Assess your current Wi-Fi network

Before proceeding with the actual optimization process, it is necessary to understand your current WiFi settings. First, evaluate whether the router is single-band, dual-band, or tri-band. Then, visit 192.168.1.1 to evaluate network speed, coverage, and reliability. Of course, there are also online tools and smartphone apps that can be used to evaluate your current WiFi network.

Additionally, move around your home or apartment to identify areas of poor WiFi coverage or dead spots. Understanding your current WiFi network allows you to understand its strengths and weaknesses so you can improve it.

Choose the right router

The heart of any wireless network setup is your wireless router, and the first step to optimization is choosing the right router. Choosing the right router can have a big impact on your smart home network. When choosing a WiFi router, you need to consider factors such as the size of your home, the number of connected devices, and your budget.

Nowadays, dual-band or tri-band routers are recommended as these routers can handle multiple devices and data-intensive tasks simultaneously more efficiently. If your house is larger and you need wide coverage, you can also consider purchasing a mesh WiFi network, which will solve all coverage-related issues.

Best Router Layout

The placement of the router is crucial for a smart home system as the router should be placed where it can transmit the signal evenly to all connected devices. The ideal place to place a WiFi router is in a central area of ​​your home, where it can transmit signals in all directions.

Avoid placing the router in an enclosed cabinet, near thick walls, or close to other electronic equipment, as these can block signal propagation and cause interference. Keep the router away from flood water and make sure there are no nearby objects blocking the router.

Cybersecurity for smart homes

Security is crucial for smart home systems with multiple devices connected to the same WiFi network. Make sure that the wireless network access page and WiFi network through the router at 192.168.0.1 are protected by a strong and unique password so that no one else can access except you.

Enable the latest WPA3 encryption protocol to protect your WiFi network from unprotected and unauthorized access. If possible, consider creating a separate network or SSID for your smart devices. By isolating devices on different SSIDs on the same network, you can prevent infected smart devices from entering the main network's gateway.

Manage bandwidth and device prioritization

Since the smart home system consists of multiple devices. From smart TVs and thermostats to game consoles and security, there are a variety of devices in a smart home system. To ensure a smooth experience for all connected devices, bandwidth must be managed efficiently. This can be done by ensuring that all connected devices receive the same bandwidth, or by using Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize certain devices over others.