 If you are experiencing periods of slow or intermittent WiFi on a recurring basis, it's possible that some type of interference is causing the problem.
Before doing anything else, try restarting your router. If the problems persist, then it could be that something is interfering with your signal.
Electronics & Appliances
You may or a neighbor may have electronics or appliances that are the culprit. - Devices that operate at 2.4GHz - including some cordless phones, baby monitors, garage door openers and wireless video security systems - can interfere with WiFi (and vice versa).
- If you have a phone or baby monitor that you suspect is creating interference, try unplugging it. If that solves the problem, then move the base further away from your WiFi router and see if that helps.
- Very old microwaves may generate radio frequency noise - but this issue will be easy to diagnose, as the problem will only occur when the microwave is running!
- Bluetooth used to be a common source of interference, but unless you have a very old phone or bluetooth device, it is unlikely that bluetooth is the source of interference.
WiFi Traffic Jams
One of the downsides of urban density: multiple WiFi networks in close proximity compete for bandwidth. If you haven't had problems in the past, it could be that a neighbor has a new WiFi device. By default, we set your DC Access router to use a single channel, but it can be configured to automatically switch channels. However, even if you have channel switching enabled, problems can still occur when lots of networks are competing. If you suspect competing WiFi is the problem, contact us and we can evaluate the situation and help find a solution. One surefire fix is to plug into your router, either directly or by using home plugs (you will need at least two, and they are available for purchase from DC Access for $35 +tax).
What about physical interference?
Many common materials, like wood, brick and concrete, have little effect on WiFi signals. But reflective materials - including glass, tile and metal - can block WiFi signals.
One of the things we evaluate when we set up your WiFi is to position your router to minimize the impact of physical barriers between it and the wireless signal.
However, if you - or a neighbor - has had any construction or renovation done since your initial setup, it's possible that a reflective material is now interfering with your connection. Don't suffer in silence! If you experience problems with your WiFi connection and can't identify or eliminate the source of possible interference, please be in touch. Based on your location and the kind of equipment you have, we can assess your situation and suggest some solutions (some of which we can implement remotely). If the problem persists, we will send out a technician to perform some diagnostics and hone in on the problem. | 
And there's no denying that DC puts on a beautiful show each spring. In April, we were wowed by the cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin AND the cherry blossoms in Lincoln Park, just steps from our house on Capitol Hill! 
We're pleased to welcome Candace Williams to the DC Access team! As our administrative assistant, Candace handles phone calls, scheduling, payments and special projects. 
