Hot weather can disrupt your broadband connection, but simple adjustments can keep you online. Andy Pickett, chief technology officer at Connection Technologies, explains that modern network equipment operates within specific temperature ranges, and prolonged extreme heat strains infrastructure. During heatwaves, internet and mobile signals may become less reliable, especially for remote workers.
Impact on Remote Workers
Pickett notes that the biggest impact is on video calls and large file transfers. Users may experience slower speeds, lagging, frozen meetings, or intermittent disconnections. These issues are most noticeable during the hottest parts of the day, typically mid-afternoon to early evening, or during intense thunderstorms when network infrastructure is under additional pressure.
Practical Steps to Improve Connection
To address problems, restart your router, particularly after storms. Ensure the router is well ventilated and not in direct sunlight, as overheating affects performance. For remote workers, having a mobile hotspot as a backup provides resilience if the primary broadband becomes unstable.
Provider and Infrastructure Factors
Pickett states that the quality of local infrastructure is more important than the provider's brand. Areas with newer full-fibre networks are generally more resilient than older copper-based infrastructure. Mobile performance depends on the location, capacity, and resilience of nearby masts.
Growing Concern for Network Resilience
As the UK faces more frequent extreme weather, network resilience becomes crucial. Pickett urges both providers and consumers to prepare for weather-related disruption, as reliable connectivity is essential for remote workers and businesses.
