Wi-Fi add-ons are equipment and services designed to improve a home network’s coverage, control and security. Depending on a household’s needs, add-ons can help eliminate weak-signal areas, manage children’s internet access, monitor connected devices and block certain online threats.
FTC Internet customers can customize their service with Premium Wi-Fi features that provide expanded coverage, enhanced parental controls and network-level security.
Connectivity Add-Ons for Wi-Fi
A traditional home Wi-Fi network often relies on a single router or gateway. Several factors can affect an internet connection, including distance from the router, walls and other obstructions, interference from nearby electronics and the number of connected devices.
It is important to determine whether a connection problem involves internet speed or Wi-Fi coverage. Upgrading to a faster internet plan may help when a household does not have enough bandwidth for its online activities, but a faster plan alone will not eliminate a Wi-Fi dead zone. Homes with weak signals in certain rooms may benefit from strategically placed mesh access points.
Wi-Fi extenders and mesh systems both expand coverage, but they work differently. An extender typically repeats the signal from a router and may create a separate network name or require a device to reconnect as it moves through the home. A mesh Wi-Fi system uses coordinated access points to create a more unified home network.
FTC’s Premium Wi-Fi combines a centrally located gateway with additional mesh access points when needed. Technologies such as node steering and band steering help connect compatible devices to a nearby access point and an appropriate Wi-Fi frequency. This can provide more consistent coverage as users move from room to room.
Parental Control Wi-Fi Add-Ons
Parents must decide how much screen time is appropriate for their children while also helping them avoid inappropriate online content. Router settings and third-party applications can provide some controls, but they may require parents to manage several different systems.
ExperienceIQ gives eligible FTC Internet customers enhanced parental controls through the FTC Internet App.
ExperienceIQ can help parents:
- Create profiles for individual household members
- Filter selected content, applications and websites
- Establish screen-time limits
- Pause internet access when needed
- Monitor online usage
- Set priorities for important activities or devices
Because the controls operate through the home network, they can apply to compatible Wi-Fi-connected devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, gaming systems and smart TVs. Devices using cellular data or another internet connection may not be covered by the home Wi-Fi settings.
Wi-Fi Network Security Add-Ons
A home network can connect everything from computers and smartphones to cameras, televisions, thermostats and other smart devices. Every connected device represents another potential point of entry for an online threat, making network security an important part of a modern connected home.
ProtectIQ adds network-level security features to an eligible FTC Premium Wi-Fi system. It is designed to monitor network traffic, block known threats and alert users when suspicious activity is detected.
ProtectIQ can provide:
- Protection for devices connected to the home network
- Scanning for known viruses and other malicious activity
- Intrusion-prevention features
- Blocking of known phishing, spyware, adware and malware websites
- Security notifications through the FTC Internet App
ProtectIQ adds an important layer of network protection, but no security tool can stop every threat. Customers should continue using strong, unique passwords, installing device and software updates and avoiding suspicious links or attachments.
Wi-Fi Management and Support
Premium Wi-Fi is a managed service rather than simply another piece of equipment. FTC helps install and optimize the system and provides 24/7 support for the managed Wi-Fi experience.
The FTC Internet App also gives customers a convenient way to manage their networks. Depending on the subscribed services, users can:
- View connected devices
- Create a guest Wi-Fi network
- Change the Wi-Fi network name and password
- Pause internet access
- Review network usage and alerts
- Manage individual people and devices
- Run an internet speed test
Even a fast internet plan can feel slow if Wi-Fi coverage does not reach the places where connected devices are being used. A properly designed mesh system can improve coverage, while parental-control and security add-ons can give households more control over how their connections are used.
Families looking for broader Wi-Fi coverage, easier parental oversight and stronger network protection can visit the FTC Premium Wi-Fi page, call 888-218-5050 or stop by an FTC store location to learn more.
