Southern Wireless

Southern Wireless We are a family-owned and locally operated wireless internet service provider (WISP).

Weak Wi-Fi is frustrating. Here are 10 proven ways to improve your signal.1. Move your router to a central location. Wi-...
08/20/2026

Weak Wi-Fi is frustrating. Here are 10 proven ways to improve your signal.

1. Move your router to a central location. Wi-Fi radiates outward in all directions. Centering it maximizes coverage.

2. Elevate your router. Place it on a shelf or desk, not on the floor.

3. Keep it away from interference. Microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors all use the 2.4 GHz band.

4. Use the 5 GHz band for nearby devices. Faster speeds for devices close to the router.

5. Use the 2.4 GHz band for far devices. Better range, ideal for smart home devices.

6. Update your router firmware. Manufacturers regularly release performance improvements.

7. Reduce connected devices. Devices on your network compete for bandwidth, even on standby.

8. Add a Wi-Fi extender or mesh node. Purpose-built for extending coverage through difficult structures.

9. Change your Wi-Fi channel. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to find the least congested channel.

10. Upgrade your router. A Wi-Fi 6 router handles more devices simultaneously and at faster speeds.

Still struggling? Call Southern Wireless. Sometimes the issue is the connection itself, not your hardware.

If your Wi-Fi signal is weak in certain rooms, the building materials in your home may be the cause.Materials that signi...
08/18/2026

If your Wi-Fi signal is weak in certain rooms, the building materials in your home may be the cause.

Materials that significantly block Wi-Fi:

Metal: The strongest blocker. Metal walls, appliances, filing cabinets, and foil insulation all reflect and absorb Wi-Fi signals.

Concrete and brick: Dense materials that absorb radio waves. Signal degrades significantly through thick concrete walls.

Water: Aquariums, water heaters, and even large numbers of houseplants can absorb Wi-Fi signal.

Thick wood: Less impact than concrete, but multiple layers reduce signal noticeably.

Glass: Minimal impact, though reflective glass (like some tinted windows) can create interference.

Tile: Dense tile and grout, common in bathrooms and kitchens, can create signal dead zones.

What to do:
Position your router centrally and away from metal appliances. Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system to bridge signal through dense walls.

You have likely seen this tip circulate online. Here is what it is actually about and a more important home security tip...
08/15/2026

You have likely seen this tip circulate online. Here is what it is actually about and a more important home security tip to know.

The aluminum foil doorknob claim:
The idea involves protecting against static electricity or detecting tampering. The practical effectiveness of this method is limited and largely anecdotal.

But it raises a real point about home security.

The home network security threat most people overlook:
Your Wi-Fi router is the front door to your digital home. If it is unsecured, anyone within range can potentially access your network.

How to actually secure your home network:
1. Change the default admin username and password on your router immediately
2. Use WPA3 or WPA2 encryption (never WEP)
3. Create a separate guest network for visitors and smart devices
4. Keep your router firmware updated
5. Disable remote management if you do not use it

Protecting your home starts at the router, not the doorknob.

It is one of the most shared life hacks on the internet. But does it actually work?What aluminum foil actually does:Alum...
08/13/2026

It is one of the most shared life hacks on the internet. But does it actually work?

What aluminum foil actually does:
Aluminum foil reflects and blocks Wi-Fi radio waves. Wrapping your router in foil does not boost signal. It blocks or redirects it, which typically reduces performance.

The partial truth:
Parabolic reflectors (curved foil shapes placed behind the router, not around it) can marginally direct signal in one direction. Studies have shown modest directional gains in very specific configurations.

The reality:
The effect is minimal compared to purpose-built solutions and inconsistent across different environments.

What actually works to improve Wi-Fi signal:
Router placement: Central, elevated, away from walls and appliances
Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems: Proven, scalable solutions
Router upgrade: Newer hardware with better antennas makes a measurable difference
Channel selection: Avoid congested channels in your router settings

Save the foil for your kitchen.

The short answer: probably not.Here is why a 10-year-old modem is holding you back.Speed limitations:Older modems are bu...
08/11/2026

The short answer: probably not.

Here is why a 10-year-old modem is holding you back.

Speed limitations:
Older modems are built for slower DOCSIS standards. Even if you pay for a fast internet plan, an outdated modem caps the speeds your devices can actually receive.

Security vulnerabilities:
Modems that no longer receive manufacturer updates are exposed to known security flaws. This puts your entire home network at risk.

Compatibility issues:
ISPs regularly update their network infrastructure. Older modems may experience compatibility problems as networks evolve.

Technology gap:
A modem from 2015 was not designed for the connected homes of 2025. Smart TVs, home security cameras, and multiple laptops were not the norm a decade ago.

What to do:
Contact your ISP and ask whether your modem is still supported on their network.

Yes, you can buy your own router. Here is what you need to know before you do.Compatible hardware:Confirm the router is ...
08/08/2026

Yes, you can buy your own router. Here is what you need to know before you do.

Compatible hardware:
Confirm the router is compatible with your ISP's connection type. Most routers work with standard setups, but it is worth checking first.

If you have a modem/router combo from your ISP:
Enable bridge mode on the ISP device first. This lets your new router handle everything properly.

What to look for when buying:
Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is the current standard. Worth the investment.
Dual or tri-band: More bands mean less congestion across devices.
Coverage area: Match the router's stated coverage to your home's size.

After purchase:
Setup typically takes 15 to 30 minutes via the manufacturer's app or a web browser.

Questions? Call us. We are happy to help you choose the right equipment for your setup.

Router and modem are not the same thing. Knowing the difference saves you money.The Modem:The modem connects your home t...
08/06/2026

Router and modem are not the same thing. Knowing the difference saves you money.

The Modem:
The modem connects your home to the internet. It translates signals from your ISP into a format your home network can use. Your ISP typically provides or rents this to you.

The Router:
The router takes the internet connection from your modem and distributes it wirelessly (Wi-Fi) or via ethernet cables to devices in your home.

The Gateway (combo unit):
Many ISPs now provide a single device that functions as both a modem and router. Convenient, but less flexible.

When to replace the modem:
If speeds are consistently low even on a wired connection. If your ISP recommends an upgrade.

When to replace the router:
If Wi-Fi coverage is poor, dead zones exist, or too many devices are struggling to connect.

Pro tip: Before purchasing anything, call your ISP. Many connection issues are solved without new hardware.

Your router may be the source of your internet problems. Here are the signs.1. Slow speeds even when close to the router...
08/04/2026

Your router may be the source of your internet problems. Here are the signs.

1. Slow speeds even when close to the router.
Run a speed test directly beside your router. If speeds are far below your plan, the router may be the bottleneck.

2. Frequent disconnections.
If devices drop connection regularly under normal load, the hardware is likely struggling.

3. Overheating.
Routers should be warm, not hot. If yours is extremely hot to the touch, the internal components are degrading.

4. Dead zones throughout your home.
A healthy router should cover your home adequately. Growing dead zones indicate signal degradation.

5. Old age (5+ years).
A router from 2018 is not built for 2025 household demands.

6. No firmware updates available.
If the manufacturer no longer supports your model with security patches, it is time to replace it.

When in doubt, call your ISP before buying new hardware. They can help you determine whether the issue is the router or the connection itself.

In most cases, yes. But there are a few things to know first.If your ISP provides a modem/router combo (gateway device):...
08/01/2026

In most cases, yes. But there are a few things to know first.

If your ISP provides a modem/router combo (gateway device):
You cannot simply swap in your own router without first putting the gateway into bridge mode. Connecting a second router without doing this creates a double NAT issue that slows your network.

If you have a separate modem and router:
You can unplug your old router and plug in the new one. You will need to set up the new router's Wi-Fi name and password through its admin interface.

Steps to follow:
1. Power off your modem
2. Connect your new router to the modem via ethernet
3. Power on the modem, then the router
4. Follow the new router's setup instructions
5. Update your Wi-Fi password on all connected devices

It takes about 20 minutes. If you get stuck, your ISP or the router manufacturer's support line can walk you through it.

Most people replace their router far less often than they should.General recommendation: Every 3 to 5 years.Here is why:...
07/30/2026

Most people replace their router far less often than they should.

General recommendation: Every 3 to 5 years.

Here is why:

Wi-Fi standards evolve. Routers built for older Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) standards cannot take advantage of modern Wi-Fi 6 speeds, even if your internet plan supports them.

Security vulnerabilities. Older routers no longer receive firmware updates, leaving your network exposed.

Processing power. Modern households have significantly more connected devices than they did five years ago. Older routers struggle to manage the load.

Performance degradation. Hardware components wear over time. Speeds, range, and stability all decline gradually.

If your router is more than 5 years old and you are experiencing connection issues, a new router should be your first step before calling your provider.

Address

PO Box 137
Cardston, AB

Telephone

+14036531687

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