Wi-Fi is convenient, but walls, floors and neighbouring networks all cost it speed. When a video call stutters or a download crawls, the cause is often the path between the router and the device rather than the internet plan.

An Ethernet cable is still the most reliable connection. Desktop computers, TVs and game consoles that stay in one place are good candidates: a cable gives them a steady connection and leaves the Wi-Fi to phones and laptops.

For Wi-Fi, place the router high and in the open, near the middle of the home, not in a cupboard or behind the TV. Two or three mesh units cover larger homes better than one powerful router in a corner.

If you cannot run a cable through the walls, powerline adapters carry the network over the electrical wiring. Results vary with the wiring, so test the speed where you plan to use them.

Restart the router now and then, keep its firmware updated, and change the default admin password. An old router can also hold back a new phone or laptop, since both ends must support the same Wi-Fi standard.