Connections for August 2023

Cornerstone Group © 2023 Dispelling Myths About Home Wi-Fi Networks Given how much technology changes over time, it’s not surprising that what was once true no longer applies, or that people get confused by technical jargon. To clear things up, we’re setting the record straight on a few Wi-Fi myths. Myth: If several people in our home are downloading, then our Wi-Fi will slow to a crawl. Older Wi-Fi technology couldn’t cope with multiple devices downloading, gaming, or streaming at the same time. However, today’s routers and access points are designed to help mitigate this. While the available bandwidth can only be divided up so many times before the effects of everyone “taking a slice” will be felt, a modern router has ways to distribute said bandwidth more equally and fairly. They include multiple antennas and band steering (where the router steers your device to the best, most suitable frequency/band). Myth: 5GHz is always better than 2.4GHz. Which band is better depends on your Wi-Fi needs. If you want better range, use 2.4 GHz. If you need higher performance or speed, use the 5GHz band. The 5GHz band, which is the newer of the two, has the potential to cut through network clutter and interference to maximize network performance, which means 5GHz will be better for things like reducing game lag. Myth: My device won’t connect to Wi-Fi, so there must be a problem with my internet. While there are scenarios where this might be the case, such as a neighborhood-wide internet outage, there are other potential connection issues. For example, if you have a device that won’t connect to Wi-Fi, start by focusing your efforts on that device. The solution could be as simple as turning the device off and back on. You can also reset your device’s network’s settings or have the device “forget” your Wi-Fi and reconnect a few seconds later. Panora Fiber offers Managed Wi-Fi to help with setting up and maintaining your home Wi-Fi network. To learn more and sign up for service, call 641.755.2424 in Panora or 641.332.2000 in Guthrie Center. 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Offers Hope Too many people experience suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress without the support and care they need. However, help is readily available. By calling or texting 988, a person can connect directly with a mental health professional via the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a national network of more than 200 crisis centers, staffed 24/7 to provide confidential assistance. These centers are supported by local and state sources as well as the Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Veterans can press “1” after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.

RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTMzNDE=