Does your internet slow down during the holidays? This may sound like an urban legend, but holiday lights may be part of the problem. While you should contact your internet service provider whenever you experience sluggish speeds, there are many ways to improve connectivity yourself. Here’s what to know to enjoy the best possible speeds this season.

How Could Holiday Lights Affect Wi-Fi Connectivity?

Like other electronic devices, including baby monitors and microwaves, holiday lights emit electromagnetic frequencies. These frequencies could cause electrical interference with your router, slowing down internet navigation and causing streaming services to buffer.

You might also experience problems with lights that are enabled by Wi-Fi. When multiple devices are connected to the same router, the signal is spread too thin.

In most cases, the interference created by holiday lights is so minimal that it won’t impact your internet service. To check, monitor the connection strength while the lights are on and off. If the signal weakens when the lights are on, they may be the source of slower speeds.

What Can You Do to Improve Your Connection?

If you determine that your lights are causing the issue, turning them off while you use the internet is the quickest way to fix the problem. Your signal may also improve if you power off a few other devices connected to your network, including gaming systems, smart TVs, and tablets.

Whether or not your lights are causing the issue, Wi-Fi connectivity can worsen if the router is plugged into an overloaded outlet or near an appliance. To limit interference, move your router to a high shelf away from electronics.

Routers also broadcast data through channels. If you live in an apartment complex or near another dwelling, neighbors’ routers may be causing interference by transmitting data over the same channel. Adjusting your router’s settings to a less-used channel may improve your connection. Your owner’s manual contains instructions on how to switch it away from the default channel.

If you frequently experience slow internet, turn to WTV. Serving residents of Orange County, NY, and Northern New Jersey, this provider will equip your home with download speeds as high as 75 Megabits per second. Available for an affordable rate, this plan will support all of your online activities, including streaming, gaming, communication, and shopping. Visit them online to see what plans are available, or call (845) 986-8080 to upgrade your internet service package.