This reinforces just how important a reliable, high-speed internet connection is, and there isn’t anything more reliable or faster than fibre broadband. Here’s our best advice for making the most out of your connection at home. 

1. Make sure you’re on fibre 

Having an unlimited fibre plan means you won’t need to ever worry, as there are no data caps and it will provide you with the fast speeds required to carry out your daily work tasks. Use our address checker, to ensure Enable fibre is available at your address.

2. Make sure you’re on the RIGHT fibre plan

Fibre plans come in different speeds starting at 30Mbps up to 1Gbps and speed is the key to good broadband performance. Greater data needs and or more people using your connection at the same, requires more speed. Talk to an internet provider or even shop around to check that you’re getting the best fibre broadband speed. 

3. Ethernet cables can improve Wi-Fi coverage in your home

Perhaps you aren’t able to base your home office close to your Wi-Fi modem and this can occasionally cause a coverage issue. It’s important to have your devices close to your modem to ensure you’re maximising your broadband performance. An Ethernet cable that links your device and modem provides a stronger connection if it’s not possible to work in the same room as your modem. There are many Ethernet cables on the market, your internet provider will be able to provide you with assistance on options best available to you. 

4. Are your devices up to date? 

Running older devices can affect the performance of your whole Wi-Fi network at home. It can slow down to support the slowest, oldest device. Make sure all your devices have the latest software updates to reduce this problem. If you’re having problems with your Wi-Fi performance suddenly check what devices are on the network and whether any are not updated or are outdated. 

5. Is your Wi-Fi modem up to date?

Wi-Fi technology is improving all the time, so it’s worth replacing your modem every five years to make sure it’s designed to handle the speed of your fibre broadband connection. Ask your internet provider if your current modem or the modem they supplied you with can handle the speeds your fibre connection offers. 

6. Be aware of interference

Interference to a Wi-Fi signal can be caused by a range of factors. Devices that may cause interference include transmitting devices such as neighbouring Wi-Fi networks, cordless phones, baby monitors and Bluetooth devices. What your home walls are made of (concrete, brick, steel framing) and other objects (fish tanks, hot water cylinders) can also affect your Wi-Fi signal. By positioning your modem in a central, clear space at eye level and away from any electrical devices, can improve your coverage. 

7. Set up a dedicated workspace

It’s important to have a functional workspace, an ergonomic set-up is best practice. However, try and at least have a dedicated space where there aren’t distractions and do your best to have the same set-up at home as you would in the office. 

8. Keep a routine

Wake up as the same time every day as you would normally, shower and get dressed for the day and start and finish work at your usual hours. This will help maintain structure and increase your likelihood of working from home successfully. 

9. Take regular breaks

Make sure you’re taking the same number of breaks at home as you do in the office, or at the very least take a lunch break each day. Sit down eat some food and take 30 minutes to yourself. Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you don’t get to take a break!

10. Stay connected with your colleagues

Staying connected means, you’re communicating openly with your colleagues, keep the conversations going and attend meetings as you would normally by tuning in via digital channels such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Skype. This means you won’t miss out on any important engagements and you’re still contributing to conversations.  

11. End your day

It can be hard switching off from work if you aren’t actually leaving the office, try your best to end your day by leaving the house to exercise or by spending time with you family. This will remind you it’s time to finish work for the day. 

Check here to see if fibre is available at your place.