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If your Wi-Fi is slow, drops out constantly, or doesn't reach parts of your house, you're dealing with a common Northern Colorado problem. Our older homes weren't built for streaming 4K video in every room while working from home. Here's how to fix it.

Common Wi-Fi Problems in NoCo Homes

• Dead zones in bedrooms or upstairs offices
• Connection drops when you move between rooms
• Slow speeds even though you pay for fast internet
• ISP router tucked in a utility room or far from where you work
• Too many devices competing for bandwidth
• Thick walls or metal construction blocking signal

Solutions: From Easiest to Most Involved

1. Router Placement (DIY, Free)

Move your router to a central location, ideally on the main floor and out in the open (not hidden in a closet or utility space). Wi-Fi spreads in all directions, so putting it in the corner of your house means half the signal goes into your yard.

When this helps: Single-story homes, router currently in a lower level or far corner.

2. Upgrade Your Router (DIY, $100-300)

ISP-provided routers are usually mediocre. A good modern router (Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E) can handle more devices and has better range. Brands I trust: ASUS, Ubiquiti, TP-Link.

When this helps: You're using the Xfinity/CenturyLink/T-Mobile router they gave you, and it's several years old.

3. Mesh Network System (DIY or Pro Install, $200-600)

Mesh systems (like Eero, Google Nest WiFi, or Ubiquiti) use multiple units around your house to create one seamless network. Your devices automatically connect to the strongest signal as you move around.

When this helps: Multi-story homes, large square footage, dead zones router placement can't fix.

Pro tip: Wired backhaul (ethernet between mesh points) works way better than wireless mesh if you can run cables.

4. Ethernet Wiring (Pro Install, $500-2000+)

Running ethernet cables through walls to key locations (home office, TV, mesh points) gives you rock-solid connections where Wi-Fi struggles. This is especially good for home offices where Zoom calls dropping mid-meeting costs you money.

When this helps: Home office with bad Wi-Fi, frequent video calls, gaming, large file transfers, multi-story homes.

When to DIY vs Call for Help

DIY if:

• You're comfortable with basic tech setup
• You're okay reading instructions and troubleshooting
• You have a simple single-story home
• You just need a better router or basic mesh system

Call me if:

• You've tried stuff and it didn't help
• You need ethernet wiring installed
• You want a professional site survey to find the best solution
• You have a complex setup (multiple buildings, business from home, etc.)
• You just want someone to handle it and get it right the first time

What I Can Do for You

• Site survey: I walk your property, test signal strength, identify problem areas, and recommend solutions
• Equipment selection: Tell you what to buy based on your actual needs (not sales commissions)
• Professional installation: Mount access points, run ethernet cables, configure mesh systems, secure your network
• ISP coordination: Deal with Xfinity/CenturyLink/T-Mobile if needed to get your modem in the right spot
• Ongoing support: Adjust settings as your needs change, troubleshoot problems, add coverage when you expand

Typical Costs in Northern Colorado

• Router upgrade: $100-300 equipment, $125-200 setup fee if you want me to configure it
• Basic mesh system: $200-400 equipment, $200-300 installation
• Pro mesh system: $400-800 equipment, $300-500 installation
• Ethernet wiring: $500-2000+ depending on how many drops and difficulty (e.g., multi-story, finished ceilings)

Before You Buy Anything

Text me your situation. I'll tell you if a simple fix might work or if you need a full upgrade. I'd rather save you money on equipment you don't need than sell you the most expensive option.

Also, if your actual internet service is slow (like you're paying for 100Mbps but getting 20Mbps even on ethernet), that's an ISP problem, not a router problem. I can help you test and troubleshoot that too, and deal with your ISP if needed.

Need Help with Your Home Network?

I do free site surveys for home network upgrades in Greeley, Windsor, and surrounding areas. I'll tell you what actually makes sense for your situation.