Though routers are stationary most of the time, it’s possible to move them around if you want a change in coverage or need to get a better signal.
I’ve spent most of my life tinkering with and working on technology. That includes various WiFi routers. My own experience with the devices has taught me what you can (and can’t) do with them, including putting them in a new place.
This guide tackles that idea head-on by explaining the ins and outs of router movement. That includes the best way to move yours, as well as where to put it once you’re done.
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Key Takeaways
- As long as you know what you’re doing, or if you hire a professional, it’s more than possible to move your router to a new room.
- Be aware of where you can hook up a router or modem in your space before deciding to move it.
- Try to put your router into an open space towards the center of your house that’s free of obstacles or excess objects.
The Possibilities of Moving a Router
Many people keep their router in one place for years. Sometimes that’s because they find the right spot for it, but often it’s because they don’t know if they can move it or not. The task seems daunting, especially for those not used to technology.
However, it’s more than possible to move your router. It’s quite easy as well. Whether you want to get a better signal, or if you simply want a change, moving your router is something almost anyone can do.
If you have a combination router/modem then you don’t need to worry about placement as much due to the way it connects, and if you have a separate modem and router combo moving them around is as easy as unplugging and plugging them back in.
How to Move Your Router
When moving a router, it’s important to note that it needs a wired connection to the internet. As such, you are limited to putting it in a place where it can be plugged in. Once that’s done, all you have to do is hook it up to the active line and a power outlet.
You can also install a router into a new room, as long as you recognize that doing so may require your provider to install internet there first. If you already have internet in that location, which is preferred, then you just hook it up.
From there, you connect the modem and router to the new internet line (or to the line that already exists in the new room), test the connection, and you’re good to go. You can also terminate any lines that are no longer in use.
Just know that having a connection in a room doesn’t mean there’s internet. Before moving everything around, you first want to see if the new line is active. Connect your devices to it and see if they go online.
If they don’t, install a new line through your ISP. You can always put in your own line, but that’s not recommended. In this case, professionals are the way to go.
You can also place a router on its own in a different room than the modem. Just be sure to run a cable between them. That set up is preferable to some people, but keeping them together is a bit better for networking purposes.
The Best Places for a Router
Ideally, you won’t have to move your router. You find the right placement, know where everything goes, and it stays there for a long time. However, in order to do that it has to be put into the correct location.
When placing your router there are several things you need to keep in mind. First, always avoid the kitchen. Not only will that keep the machine safe from spills or food, it also prevents it from being too close to large metal surfaces or microwaves (both of which can harm its performance.
It’s also important to keep your router near or towards the center of your house. Wireless routers tend to transmit in all directions. Putting in a corner keeps it out of the way, but it also limits where the signal can reach. The more in the open it is, the better it will do.
Avoid walls as well. That’s not always easy to do, especially in a large house, but the blockades do impact how well your router can broadcast its signal. Open doorways or unobstructed areas are both great spots.
Also keep your router higher up. It doesn’t have to be near the ceiling, but you want it to be off the floor. That takes out other possible obstructions and furthers the signal.
There’s no one spot that works, and you don’t have to lock into a single spot. Don’t be afraid to try a few different areas before settling on the one that gives you the best results.
FAQs
This section tackles a few large questions users have about moving routers around.
Can You Put a Router Near Your TV?
You can put your router just about anywhere. However, it’s recommended to keep it away from your TV as media components can hamper wireless performance.
Can Routers Go Through Walls?
Theoretically, WiFi signals can easily move through just about any physical obstacle. Unfortunately, that’s not true in practice. Some walls won’t affect your signal, but reinforced or especially thick ones can greatly lower a wireless signal.
Do My Modem and Router Need to Be in the Same Room?
While most users keep a router and modem near each other due to convenience, they don’t have to be near each other. In fact, splitting them up can increase your WiFi range in some cases.
Final Words
Routers tend to be stationary in most homes, but they don’t have to be. They can freely be moved both by you or a professional. As long as there’s internet and the space is conducive to a strong signal, you won’t have any issues finding your router a new home.
Have you ever had to move your router? Why did you move it, and where did you move it to? Let us know below!
