This article is part of our guide How to Improve Streaming Picture Quality on Your TV.
Your router is the hub of your home network, and a few router settings for streaming — plus a better position for the router itself — can make video noticeably smoother. None of the tips below require expert knowledge; your router's app or web interface usually has the options mentioned.
1. Put the router in the right place
- Central and elevated: a shelf in the middle of the home works better than a corner on the floor.
- In the open: not inside a cupboard or behind the TV.
- Away from interference: keep it clear of microwaves, cordless phone bases, thick walls and large metal objects.
- Antennas: if your router has adjustable antennas, try positioning some vertically and some horizontally.
2. Use the right band
Most routers broadcast on two bands:
| Band | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4 GHz | Longer range, better through walls | Slower, more crowded, more interference |
| 5 GHz | Faster, less crowded | Shorter range |
For TVs and streaming sticks within reasonable range, 5 GHz is usually better. Some routers combine both bands under one name ("band steering"); if a device keeps choosing 2.4 GHz, separate the band names so you can connect it to 5 GHz directly.
3. Reduce channel interference
In apartment buildings, many Wi-Fi networks compete on the same channels. Most routers choose a channel automatically, but it can help to:
- Restart the router so it rescans for the least crowded channel.
- Use a Wi-Fi analyser app to see which channels are busy, and select a quieter one manually if your router allows it.
4. Keep the firmware up to date
Router firmware updates fix bugs, improve performance and close security holes. Check for updates in the router's app or web interface, or enable automatic updates. Updating is also an important security step — see protecting your streaming accounts.
5. Use QoS if your router has it
Quality of Service (QoS) lets the router prioritise certain devices or types of traffic. If your household often has several heavy users at once, prioritising your TV or streaming device can help keep video smooth. Features vary widely between routers, so check your router's documentation.
6. Restart occasionally
Routers that run for weeks can become sluggish. A restart — unplugging for 30 seconds — clears temporary issues. Some routers let you schedule automatic restarts at night.
7. Limit heavy background traffic
- Schedule large downloads, game updates and cloud backups for times when nobody is watching.
- Check for devices you do not recognise on the network and change the Wi-Fi password if necessary.
8. Know when to upgrade
Consider new equipment if:
- Your router is several years old and does not support current Wi-Fi standards.
- Some rooms regularly have weak or no signal — a mesh system can help.
- Your internet plan is faster than your router can handle.
If your router was supplied by your internet provider, ask whether a newer model is available.
Wired is still best
Even the best Wi-Fi setup cannot beat a cable for consistency. If the TV is near the router, connect it with Ethernet. See Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet for streaming.
Frequently asked questions
Does changing DNS improve streaming speed?
It can slightly affect how quickly connections start, but it rarely changes streaming quality. Placement, band choice and a wired connection make a much bigger difference.
Should I turn off 2.4 GHz?
Usually not — some devices only support 2.4 GHz. Separating the band names lets you choose 5 GHz for streaming devices.
How often should I restart my router?
There is no fixed rule. Restarting when you notice slowdowns, or scheduling an occasional automatic restart, is enough for most homes.
Router quick wins
Place the router centrally and in the open, use 5 GHz for streaming devices, keep firmware updated, prioritise with QoS where available and restart occasionally. For the smoothest results, use a cable. For more fixes, see how to reduce buffering, and for the settings that affect what you see on screen, read how to improve streaming picture quality.