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Telecom watchdog company Ofcom calls your Internet connection "the fourth essential service," along with basic utilities like gas, electric and water.
Almost any electronic signal can slow down your WI-FI signal and hundreds or thousands of Christmas lights are a likely culprit.
The Guardian writes, "It's all to do with electromagnetic radiation. Everything from light to microwave ovens and deep-space radios use electromagnetic waves either to carry information or to impart energy."
WI-FI uses similar electromagnetic waves to shoot information to and from your router and your smart phone, tablet, laptop or home computer. The company says the interference caused by the lights and other household items can be overcome if you know how.
Ofcom developed an app allowing homeowners to check the strength of your Internet signal and follow it up with tips to help improve the connection. One of the best is new routers with the ability to find spots with heavy interference, then ups the signal strength in that area to combat the effects.
The simplest tip remains the same your IT guy at work sticks with: Reboot your equipment.
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