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  7. Improve Your WiFi Experience

Wireless Networks

Improve Your WiFi Experience

Did you know that UH has the fastest Wi-Fi network standard available?
  • We support 802.11ax in most dorms and a growing number of academic buildings
  • All other space support high speed 802.11ac
  • It offers optimal Wi-Fi speeds for Netflix and other web applications
  • Your device’s Wi-Fi adapter must be ac or ax capable to take advantage of higher speeds
  • Outdoor coverage: There is outdoor Wi-Fi coverage at the sitting area between Student Center South and Student Center North, Law Center outdoor sitting areas, PGH breezeway, GCSW breezeway, Cougar Village 1 outdoors, UH Fountain between E. Cullen and Farish building, Science and Research 2, Technology building, Fleming, Science Teaching Lab, Technology Annex, CRS, Houston Science Center, Valenti School of Comm, Campus Wellness, and Wortham Theatre.

Wi-Fi Speed Test and Optimizing Wi-Fi Settings

To optimize your Wi-Fi experience on campus, start by performing a Wi-Fi speed test at uh.edu/network-test. If your speeds are slower than 5 Mbps then you should consider trying some of the following steps to improve your Wi-Fi:

  • Adjust your power and Wi-Fi transmission settings
     Check the following settings to ensure your built-in Wi-Fi adapter is optimized
    • Disable Power Savings Mode
      Some devices will slow or turn off Wi-Fi to conserve battery power. Maximize Wi-Fi performance by changing your power settings
    • Switch Wi-Fi channel to 5GHz
      2.4GHz is common frequency for for electronic devices. To avoid wireless interference with these electronics, switch your device to 5GHz: Network Connections --> Adjust the Channel mode to prefer 5GHz
  • Upgrade your Wi-Fi adapter
    A USB Wi-Fi adapter is an easy way to enhance your device to get the fastest speeds available. UIT recommends the NetGear A6210 or the latest compatible Netgear adapter Wi-Fi 6/6E which is the Netgear A8000
    • Test a USB adapter before you purchase! Visit the Tech Commons Help Desk (8AM - 8PM, Monday to Friday) to try a Wi-Fi adapter and see how much of an improvement it is over your current Wi-Fi connection
  • Update your network drivers
    Check with your device manufacturer to see if new software drivers are available.
  • Ensure your device is up-to-date with the latest service packs and security updates