What is Wi-Fi Airtime?
Wi-Fi airtime is the amount of time your wireless devices spend transmitting data over your network's radio frequency. When your devices have weak WiFi signals, both the device and your router work harder to ensure data transmission succeeds. This extra effort consumes more airtime, potentially slowing down your entire network.
💡 Imagine driving up a steep hill in an old car. You might need to shift to a lower gear, press harder on the accelerator, or remove extra weight to reach the top. Your WiFi devices do something similar - they use more airtime to maintain stable connections when conditions aren't ideal.
Why Does Airtime Matter?
Why Does Airtime Matter?
Your WiFi network has limited capacity, just like a highway has limited lanes. When one device monopolizes airtime, it creates a bottleneck that affects all other connected devices.
Common Airtime Issues:
Weak Signal Devices 📶
A PlayStation located far from your router, separated by thick walls, will consume excessive airtime trying to maintain its connection.
Neighboring Networks 🏠
Other WiFi networks using the same channel can interfere with your airtime, even if they're not connected to your network.
Outdated Devices ⏰
Older devices using legacy WiFi standards (like 802.11g) are less efficient and consume disproportionate amounts of airtime.
Get the Best Out of Your Wi-Fi Airtime
Get the Best Out of Your Wi-Fi Airtime
🔄 Restart Your Router
The classic solution that actually works!
Your router scans for the best available WiFi channel during startup. A simple restart can automatically resolve many airtime conflicts with neighbouring networks.
🔌 Use Ethernet When Possible
Wire high-demand devices for optimal performance.
Connect stationary, bandwidth-heavy devices directly to your router: Gaming consoles, Desktop computers, Streaming devices, Smart TVs. This frees up valuable WiFi airtime for mobile devices that truly need wireless connectivity. We recommend a Cat6-rated cable from a reputable seller. You can also use a Cat5e for shorter distances.
📍 Router Placement
Location matters more than you think.
Position your router centrally in your home, elevated off the floor, and away from walls or metal objects that can cause interference. Common household items like microwaves, & baby monitors can disrupt WiFi signals and force devices to consume more airtime maintaining their connections.
🕸️ Consider Mesh WiFi Systems
Distribute the load across multiple access points.
Our BetterWiFi mesh system addresses airtime issues by creating multiple connection points throughout your home. Instead of all devices competing for airtime from a single router, they can connect to the strongest available signal from various access points.
Learn more about BetterWiFi
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
Before contacting support, confirm that you gone through these steps;
Have you restarted router in the last 30 days?
Have you connected your high-bandwidth devices using an ethernet cable?
Is your router positioned centrally and elevated?
Are there any obvious physical obstructions?
If you're experiencing persistent WiFi problems after implementing these solutions, our technical support team can help analyse your specific setup and provide personalised recommendations.
Contact Support: 📞 Call our support line available from 8am - 8pm, Mondays toSundays 💬. Email our technical team at support@brsk.co.uk