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, 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