Router in a Cabinet, Behind the TV or on a Shelf — Where Should It Go?

There is no single perfect position for every home, but some locations are usually worth avoiding.

The basic rule: as central and open as practical

If one router is expected to cover the whole home, start with a position that is reasonably central to the rooms that matter. Keep as much open space around it as practical.

Router inside a cabinet?

Usually a poor choice. A closed cabinet adds obstacles and can also restrict ventilation. If the router must be hidden for aesthetic reasons, check whether that position reduces coverage in important rooms.

Router behind the TV?

Not ideal either. The TV, wall and furniture can make the radio environment less favourable. If the router has to be near the TV, consider placing it beside or above the screen rather than completely behind it.

Router on a shelf?

Often a better option. A higher, open position can be preferable to the floor or a closed cabinet. But the overall floor plan still matters most.

What about the provider's connection point?

This is a common problem: the place where the ISP brings the internet into your home is not necessarily the best radio position. If you are building or renovating, consider running Ethernet to a location that divides the home more effectively.

Perfect WiFi lets you work from the floor plan and compare router positions instead of choosing solely based on where the internet socket happens to be.

The best router position is not always the exact centre of the home. It is the position that best covers the important areas while accounting for walls and distance.

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