The Fibre Checklist for a Stress-Free 2026

It’s 2026, and fast, reliable fibre is one less thing to worry about. Whether you’re working from home, running a small business, or managing a household filled with connected devices, a little preparation now can save you a lot of frustration later.

This simple checklist is a handy guide to make sure your internet is ready for everything the year ahead will demand.

1. Is Your Speed Still Enough?

Your internet needs change, often faster than we realise. From smart TVs and voice assistants to security cameras and home automation, connected devices are only increasing. Each device adds to your network load, even when you’re not actively using it.

The package that worked perfectly for you two years ago may now be under pressure from multiple users, devices, and data-heavy activities.

Ask yourself how many people are usually online at the same time and if video calls, cloud uploads, or online gaming are part of your daily routine? It is also good to know if streaming in high definition or 4K on more than one device is a regular occurrence.

If buffering, lag, or dropped connections are becoming common, it may be time to upgrade your speed. A quick review of your current usage versus your current fibre plan can make a world of difference, especially if your home or business has grown more connected over time.

Remember, you want a plan that can scale with your needs and WiFi can handle multiple connections at once. A future-ready set-up now means fewer upgrades, less stress, and better performance later.

If you are thinking of swopping internet providers, read our quick guide first. 

2. Your Router Matters More Than You Think

Even the fastest fibre line can underperform if your hardware isn’t up to scratch. Routers age, technology evolves, and placement plays a surprisingly big role in performance.

Do a quick audit of your hardware and check that your router is placed centrally, and not hidden in a cupboard or corner. Sometimes, moving the router away from thick walls, metal objects, or appliances can instantly improve performance.

If your router is more than three to four years old, it may not be able to support modern WiFi standards and might need to be upgraded.  A newer router can dramatically improve stability, speed, and range. 

3. Protect Speed and Privacy

An unsecured or poorly managed network doesn’t just put your data at risk. It can also slow your connection down.

Start with the basics. Update your router firmware regularly, and change default passwords. You should also review which devices are connected to your network. You might be surprised how many old phones, smart TVs, or forgotten gadgets are still connected and using bandwidth. 

Cleaning up your network improves both performance and security, giving you extra peace of mind.

4. Test Every Room

Dead spots are one of the most common causes of fibre frustration. Your connection might be fast, but if WiFi doesn’t reach every corner of your space, it won’t feel that way.

Walk through your home or office and test your connection in bedrooms and home offices, living areas and entertainment spaces and outdoor work or entertainment zones.

If some areas struggle, solutions like mesh WiFi extenders, or better router placement can make a huge difference. The goal is to have consistent, reliable coverage wherever you are in the home, and not just speed at the router.

Click here to find out more about testing your Wi-Fi speeds. 

5. Get Support Fast When You Need It

Even with the best set-up, things can go wrong, and when they do, fast, reliable support matters.Having a trusted local provider means help is just an email away, keeping downtime to a minimum and your connection running smoothly.

If you experience issues, don’t wait it out. Log a ticket as soon as possible at [email protected] 

Faircom’s after hours support is available Monday to Friday from 17:00-21:00, and from 09:00-15:00 on weekends and public holidays. 

You can also chat to our team on WhatsApp on 0636519921.

A reliable fibre connection is about confidence, convenience, and control as much as it is about great speed. At Faircom, we believe staying connected should be simple, seamless, and stress-free. A quick checklist today can mean a smoother, faster year ahead.