If you have noticed that your Wi-Fi tends to drop off, slows down, and you are experiencing a lot of buffering when streaming, it may be time to learn how to change WiFi channel on Spectrum.
This is because there may be interference by other nearby routers causing traffic in one channel.
By navigating to your web browser and editing the settings, you will be able to change your Spectrum Wi-Fi channel. You can also use your phone or a computer for a smooth experience.
In areas with a high population and several routers in use simultaneously, there tends to be overcrowding as they compete to access the same Wi-Fi channels.
When there is more than the recommended number of routers accessing the Wi-Fi channel, its performance tends to be affected.
Fortunately, you can optimize your Wi-Fi performance by moving to a channel with less interference. The steps listed below will help you change your Wi-Fi channel successfully and optimize its performance.
What is A Wi-Fi Channel?
Wi-Fi usually makes use of frequencies. The two major ones are the 2.5GHz and the 5GHz. Each frequency contains a channel that Wi-Fi connects to.
Most routers come with a default setting to a given channel and may require manual change if overcrowded.
Usually, a slow connection and constant dropping off may call for a change in the Wi-Fi channel. Routers are different, and some are built in a smart way to detect interference such that they switch automatically to a less crowded channel.
Note: The best channel for a strong signal is one with less traffic.
Reasons You Need to Change Your Wi-Fi Channel
Sometimes, even with a strong signal, you will experience slow internet speeds and frequent buffering. Usually, it is because there is crowding on one Wi-Fi channel.
You will need to know the process to change the WiFi channel on Spectrum to get the most out of your connection.
Changing channels ensure you;
- Enhance your Wi-Fi performance.
- Improve coverage area.
How to Select Less Crowded Wi-Fi Channels
Before you settle on a channel, you need to analyze and select one with less traffic. To discover which channels are being heavily used, you will need to install a third-party app. Wi-Fi Analyzer is recommended for Windows and Android devices.
The app will show you how crowded each channel is, your current channel, and the strength of each channel.
Note: Pick a channel not in close range to your neighbors for better signal strength.
How to Change WiFi Channel on Spectrum
You will need to log into your router’s web interface.
Change WiFi Channel Using Spectrum Router
Open any web browser and enter your router’s IP address. If you don’t have your router’s IP address, press the ‘windows.‘ button and type ‘cmd.’ A command prompt window will pop up.
Step #1. Get Your IP Address
When the command prompt opens up, Type ‘ipconfig.‘ Scroll down, and the ‘default gateway address’ is your IP address. Once you have typed in your IP address on the address bar, your browser will show a login page or a warning screen.
If it displays a warning screen, click ‘Advanced > Proceed.’
Step #2. Login using your Credentials
Enter your credentials on the login page. You can find your credentials at the bottom of the device or on the manual.
Step #3. Choose the Channel
After you log in, navigate to the ‘Wi-Fi settings> Channel drop-down menu. Now select a channel with less traffic, as you had checked above.
To prevent your devices from reconnecting to crowded Wi-Fi channels, you will need to change the settings manually for each device that your router is broadcasting.
Step #4. Connect to the Channel
Navigate to ‘Connections > Forget this network’ Once you enter your password and connect, your devices will only connect to the selected Wi-Fi channel. Different routers have different settings hence these steps may vary depending on your model.
Note: Once you apply changes, your router may restart, and you will lose internet connection briefly.
Change Using the Admin Tool
The next method involves using the Admin tool of the route to change the WiFi channel. Make an internet connection using your wireless network.
- Navigate to Gateway > Connection > Wi-Fi.
- Click on ‘Edit’ and select either (2.4 or 5 GHz).
- Click on the radio button and select your desired channel number.
- Select ‘Save’ Settings.
How to Change WiFi Channel Using My Phone
Finally, you can also use your phone to login to router IP address and change the WiFi Channel of Spectrum. To change the Wi-Fi channel on your phone:
- Select a web browser on your mobile device.
- Type your ‘IP address’ on the address bar and log in.
- Enter the username and password.
- Click on ‘wireless.’
- In the Region menu, select your region.
- Choose a number from the channel menu for your desired channel.
- Click on the Apply button.
Note: Ensure that your phone is using the same Wi-Fi as your router when changing channels.
Still Unable to Change WiFi Channel on Spectrum?
Given that routers are different, you may have difficulties changing your Wi-Fi channel.
Sometimes when this happens, it means that Super G mode is enabled on your router. Super G mode allows the use of increased bandwidth.
If your connection is lagging under this mode, you need to disable it. Disabling it will allow you to switch to a specific channel that is less crowded.
To disable Super G mode, you need to:
Step #1 Select and open any web browser.
Step #2 Enter your router’s IP address on the address bar.
Step #3 Enter your login credentials.
Step #4 Navigate to Settings and click on Advanced>performance.
Step #5 Select Disabled next to Super G Mode.
Step #6 Select Apply and Save settings.
Depending on your router’s manufacturer, the settings may vary slightly but you should be able to change your Wi-Fi channel following the steps mentioned.
Read Next: How to Find Spectrum Account Number without Bill?
Conclusion
Hopefully, this article gives you useful tips on how to change WiFi channel on Spectrum successfully. It may be difficult to find a less crowded channel where there are too many routers in close proximity, but you can always keep checking to find a suitable channel for you.
Follow the recommended steps religiously for a successful Wi-Fi Channel change. Routers can be different, but the variations are minimal. Ensure to troubleshoot for all possible causes of a slow connection and contact your ISP if you encounter any problems.
FAQs
Q1: Why are there different Wi-Fi channels?
Ans: There are different channels because they yield better performance than others when they are not overlapping.
Q2: Are higher WiFi channels better?
Ans: 2.4 GHz WiFi is able to extend coverage because it transmits signals at a lower frequency, hence able to penetrate walls easily. On the other hand, higher 5 GHz WiFi is recommended for faster speeds especially when downloading and uploading.
Q3: Can I change Wi-Fi channels on my iPhone?
Ans: Yes. On the top of the screen, click on the wireless button. Select wireless options and choose the desired channel then save.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.