Select “System”: A new window will pop up with information about your computer.
- Look for “Processor”: You’ll find this listed under the “Device specifications” section. It will tell you the name of your processor, including the manufacturer (Intel or AMD) and the model number, which usually indicates the generation or series.
Once you have this information, you can compare it to the general lists above.
Other Important Bits for Windows 11
Besides the processor, there are a few other things Windows 11 needs:
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Consider this your laptop’s short-term memory. Windows 11 requires at least 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM. More is always better for smoother performance. Instead, consider 16 gigabytes (GB).
- Storage: To install Windows 11, you’ll need at least 64 GB of free space on your hard drive or SSD (Solid-State Drive). An SSD generally makes your computer much faster.
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): This is a security feature. Most modern laptops have this, but it’s worth checking. You can usually find information on how to check for TPM 2.0 in your laptop’s BIOS settings (you might need to consult your laptop manufacturer’s website for instructions on accessing this).
- Graphics Card: Your graphics card needs to be compatible with DirectX 12 or later with a WDDM 2.0 driver. Most reasonably recent graphics cards will meet this requirement.
- Display: You’ll need a screen with a resolution of at least 720p (HD).
Still Not Sure? We Can Help!
Figuring out all these technical details can be daunting. If you’re still unsure whether your laptop is ready for Windows 11, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at abacon IT in Cape Town.
Our friendly team can quickly assess your system and give you straightforward advice. We’re here to help your SME thrive with reliable IT solutions! Contact us at 072-601-2858 or email info@abacon.co.za, and we will call you back.
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