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SpeedTouch 585, TP-Link 8901, 8950, 8951, 8961 & 9970, Sagemcom and SmartRG DSL modems are capable of serving as a base station for wireless connections to Wi-Fi-equipped devices.
<!--<div class="ncfrightbox"> {{Template:Troubleshooting DSL Links}} </div> -->
Most modems sold by NCF can provide Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi-equipped devices. Wi-Fi broadcasting can be turned off (disabled) by configuring the modem. If enabled, devices will be able to connect to the modem over Wi-Fi, based on how it was configured.


The wireless capability can be turned off (disabled) by configuring the modem. If off, the WLAN light will be unlit.
= NCF Configuration =
{{Back to the Top}}
NCF recommends using the highest security mode that your devices can support; generally, this means WPA2-PSK with AES encryption. None of the modems we sell currently support WPA3.


If enabled, the modem will support wireless connections based on how it has been configured. The main configuration consideration is which security mode to use. NCF recommends using the highest security mode that your devices can support; generally, this means WPA2-PSK.
For information about configuring the modem for Wi-Fi, please consult the [[Modem Manuals|manual for your DSL modem]] or [[Cable Modem Manuals|cable modem]].
* Hitron cable modems with wireless capability are not pre-configured by NCF. When setting up your modem for the first time, you will select a Wi-Fi network name and password as part of the required Quick Setup.
* SmartRG cable modems with wireless capability are not pre-configured by NCF, but come with a default Wi-Fi network names and passwords printed on the label on the bottom of the modem.
* SmartRG and TP-Link DSL modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are configured with wireless enabled using WPA2 AES encryption. Your default Wi-Fi password is your NCF [[DSL password]], which was provided on a sheet that came with the modem.
* SpeedTouch modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are configured with wireless enabled in the highest security mode (WPA-PSK, version WPA2), with the '''default password''', which is '''printed on the label on the bottom of the modem''' or your NCF [[DSL password]].


With SpeedTouch modems the configured security mode is indicated by the colour of the WLAN light on your modem:
= Troubleshooting Wi-Fi=
*'''Green''' means wireless is enabled and the modem has been configured for WPA-PSK.
{{Back to the Top}}
*'''Amber''' means wireless is enabled and the modem has been configured for WEP.
Most problems with Wi-Fi are a result of interference from other wireless or electronic devices, or signal strength problems (e.g., due to obstructions or distance).
*'''Red''' means wireless is enabled and the modem has unencrypted wireless.


For information about configuring the modem and your computer for wireless, please consult the [[Modem manuals (DSL)|manual for your modem]].
==Antennae==
{{Back to the Top}}
As a first step, ensure your modem's antennae is installed and that the connection is tight. The antennae should be oriented vertically also.. Some modems do not have external antennae that you will be able to orient or adjust. Raising your modem, or mounting it higher in your premises, can also help its range.


== NCF configuration ==
==Signal Strength problems==
SpeedTouch modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are configured with wireless enabled in the highest security mode (WPA-PSK, version WPA2), with the '''default password''', which is '''printed on the label on the bottom of the modem''' or your NCF [[DSL password]].
{{Back to the Top}}
If you have a strong, solid signal in some parts of your home but not in others, then obstructions or distance could be playing a role.


TP-Link, Sagemcom & SmartRG modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are also configured with wireless enabled in the highest security mode (WPA-PSK, version WPA2). The default password is your NCF [[DSL password]], which was provided to you on a sheet that came with the modem.
Large appliances, such as refrigerators, can block Wi-Fi signals if the appliance is between your device and the modem. This can sometimes be resolved easily by moving you and/or your device from one part of the room to another.


== Troubleshooting Wireless ==
If your home is large and you are just running out of Wi-Fi range, then a Wi-Fi repeater (also called a range extender) may be required. These can be purchased from NCF, and are placed around your home to extend the Wi-Fi range to other areas.
Most problems with wireless have to do with interference from other wireless or electronic devices, or signal strength problems (e.g., due to obstructions or distance).


===Antennae===
==Interference==
As a first step make sure your modem's antennae is installed and that the connection is tight. The antennae should be oriented vertically, too.
{{Back to the Top}}
The most common problem with Wi-Fi is intermittent and unexplained dropped connections. This is often caused by interference from other Wi-Fi networks in your neighbourhood.


===Interference===
In North America there are only eleven 802.11n 2.4 GHz wireless channels available on which to broadcast Wi-Fi signals. Other than convincing most of your neighbours to turn off their networks, the best strategy is to look for a channel that has less interference with a Wi-Fi Analyzer and manually configuring your modem to broadcast on it.
The most common problem with wireless is intermittent and unexplained dropped connections. This is often caused by interference from other wireless networks in your neighbourhood.


In North America there are only eleven 802.11n wireless channels available on which to broadcast Wi-Fi signals. If you live in a densely populated area, especially if you live in an apartment building or townhouse complex, there will likely be far more than eleven wireless networks within range of your computer, all competing for channels. You can easily check this on most mobile devices, including laptops, by clicking on the connection icon and then seeing how many networks appear. If there are more than eleven then some interference is almost guaranteed.
=== Using Wi-Fi Analyzers===
{{Back to the Top}}
When troubleshooting inference on Wi-Fi networks (especially 2.4 GHz) it is good to first check to see which channels are busiest in your vicinity. You can use any of the following tools to make that assessment:
*[[WiFi Analyzer for Windows 10]]
*[[WiFi Analyzer for Windows]]
*[[WiFi Analyzer for MacOS|WiFi Analyzer for macOS]]
*[[WiFi Analyzer for Linux]]
*[[WiFi Analyzer for Android]]
*[[WiFi Analyzer for iOS]]


Other than convincing most of your neighbours to turn off their networks, the best strategy is to manually look for a channel that has less interference. Most wireless modems have a default automatic mode, which seems to result in most ending up on channel one. You can manually change the channel by [[DSL modem web interface|signing into the interface]] and going to:
===Changing Wi-Fi Channels===
{{Back to the Top}}
Once you know which channels are the least busy, you can change your Wi-Fi channel on your modem to potentially improve its signal strength and coverage. The following will help you make those changes for of our most commonly used modems:
[[File:TP-Link 8950 Change Channel.png|right|thumb|How to change the wireless channel on a TP-Link 8950ND]]
[[File:TP-Link 8950 Change Channel.png|right|thumb|How to change the wireless channel on a TP-Link 8950ND]]
*[[WiFi Changes for Hitron Modems|Changing WiFi Channels on Hitron modems]]
*[[Changing WiFi Channels on SmartRG modems]]
*[[Changing WiFi Channels on TP-Link TD-W9970]]
*[[:File:CHANGING_THE_WIRELESS_CHANNEL_ON_TP-LINK_TD-8951ND.pdf|Changing WiFi Channels on TP-Link TD-W8951ND]]
*[[Changing WiFi Channels on Sagemcom 2864]]
*[[Changing WiFi Channels on SpeedTouch ST585]]
*Changing WiFi Channels on TP-Link 8950ND: change the channel by [[Modem Web Interface|signing into the interface]] and doing the following:
**''Wireless&rarr;Basic'' and then ''Channel'', select a new channel, and then ''Save/Apply''.


;Speedtouch 585
You may have to try a few channels before you find one that results in the minimum number of dropped connections.  In congested areas, like apartment buildings, there may be 30 or 40 Wi-Fi networks competing for the same eleven channels. In this case you may need more capable Wi-Fi equipment or may just have to be connected by Ethernet cable to access the internet.
:''Home Network&rarr;WLAN&rarr;Configure&rarr;Channel Selection&rarr;Manual'' and then ''Channel'' and select a new one.
;TP-Link 8950ND
:''Wireless&rarr;Basic'' and then ''Channel'', select a new one and then ''Save/Apply''.
;TP-Link 8901G, 8951ND and 8961ND
:''Interface Setup&rarr;Wireless'' and then ''Access Point Settings'' and ''Channel'', select a new one and then ''Save''.
[[File:TP-Link 8901G Change frequency.JPG|right|thumb|How to change the wireless channel on a TP-Link 8901G]]
You will probably have to try out a few before you find one that results in the minimum number of dropped connections.  


In some situations, like apartment buildings, there may be 30 or 40 networks all competing for the same eleven channels. In this case Wi-Fi may be simply unworkable in your location and all devices may just have to be connected by Ethernet cable to access the internet. For hints on this see [[Home wiring (DSL)]].
Note: The TP-Link TD-W8951N and TP-Link TD-W8961ND both automatically select the least congested wireless channel. Turning the modem off and on should trigger this change. You can confirm this change with a Wi-Fi analyzer.


===Signal strength problems===
=== Changing Wi-Fi Name ===
If you have a good solid signal in some parts of your home but not in others, then obstructions or just distance may be playing a role.
If your modem uses both the 2.4 and 5GHz WiFi bands, changing the name of the 5Ghz band and using it independently may improve your WiFi performance.


Large appliances, such as refrigerators, can block Wi-Fi signals if the appliance is between your device and the modem. This can sometimes be resolved easily by moving you and your device from one part of the room to another, by moving your chair or similar solutions.
* [[Changing WiFi Name or Password on SmartRG modems]]


If your home is large and you are just running out of range, then a Wi-Fi repeater (also called a range extender) may be required to be located to a middle floor. These can be purchased at most computer supply shops.
=External links=
 
== Using WiFi Analyzer and Changing WiFi Channels==
When troubleshooting inference on wifi networks (especially 2.4Ghz) it is good to first check to see which channels are busiest at your premise. You can use any of the following tools to make that assessment:
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/6/6e/WiFi_Analyzer_Windows.pdf WiFi Analyzer for Windows]
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/4/43/WiFi_Analyzer_Android.pdf WiFi Analyzer for Android]
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/b/bb/WiFi_Analyzer_IOS_AirPort_Utility.pdf WiFi Analyzer for IOS]
 
Once you know which channels are the least busy, you can change your WiFi channel on your modem to potential improve it's signal strength and coverage. The following documents will help you make those changes some of our most commonly used modems:
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/7/79/Changing_Wireless_Channels_on_SmartRG_SR505N.pdf Changing WiFi Channels on SmartRG SR505N]
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/a/a3/Changing_Wireless_Channels_on_TD-W9970.pdf Changing WiFi Channels on TP-Link TD-W9970]
*[https://www.ncf.ca/ncf/support/w/images/0/07/Changing_Wireless_Channels_on_Sagemcom_2864.pdf Changing WiFi Channels on Sagemcom 2864]
 
Note: The TP-Link TD-W8951N and TD-W8961ND both automatically change wireless changing to the least congested channel. Turning the modem off and on should trigger this change if it's not occurring soon enough. You can confirm this change with the WiFi analyzer tools above.
 
==See also==
*[[Copyright Infringement]]
*[[KRACK Vulnerability]]
 
==External links==
*[http://electronicdesign.com/communications/wireless-spectrum-conundrum Wireless Spectrum Conundrum] Basic Wireless Spectrum Information, by Lou Frenzel, Electronic Design
*[http://electronicdesign.com/communications/wireless-spectrum-conundrum Wireless Spectrum Conundrum] Basic Wireless Spectrum Information, by Lou Frenzel, Electronic Design
*[http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/4-reasons-wi-fi-slow-fix/ 4 Reasons Why Your Wi-Fi Is So Slow (And How to Fix Them)] by James Frew, Make Use Of
*[http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/4-reasons-wi-fi-slow-fix/ 4 Reasons Why Your Wi-Fi Is So Slow (And How to Fix Them)] by James Frew, Make Use Of
*[http://blog.macsales.com/36669-rocket-yard-guide-how-to-stay-safe-when-using-public-wi-fi How to Stay Safe When Using Public Wi-Fi], by Steve Sande, Rocketyard
*[http://blog.macsales.com/36669-rocket-yard-guide-how-to-stay-safe-when-using-public-wi-fi How to Stay Safe When Using Public Wi-Fi], by Steve Sande, Rocketyard
*[http://www.androidauthority.com/capture-data-open-wi-fi-726356/ How easy is it to capture data on public free Wi-Fi?] by Gary Sims, Android Authority
*[http://www.androidauthority.com/capture-data-open-wi-fi-726356/ How easy is it to capture data on public free Wi-Fi?] by Gary Sims, Android Authority
*[https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/4-things-that-might-be-slowing-down-your-home-network/ 9 Things That Might Be Slowing Down Your Home Wi-Fi Network] by James Bruce, Make Use Of


[[Category: DSL]]
[[Category:DSL]]
[[Category:Troubleshooting]]
[[Category:Home Network]]

Latest revision as of 12:43, 19 September 2022

Most modems sold by NCF can provide Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi-equipped devices. Wi-Fi broadcasting can be turned off (disabled) by configuring the modem. If enabled, devices will be able to connect to the modem over Wi-Fi, based on how it was configured.

NCF Configuration

Back to the Top

NCF recommends using the highest security mode that your devices can support; generally, this means WPA2-PSK with AES encryption. None of the modems we sell currently support WPA3.

For information about configuring the modem for Wi-Fi, please consult the manual for your DSL modem or cable modem.

  • Hitron cable modems with wireless capability are not pre-configured by NCF. When setting up your modem for the first time, you will select a Wi-Fi network name and password as part of the required Quick Setup.
  • SmartRG cable modems with wireless capability are not pre-configured by NCF, but come with a default Wi-Fi network names and passwords printed on the label on the bottom of the modem.
  • SmartRG and TP-Link DSL modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are configured with wireless enabled using WPA2 AES encryption. Your default Wi-Fi password is your NCF DSL password, which was provided on a sheet that came with the modem.
  • SpeedTouch modems with wireless capability configured by NCF are configured with wireless enabled in the highest security mode (WPA-PSK, version WPA2), with the default password, which is printed on the label on the bottom of the modem or your NCF DSL password.

Troubleshooting Wi-Fi

Back to the Top

Most problems with Wi-Fi are a result of interference from other wireless or electronic devices, or signal strength problems (e.g., due to obstructions or distance).

Antennae

Back to the Top

As a first step, ensure your modem's antennae is installed and that the connection is tight. The antennae should be oriented vertically also.. Some modems do not have external antennae that you will be able to orient or adjust. Raising your modem, or mounting it higher in your premises, can also help its range.

Signal Strength problems

Back to the Top

If you have a strong, solid signal in some parts of your home but not in others, then obstructions or distance could be playing a role.

Large appliances, such as refrigerators, can block Wi-Fi signals if the appliance is between your device and the modem. This can sometimes be resolved easily by moving you and/or your device from one part of the room to another.

If your home is large and you are just running out of Wi-Fi range, then a Wi-Fi repeater (also called a range extender) may be required. These can be purchased from NCF, and are placed around your home to extend the Wi-Fi range to other areas.

Interference

Back to the Top

The most common problem with Wi-Fi is intermittent and unexplained dropped connections. This is often caused by interference from other Wi-Fi networks in your neighbourhood.

In North America there are only eleven 802.11n 2.4 GHz wireless channels available on which to broadcast Wi-Fi signals. Other than convincing most of your neighbours to turn off their networks, the best strategy is to look for a channel that has less interference with a Wi-Fi Analyzer and manually configuring your modem to broadcast on it.

Using Wi-Fi Analyzers

Back to the Top

When troubleshooting inference on Wi-Fi networks (especially 2.4 GHz) it is good to first check to see which channels are busiest in your vicinity. You can use any of the following tools to make that assessment:

Changing Wi-Fi Channels

Back to the Top

Once you know which channels are the least busy, you can change your Wi-Fi channel on your modem to potentially improve its signal strength and coverage. The following will help you make those changes for of our most commonly used modems:

How to change the wireless channel on a TP-Link 8950ND

You may have to try a few channels before you find one that results in the minimum number of dropped connections. In congested areas, like apartment buildings, there may be 30 or 40 Wi-Fi networks competing for the same eleven channels. In this case you may need more capable Wi-Fi equipment or may just have to be connected by Ethernet cable to access the internet.

Note: The TP-Link TD-W8951N and TP-Link TD-W8961ND both automatically select the least congested wireless channel. Turning the modem off and on should trigger this change. You can confirm this change with a Wi-Fi analyzer.

Changing Wi-Fi Name

If your modem uses both the 2.4 and 5GHz WiFi bands, changing the name of the 5Ghz band and using it independently may improve your WiFi performance.

External links

Retrieved from "https://help.ncf.ca/index.php?title=WiFi&oldid=7960"