Wireless routers are chock full of settings most of us never bother to delve into as long as the Web pages keep flowing. However, you might not realize you could be giving up performance by letting the router choose a channel for you. Changing your router’s channel can reduce interference from other nearby networks and devices, allowing you to get the most out of your connection. Routers on the 5 GHz band are far less susceptible to interference, as the frequencies used range from 5.1 to 5.8 GHz, offering anywhere from eight to 23 channels with no overlap whatsoever. However, it’s still worth setting your 5 GHz router channel manually since the automatic settings of most routers default to the same channels. If you prefer a more scientific approach, download the free inSSIDer utility (see Resources), which allows you to see not only the names and strengths of the wireless networks around you, but which channel they are using as well. Then simply pick the channel that is most clear of interference. Writer Bio
