Top Causes of Network Interference and How To Prevent Them

Network interference can wreak havoc on the day-to-day operations of small businesses. Sluggish speeds, dropped connections, and inconsistent performance disrupts productivity and frustrate employees and customers. Luckily, understanding the common causes of interference and how to prevent them can save you from these headaches. Below are the top culprits behind network interference and practical ways to tackle them.  

Wireless Signal Congestion  

Wireless networks are everywhere, which is both a blessing and a challenge. Wireless signal congestion can occur when multiple devices and networks operate nearby, leading to slower speeds and unreliable connections. For small businesses operating in shared office buildings or urban areas, this is especially common.  

Consider switching your router to a less crowded frequency band or channel to combat this issue. Modern routers typically operate on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, and using the less congested 5GHz band can often improve performance. Additionally, upgrading to a router with Wi-Fi 6 support can help handle higher device traffic more efficiently.  

Outdated Hardware  

Using outdated network hardware is one of the most overlooked causes of network interference. Old routers, switches, and network cables may not be able to handle modern internet speeds or technological advancements, resulting in performance bottlenecks.  

Upgrading your equipment is a must if you want a reliable network. For example, investing in Cat8 Ethernet cables can reduce crosstalk and boost your wired network’s speed while, a type of signal interference that can disrupt performance. Similarly, upgrading to a dual-band or tri-band router can make a noticeable difference in managing your network traffic.  

Physical Obstructions  

Walls, furniture, and even metal filing cabinets can weaken or block wireless signals, especially if you place your router in an inconvenient spot. This issue is common in offices or retail spaces with a lot of partitions or crowded layouts.  

Reposition your router to a central, elevated location with minimal obstructions. Avoid placing it near thick walls or heavy metal objects that can dampen signals. If you have a larger workspace, consider investing in a mesh Wi-Fi system to extend reliable coverage to every corner of your business.  

Electrical Interference  

Electrical devices like microwaves, cordless phones, and even fluorescent lights generate electromagnetic waves that can interfere with your network. The result is often laggy and inconsistent internet performance, leaving you scratching your head.  

Keep your router and other networking equipment away from such devices to limit electrical interference. Additionally, high-quality shielded Ethernet cables like Cat8 can significantly reduce electrical noise affecting your wired connections.  

Software Conflicts  

Sometimes, the culprit isn’t hardware but software. Outdated firmware, misconfigured settings, or competing software applications can cause disruptions in your network. This problem is particularly common when you ignore network-related updates.  

Start by regularly updating the firmware on your router and other network devices. Many routers come with automatic update options that remove this task’s hassle. Take the time to review your network settings or even perform a full reset to clear up any outdated or unnecessary configurations.  

Network interference can be frustrating for small business owners, but it’s entirely fixable with the right approach. You can create a more reliable network that supports your business goals by addressing common network interference issues. Strong networks build strong businesses, so take the steps today to keep yours running smoothly!