Turning on a microwave oven can affect and diminish the WiFi signal in a house due to electromagnetic interference. Microwave ovens operate at a frequency of around 2.4 GHz, which is the same frequency used by many WiFi routers for 802.11b/g/n networks. This means that both the microwave oven and the WiFi router are using the same frequency band.
When a microwave oven is turned on, it emits electromagnetic waves in the 2.4 GHz frequency range to cook food. These waves can interfere with the WiFi signal, causing it to weaken or drop temporarily. This interference can lead to slower internet speeds, connection drops, or overall instability in the WiFi network.
Here are some ways to minimize the impact of microwave interference on your WiFi signal:
Distance: Keep your WiFi router as far away from the microwave oven as possible. The farther the router is from the microwave, the less likely it is to be affected by the interference.
Router Placement: Choose a central and elevated location for your WiFi router. Placing the router on a higher shelf or mounting it on a wall can help to reduce interference from nearby devices, including microwaves.
Change WiFi Channels: Most WiFi routers have the ability to operate on different channels within the 2.4 GHz frequency range. By accessing your router's settings, you can try changing the channel to see if it reduces interference from the microwave.
Use 5 GHz Frequency: If your WiFi router supports 5 GHz frequency bands (802.11ac or 802.11ax), switch to this frequency instead. Microwave ovens do not operate in the 5 GHz range, so you'll likely experience less interference.
Upgrade to a Dual-Band Router: Dual-band routers can operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands simultaneously. This allows you to connect devices that support 5 GHz to that band while leaving the 2.4 GHz band less congested and more resistant to microwave interference.
WiFi Extenders/Boosters: If you have a large house with WiFi dead spots, consider using WiFi extenders or boosters to improve coverage. By spreading out the WiFi coverage, you may reduce the impact of microwave interference in specific areas.
Remember that while these measures can help minimize interference, there might still be some level of impact on the WiFi signal when the microwave is in use. Microwave ovens are designed with shielding to prevent excessive interference, but some minor effects are still possible, especially with older microwave models or those with damaged shielding.