WiFi and IP Cam issue
 

For several years I have had a web cam installed, so I could watch the front of the house for the postie etc.. I have two dogs, the postie often delivers at variable times, so I didn't want the dogs out, when (s)he was on the way.


It was in an awkward place to get a LAN cable to so for all of those years I used WiFi. On the original router it would sometimes just drop off the network every few days. I replaced that copper router 2 or 3 months ago, with an FTTC router and the disconnections became much more frequent. I tried moving the router so it was much nearer, just a few feet from the camera - that didn't help.


Checking the router remotely, it seemed the WiFi access on the router was simply shutting down. Trying to access it from my laptop, it would disappear from the list of access points.



I have two dual band WiFi routers, one in the loft, a second on the ground floor.



Over the weekend I decided the only solution was to climb in the loft and run a LAN cable to it. It works absolutely reliably now.

I had the WiFi router access point about 15 feet away and about three feet above through a floor, around 16.5 feet LOS. I then tried moving the AP so it was almost directly above around 6 feet LOS, but still through the floor. Floor was just timber and plasterboard, but it didn't help. Works fine now, on the wired LAN.

Harry, Your router may just need a firmware update, this can be done by logging into your router or giving your service provider a call, this often solves most Wifi issues. You could also check your device for a driver update, old outdated drivers cause no end of problems.

Otherwise radio interference can be another problem, everyday household devices such as cordless phones, microwaves and bluetooth devices can effect your Wifi, even something your neighbour is using.

Your line may even be unstable which is effecting the Wifi, get your provider to perform a line test, this often solves many issues.

Dual band routers are great, if you can split devices over the 2.4HGz and 5GHz, this often helps.

I have - 2x 2.4Ghz and 2x 5Ghz. The cam only has 2.4Ghz available.



Anyway, as said all works fine now and at a higher frame rate, with a wired LAN connection to it.

We used to have WiFi cameras to keep an eye on our bunnies but after many issues dropping out etc I changed to POE hikvision setup and it’s been great since.
I put it down to signal problems or poor quality cameras which is why I went with a decent set up.