If you are facing poor WiFi performance and random connectivity issues while using a Windows PC to connect to certain WiFi hotspots, here are a few things you may want to try. Maybe even the Wireless Network connection gets dropped!
Poor WiFi performance on Windows laptop
In most cases, this can occur if your Windows computer is on battery power since some WiFi hotspots use wireless APs or routers that do not support the 802.11 Power Save protocol.
Plug in and connect to the Mains and see if that makes a difference because when the PC is plugged into a power source, the wireless network adapter is configured to use Maximum Performance mode, which turns off the 802.11 power save mode.
When an 802.11 wireless network adapter that is set to use power save mode wants to enter a sleep state, the adapter indicates this intention to the wireless AP. The adapter does this by setting the power save option in its packets or in the 802.11 frames that it sends to the wireless AP, states KB928152.
If connecting to the Mains does not work for you, you should configure the wireless network adapter to use the Maximum Performance setting when Windows is configured to use the Balanced power plan or the Power saver power plan.
To do this, open the Power Options Control Panel applet and click on the Change plan settings link, next to the Balanced or Power Saver plan. Next click on the Change advanced power settings link. Now in the Power Options settings box which opens, scroll down to and expand Wireless Adapter Settings. Also next, expand Power Saving Mode. Now, click On the battery drop-down menu and select Maximum Performance.
Click OK and exit.
If even this does not work for you, you should consider changing the Power Plan itself. By default, Windows uses the Balanced power plan. Use the High-Performance power plan and see if that helps.
To do this, click on the Battery icon in the taskbar and select High Performance.
You may also change WiFi Roaming Sensitivity or Aggressiveness to improve Wi-Fi reception & performance.
You can also Improve Wireless Connection Latency with WLAN Optimizer.
Also read:
- Increase WiFi Speed and Signal strength.
- Low Wi-Fi signal strength
- Improve Wireless Network Signal on Windows
- Change WiFi Roaming Sensitivity or Aggressiveness to improve Wi-Fi reception
Let us know if this worked for you or if you have any other ideas!
Why is my Wi-Fi so slow if my connection is strong?
Your Wi-Fi may be slow despite a strong connection due to interference from walls or devices, outdated hardware, or too many connected devices. Check for network congestion, update drivers, and scan for malware. Position your router optimally and consider using a Wi-Fi extender or upgrading your equipment for better speeds.
What would cause reduced Wi-Fi performance?
Reduced Wi-Fi performance can be caused by physical obstructions like walls, doors, and furniture that interfere with signal strength. Materials such as concrete, metal, and plaster can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals. To improve performance, place routers in central locations, away from these barriers, to ensure optimal coverage and connectivity throughout the area.
Just changed the settings as advised and, what do you know, I’ve got better WiFi performance. Just one question, my OS is WINS 7-64 and not WINS 8 so why was this happening to me??? Still, i thank you for the tip and know my WiFi has a much better output than before.
This applies to Windows 8.1, Windows 7 and Windows Vista too. Edited and mentioned it in the post. :)
Enable download over metered connection fixed my dropped wi-fi problem.
guys, on windows 10 I experience weird wi-fi connection problems. When setting pc on High performance wi fi is not stable, sometimes even turns off and on balanced works fine with full signal and strength. On both power plans, wi fi is set to maximum performance and drivers are updated. Any ideas what could it be? Thanks in advance.