Wifi woes: do coins really boost your signal?

Frustrated with spotty WiFi? Users are resorting to bizarre home remedies – like wrapping routers in aluminum foil or placing coins on top. But do these viral tricks actually work? Experts say no, and some methods could even damage your equipment.

The coin conundrum: a tech myth debunked

The trend of placing coins, particularly 1 and 2 euro pieces, on routers is gaining traction online. The theory? The metal, especially bimetallic coins containing copper, aluminum, zinc, and tin, acts as an antenna extension and stabilizes the physical unit, improving WiFi quality. But this is a technological fallacy.

Small metallic objects like coins, keys, or cutlery are utterly insignificant compared to the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz radio frequencies routers use. There’s no scientific backing for this claim. In fact, placing metal near your router can negatively affect its performance.

Why the Metal Matters: While it may not cause noticeable radio interference like a mirror, the metal could act as a frequency repellent, diverting the signal. More seriously, it can obstruct ventilation grilles, leading to overheating and shortening the lifespan of internal components.

A recent app test confirmed that my own router was performing poorly. The solution? Not a coin, but a replacement router. “I’m paying for fiber, I’m not going to waste it,” one user lamented on a tech forum.

Better solutions for wifi problems

Instead of chasing viral fixes from TikTok and Instagram, experts recommend proven methods. These include optimizing router placement, updating firmware, changing the Wi-Fi channel to avoid network congestion, and properly utilizing the router’s antennas.

These DIY fixes, often presented as miraculous solutions, could create more problems than they solve. The allure of a quick fix is strong, but often misleading.

The best approach? Focus on established best practices. Because a damaged router is a costly problem.