Research-based guidance, not a hands-on test. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through paid Amazon links. Read our method.

Compare the same device in two places

Run a speed test beside the router and again in the room that has trouble, using the same device and a similar time of day. A large difference can point to coverage, obstacles, or interference; a weak result in both places may involve the internet service, router, or device instead. A speed test is a clue, not a diagnosis by itself. Record the results before shopping.

Try placement before buying equipment

ASUS recommends placing a router in a central, open area and away from metal obstacles and sources of interference. Test one move at a time—out of a closed cabinet, higher off the floor, or closer to the area where you use Wi-Fi—then repeat the same tests. Home layout and building materials affect results, so there is no universal placement distance.

Add mesh only where the signal can reach

A mesh point still needs a usable connection to the main router. Google recommends placing an extender partway toward the weak area; verify the connection with the system’s own mesh test or placement guidance. If you have Ethernet cabling, wired backhaul can avoid a wireless hop, but support depends on the exact router and satellite models, hardware revisions, and sometimes firmware. Check both devices’ documentation before assuming they can use it.

Match the Wi-Fi generation to your devices

A newer router cannot make an older phone or laptop use a Wi-Fi feature it does not support. List the devices and internet plan that matter, then check the exact router’s bands, ports, supported features, and firmware update availability. The FTC recommends checking with the manufacturer or ISP for current router software and using WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. If the router offers only obsolete WEP or WPA after a software update, consider replacing it for security—not simply to chase a faster Wi-Fi number. ASUS notes that 6 GHz can be faster nearby but has weaker wall penetration than lower bands; the best band depends on distance, barriers, and client support. Pay for Wi-Fi 7 when a specific supported device or capacity need justifies it, not just for the number on the box.

Decide whether the upgrade solves your problem

If a placement change fixes the room, keep the current router. If one area remains weak, compare a compatible mesh kit, access point, or extender and include any wiring or extra-node cost. If speeds are weak even beside the router, check the internet plan, modem, device, and service status before buying a Wi-Fi upgrade. These steps are a research checklist, not a promise of a particular speed.

Before you buy

WorthByte checklist

  • ✓Compare the same device near the router and in the weak room
  • ✓Test one open, central router location and repeat
  • ✓Check mesh-node connection quality and placement instructions
  • ✓Confirm wired-backhaul support for the exact main and satellite models
  • ✓Match Wi-Fi bands and features to your devices, layout, and service plan
  • ✓Check firmware updates with the manufacturer or ISP and verify WPA2 or WPA3 availability
  • ✓Compare ports, mesh-node count, and total system cost

Related product families

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Sources and further reading

Editorial note

This is research-based buying guidance, not a hands-on product test. Verify the exact model, price, seller and return terms with the retailer. WorthByte may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through the paid links on this page.