How to be your own tech support

High-speed WiFi networks and smart home devices make our lives easier by providing entertainment, security and automation. But all this technology can make life more complicated—so much so that someone may feel like they need an IT professional on call to help.

Fortunately, Bob Villa’s collection of guides and how-to articles will show you how to become the master of your home technology. We’ll walk you through everything from hooking up your 60-inch flat-screen TV to how to improve the speed and range of your home WiFi network. You can also browse our expert reviews of essential tech gadgets so you can choose the best router, streaming device, and DIY home security system for your needs.

Read on to learn how you can be your own tech support whether you’re troubleshooting spotty Wi-Fi or installing a smart home network complete with video cameras, smart lights, and high-tech thermostats.

Home WiFi Basics

Your modem and router act as a network hub that your family can rely on to stream their favorite shows, check account balances, log in to work and school, play games with friends, and perform many other activities that require a WiFi connection. The following buyer’s guides and explanations will help you determine what speed and range router to buy or whether you should add a WiFi extender to enhance your existing network. You’ll also learn where to place the router to cover the far corners of your home, connect devices to the 5 GHz or 2.4 GHz frequencies, and learn how to update the firmware to keep it running smoothly.

For more on managing your home WiFi:
➤ Modem vs. Router: What’s the difference?
➤ The best WiFi routers
➤ How to boost your WiFi at home
➤ The best WiFi extenders

Recreation essentials

Creating the perfect home entertainment setup for a Netflix binge session, movie night or championship game requires the right TV. Choosing a large flat screen is key to meeting all your viewing needs while maintaining the beauty of the room. Once you find the right one, save money by installing the right mounting kit yourself and following a few key instructions to place it on the wall. You may also want to enhance your viewing experience by investing in a wireless surround sound system. Use the references below to help you buy the right TV for your home, install it safely, and choose the best streaming service that fits your preferences.

For more information on entertainment technology:
➤ What size TV is best?
➤ How to mount a TV on the wall
➤ The best wireless surround-sound systems
➤ The best media streaming tools

Security smarts

Companies like Ring, SimpliSafe, Wyze, Abode and Cove offer budget-priced home security systems that make protecting your property more affordable than ever. These DIY systems feature a peel and stick installation that makes it easy to install wireless devices in less than an hour. And most of them allow you to control the system by voice from a smartphone or through Alexa, Apple HomeKit or Google Home, which makes them easy and convenient to operate. Although a DIY security system is easy to install and use, you still need to know what kind of equipment you need to best protect your home. The guidelines below will help you choose the best security system for your needs and help you decide where to place your cameras to provide the best protection.

For more on supporting home security:
➤ DIY security systems 101
➤ The best DIY security systems
➤ Where and how to install security cameras

Connect everything

Upgrading to smart thermostats, lights, door locks, security cameras, and other devices can quickly become overwhelming, especially if you’re new to smart home tech. To avoid compatibility issues, you’ll need to decide whether you’re Team Alexa, Team Google, or Team Siri before assembling your collection of smart home devices. Also, some devices may require a smart home hub that connects to your home WiFi network. You need to know if your router can handle all these new devices, and you’ll definitely want to take security measures to prevent hackers from taking over. It may sound complicated, but there’s no need to worry. The instructions below will help you set up your smart home so you can enjoy its many benefits.

For more on Smart Home Tech:
➤ A beginner’s guide to home automation
➤ The best smart home systems
➤ 12 major smart home mistakes
➤ 29 best gadgets for smart home

Maintenance issues

If you want it to take care of you, you need to take care of the technology in your home. Dusting electronics, updating firmware, changing batteries, and other routine maintenance are key to making sure your router or streaming service doesn’t go dark in the middle of an intense gaming session or movie-watching marathon. Controlling wires and cables is important to avoid accidents or ruining the beauty of your living room, as well as responsible disposal of old appliances. The tips below will help you skillfully hide those wires, teach you how to protect all the technology in your home, and educate you on proper disposal when it’s time to replace outdated appliances.

For more on home technology care:
➤ Genius ways to hide every wire in your house
➤ 10 Home electronics may never be clean, but you can have them.
➤ Important things you need to know about getting rid of old electronics