Your Wi-Fi Router Is in the Wrong Spot. Here’s Where to Move It for Faster Internet

This story is part of Home Tips, CNET’s collection of practical advice for getting the most out of your home, inside and out.

A slow home internet connection can make even the simplest Google search super frustrating. If you find that your Wi-Fi is always unstable, no matter what internet service provider you have or how many devices are connected, what do you do? Sometimes having your router professionally installed might not even solve the immense problem of a slow, weak internet connection. That’s a massive headache if you work from home, if you’re trying to install smart home gadgets, or if you just want to unwind with some Netflix at the end of the day.

The good news is there’s an easy way to optimize your Wi-Fi network and address these issues — and it’ll only take you a few minutes. 

Shopping for a faster internet speed?

We’ll send you the fastest internet options, so you don’t have to find them.

There are a lot of factors that determine internet speeds and while there are a few tricks or guidelines you can follow to improve the overall wireless speeds and coverage in your home, one of the most crucial factors is the location of your router. And the best place is not always where the technician set it up. So keep reading to learn about the best place in your home for your router and other tricks for faster Wi-Fi. You can also check out our picks for the best Wi-Fi routers, the best mesh routers and the best Wi-Fi extenders. (And if you have a mesh router, make sure you check out our guide for where and how to set that up the right way, too.)

Choose the right router for your space

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First things first: It all starts with choosing the right router or other equipment. Not all routers are the same and the size and layout of your home will determine what type of wireless network you need.

For most apartments and smaller homes (under 1,500 square feet), a single wireless access point should suffice. That said, if your router is several years old, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer model with support for 802.11ax, or Wi-Fi 6. That’s the latest generation of Wi-Fi technology, and it’ll give you the fastest wireless speeds possible and the best overall coverage.

For bigger, multilevel homes, it’s worth considering making the upgrade to a mesh network to offer consistent coverage throughout the entire house. Once the main access point is installed, if you find a far corner of your home doesn’t have solid wireless coverage, just add another node to that area. Problem solved.

To learn more, check out our list of the best mesh routers of the year (our top pick is the TP-Link Deco W7200) and if you’re not sure where to begin in choosing your next router, consult our router buying guide.

Regardless of

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Here’s How to Find All Your Wi-Fi Passwords on Your Mac and Windows

You should never use the same password more than once, but using so many different passwords can make it difficult to remember all of them. If you don’t write them down somewhere, you may never remember certain passwords again, including the one for your Wi-Fi network.

Usually your Wi-Fi password should be printed on the back of your router, but if it’s not, don’t sweat it. There’s another way to find the passwords to all of the Wi-Fi networks you’ve ever connected to. They’re all on your computer somewhere.

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As long as your Windows or Mac computer has connected to that network before, the Wi-Fi password is permanently stored in your settings. It may require a bit of digging on your part, but all of the passwords are there, saved and ready to be shared with anyone who wants to connect to Wi-Fi.

Here’s how to find the passwords to all of the Wi-Fi networks you’ve ever connected to on MacOS and Windows. For more, discover 17 essential settings for customizing your MacBook or how to get the most out of Windows 11.

How to find Wi-Fi passwords in MacOS

Every password you’ve entered and saved on a Mac is stored in Keychain Access, the password management system for MacOS. And that includes Wi-Fi network passwords. 

To start, use the search feature to open the Keychain Access app and do the following:

1. Click on System under System Keychains in the sidebar.

2. Next, click on Passwords at the top of the window.

3. Find the Wi-Fi network you want the password for and double-click on it.

4. Finally, check the box next to Show password and enter your password when prompted.

Keychain Access app pop-up on MacBook

Find all your stored Wi-Fi passwords in the Keychain Access app on MacOS.


Screenshot by Nelson Aguilar/CNET

The password field will then show the password you used to log in to that Wi-Fi network. You can double-click in the password field to select the password and copy it to your clipboard, if needed.

How to find Wi-Fi passwords on Windows

Finding the password to the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to is simple on Windows, but getting your hands on all stored Wi-Fi passwords takes a bit of work, so we’ll discuss both methods below.

To find the password to the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to on Windows:

1. Click the Start button and then go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center (Windows 11) or Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network and Sharing Center (Windows 10).

2. Next to Connections, click your Wi-Fi network name highlighted in blue.

3. In the Wi-Fi Status page that opens, click Wireless Properties and then on the Security tab.

4. Finally, check the box next to Show characters to display your Wi-Fi network password above it.

Network sharing center on a Windows laptop

You can easily find the password for the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to on

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Your Router Is in the Wrong Spot. Here’s Where To Move It for Faster Wi-Fi

This story is part of Home Tips, CNET’s collection of practical advice for getting the most out of your home, inside and out.

A reliable internet connection at home is pivotal — but Wi-Fi can be frustratingly finicky. Despite paying monthly fees to an internet service provider, and even if you’ve had a router professionally installed, you may still find yourself spending too much time watching your phone, laptop or streaming device grind away as it tries to stay connected. 

That’s a massive headache if you work from home, if you’re trying to install smart home gadgets, or if you just want to unwind with some Netflix at the end of the day.

Shopping for a faster internet speed?

We’ll send you the fastest internet options, so you don’t have to find them.

The good news is there’s an easy way to optimize your Wi-Fi network and address these issues, and it’ll only take you a few minutes. 

There are a lot of factors that determine internet speeds and while there are a few tricks or guidelines you can follow to improve the overall wireless speeds and coverage in your home, one of the most crucial factors is the location of your router. And note, the best place is not always where the technician set it up. So keep reading to learn about the best place in your home for your router and other tricks for faster Wi-Fi. You can also check out our picks for the best Wi-Fi routers, the best mesh routers and the best Wi-Fi extenders.

Find the right router for your space

CNET Home Tips logo

First things first: It all starts with choosing the right router or other equipment. Not all routers are the same and the size and layout of your home will determine what type of wireless network you need.

For most apartments and smaller homes (under 1,500 square feet), a single wireless access point should suffice. That said, if your router is several years old, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer model with support for 802.11ax, or Wi-Fi 6. That’s the latest generation of Wi-Fi technology, and it’ll give you the fastest wireless speeds possible and the best overall coverage.

For bigger, multilevel homes, it’s worth considering making the upgrade to a mesh network to offer consistent coverage throughout the entire house. Once the main access point is installed, if you find a far corner of your home doesn’t have solid wireless coverage, just add another node to that area. Problem solved.

To learn more, check out our list of the best mesh routers of the year and if you’re not sure where to begin in choosing your next router, consult our router buying guide.

Regardless of whether you have a single access point or a mesh network, where you place the primary access point still matters.

TP Link router on a blue background

Check out all of the different routers available to you: Wi-Fi routers, mesh networks and more. 


Chris Monroe/CNET

Where

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All Those Wi-Fi Passwords You Used Can be Recovered. Here’s How

When you originally set up your home Wi-Fi network, you likely didn’t give your password much thought after connecting your phone and laptop to the internet. That is, until a friend or family member arrives and wants access to your Wi-Fi.

And maybe you don’t remember the password, and didn’t write it down. Is it that super long number on the back of your router? Or did you change it to something more personal?

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Lucky for you, there’s a way to find all your Wi-Fi passwords in a single place — your computer.

Read more: Best Password Managers for 2022

As long as your Windows or Mac computer has connected to the network before, that Wi-Fi password is permanently stored in your settings. It may require a bit of digging on your part, but all of the passwords are there, saved, and ready to be shared with anyone who wants to connect to Wi-Fi.

Here’s how to find the passwords to all of the Wi-Fi networks you’ve ever connected to on MacOS and Windows. For more, discover 17 essential settings for customizing your MacBook or how to get the most out of Windows 11.

How to find Wi-Fi passwords in MacOS

Every password you’ve entered and saved on a Mac is stored in Keychain Access, the password management system for MacOS. And that includes Wi-Fi network passwords. 

To start, use the search feature to open the Keychain Access app and do the following:

1. Click on System under System Keychains in the sidebar.

2. Next, click on Passwords at the top of the window.

3. Find the Wi-Fi network you want the password for and double-click on it.

4. Finally, check the box next to Show password and enter your password when prompted.

Keychain Access app pop-up on MacBook

Find all your stored Wi-Fi passwords in the Keychain Access app on MacOS.


Screenshot by Nelson Aguilar/CNET

The password field will then show the password you used to log in to that Wi-Fi network. You can double-click in the password field to select the password and copy it to your clipboard, if needed.

How to find Wi-Fi passwords on Windows

Finding the password to the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to is simple on Windows, but getting your hands on all stored Wi-Fi passwords takes a bit of work, so we’ll discuss both methods below.

To find the password to the Wi-Fi network you’re currently connected to on Windows:

1. Click the Start button and then go to Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center (Windows 11) or Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network and Sharing Center (Windows 10).

2. Next to Connections, click your Wi-Fi network name highlighted in blue.

3. In the Wi-Fi Status page that opens, click Wireless Properties and then on the Security tab.

4. Finally, check the box next to Show characters to display your Wi-Fi network password above it.

Network sharing center on a Windows laptop

You can easily find

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Programming languages: Here’s how Raspberry Pi is generating a new generation of Python builders

Raspberry Pi’s Python course teaches young coders how to use variables, loops, and features to build interactive projects.


Image: SolStock/GETTY

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has released a new introductory route for Python programming aimed at younger people today.

The new Introduction to Python project route has been designed to train children the fundamentals of Python programming and support them get assimilated with core programming principles via palms-on initiatives developed by the Raspberry Pi Basis.

Aimed at newbies and extra knowledgeable young programmers, the system will take learners by a amount of guided tasks and additional impartial assignments, right before being presented the possibility to create a little something one of a kind making use of the know-how they’ve obtained.

SEE: Best Raspberry Pi alternative 2022: Best SBCs

Raspberry Pi already delivers discovering paths in Scratch programming, in which younger coders are guided by means of basic programming and style expertise to build apps, video games, and laptop or computer-produced art, employing the block-primarily based language.

The Introduction to Python path is anything of a move up in conditions of complexity: currently being a textual content-based mostly language, the challenge path is created to get young coders familiar with the fundamental concepts of ‘true’ programming languages utilised in the serious environment, these kinds of as syntax, utilizing variables, and defining features.

Python is an excellent language for youthful and newbie coders due to the fact its syntax is very similar to the English language, according to Raspberry Pi learning supervisor, Rebecca Franks.

Python is also a programming language that’s commonly utilised by skilled builders in burgeoning fields like details science, building it a valuable talent for young coders fascinated in a job in tech.

“The ‘Introduction to Python’ task route is developed in accordance to our Electronic Making Framework, encouraging learners to grow to be unbiased coders and digital makers by gently getting rid of scaffolding as they progress alongside the tasks in a route,” Franks explained in a blog site submit.

“The construction of our Electronic Making Framework implies that learners knowledge the structured progress procedure of a coding task and find out how to change their suggestions into truth. The Framework also supports with acquiring errors in their code (debugging), displaying them that errors are a portion of laptop or computer programming and just temporary setbacks that you can triumph over.”

SEE: Programming languages: How Python is developing a developer community of thousands and thousands

Raspberry Pi’s Python job path is split into six elements, commencing with 3 ‘Explore’ assignments in which learners are released to new coding techniques through guided jobs. In contrast to some other introductory programs that aim on creating textual content-centered outputs, Raspberry Pi’s venture route focuses on producing electronic visuals applying the Python p5 library.

After the ‘Explore’ jobs are two ‘Design’ tasks, in which young Python coders are encouraged to practise their coding skills with far more personalized creations. Finally, learners entire a single ‘Invent’ challenge, the place they set anything that they

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Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 announced: Here’s every thing to know

Samsung has launched a new tablet less than its Galaxy Tab A-series. This is the new Galaxy Tab A8 2021 and the enterprise claims it gives a larger display screen with far better effectiveness, more storage and improved multitasking characteristics that will  be helpful for college students and pros.

Here’s anything you require to know about the Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 2021.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 2021: Specs

The Galaxy Tab A8 2021 capabilities a 10.5-inch display with a 1920×1200 FHD TFT panel. The monitor sports a 16:10 facet ratio and has additional vertical monitor authentic estate as opposed to the more mature Samsung Galaxy Tab A7.

Samsung has not named the chipset that is used in the new tablet but, claims that the new Tab A8 features 10 for every cent far better CPU effectiveness and 10 for each cent better GPU overall performance as properly. Having said that, leaks have instructed that the chip could be a Unisoc Tiger T618.

This chip attributes a 12nm approach with two Cortex A75 cores and 6 A55 cores. There is also a Mali G52 MP2 GPU. Samsung’s prior Tab A7 showcased a Qualcomm Snapdragon 662 chipset.

The new Galaxy Tab A8 2021 also features 3GB RAM and 32GB storage on the foundation variant and a 4GB RAM/ 64GB storage variant for those who want much more performance. However, end users also get a new storage configuration this year that brings 4GB RAM and 128GB storage on the top-close product.

The tablet also comes with a 5MP fixed-focus entrance digital camera for selfies and video phone calls, and an 8MP rear digicam that you can use for shots and movies. There is a 7,040mAh battery with 15W quick charging support. Connectivity functions contain a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C 2. port together with Bluetooth 5 and WiFi 5 (ac).

Coming to capabilities, the tablet functions 4 Dolby Atmos speakers and Samsung’s Tv set Moreover support baked in that provides in excess of 200 cost-free reside channels relying on the location. The tablet also supports split-display screen multitasking, floating windows and Drag & Break up from One UI 3.1.1, dependent on Android 11.

Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 202: Pricing and availability

Samsung has not disclosed the cost of the tablet nevertheless but it is expected to go on sale in Europe in late December. Other regions like the US are expected to get the tablet in January.

The Tab A8 is set to launch in three colours such as Gray, Silver and a new Pink Gold color. There is no affirmation of the pill launching in India nevertheless, but extra facts on the similar really should be formally out there before long.

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