Signal strength plays a crucial role in the performance of your Mesh WiFi system. Each node within your network contains antennas that emit WiFi signals. Signal strength measures how effectively one node receives the signal from another within the system.
How is Signal Strength Measured?
Signal strength is quantified by the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), which is expressed in dBm (decibels per milliwatt). The value is usually negative, and the closer the number is to zero, the better the signal. A higher dBm value indicates a stronger signal, while a lower or negative value suggests weaker connectivity.
If your signal status is marked as Fair or Poor, try moving your child node closer to another node and check the signal again. If the node is incorrectly showing as a wired connection in the WiFi settings, restarting the network can help. After the network comes back online, give it some time to see if the status improves.
What Causes Weak Signals and How to Improve Them?
1. Improper Node Placement
Poor node placement or excessive distance between nodes can weaken your signal. Nodes should be placed in open areas where signals can travel freely. Avoid placing them inside cabinets or behind furniture. If a node is in the open but still has a weak signal, consider repositioning it closer to another node for better coverage.
2. Interference from Overcrowded WiFi Channels
WiFi signals operate across different frequency bands: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. These bands are divided into channels, and just like traffic on a freeway, these channels can become congested if too many devices are using them. Your neighbors' devices may also be competing for the same channels, which can cause interference.
3. Device Connected to a Farther Node with Weak Signal
Sometimes, a device like a smartphone or laptop might initially connect to the closest node but move farther away as you move around. WiFi devices rely on signal strength to determine whether to switch to a better node. If you experience a weak signal, turning your device's WiFi off and back on can force it to reconnect to a node with a stronger signal.
By optimizing node placement, managing network interference, and ensuring proper device connectivity, you can significantly enhance your Mesh WiFi system’s performance and avoid weak signal issues.