Where to Place Fios Router Inside Metal Cabinet

Locate Near the Center

Ideally, you’ll want to place the router near the center of the cabinet, away from the sides, top, and back. This allows the WiFi and cellular signals to radiate outward unobstructed to all areas of your home. Avoid putting it right up against the metal sides which can block signals.

Raise It Up

Elevate the router off the bottom of the cabinet by placing it on something non-metallic. This gets it away from the metal surface which can reflect signals. You can use a small plastic shelf, block of wood, or other non-conductive riser to lift it. Allow at least 2 inches of clearance underneath.

Angle it Outwards

Angle the front or back of the router towards the cabinet door opening. Pointing it straight out allows more signals to travel outside rather than bouncing around inside the enclosed metal box. Some minor repositioning can find the optimal direction.

Add External Antennas

Use external high-gain WiFi antennas that attach to the router’s ports to boost the wireless range. Quality detachable antennas radiate signals better than the standard short antennas. Mount them to point outward through the cabinet door opening.

Use Antenna Port Extenders

If needed, attach antenna port extension cables to move the router antennas closer to the doors. This brings the WiFi broadcast points nearer to outside of the enclosure. Make sure the cables are properly rated for router frequencies.

Leave Doors Ajar

Leave cabinet doors open partially to allow clearer passage for wireless signals into the room. A small gap of just an inch or two allows far more WiFi transmission than when closed. Optionally install ventilation fans to allow air flow.

Add Ventilation Holes

Drilling openings on the top, sides or back provides ventilation and also enables some WiFi signals to pass through. Holes around the size of a U.S. quarter work well. Space them evenly for best results.

Use Wireless Access Point Mode

Configure the router settings to enable Access Point mode. This converts the Fios router to act solely as a WiFi broadcaster and helps prevent any interference issues. Connect it via ethernet cable to your main network router.

Install External Antenna

Mount a high-gain external antenna outside the cabinet to maximize your wireless range. Connect it via an extension cable kit to ports on the back of the Fios router. Amplify the interior and exterior antenna signal strength.

Switch Routers

Substitute a router model made to work inside enclosures such as a commercial metal cabinet access point. These are designed for metal environments. Though more expensive, they maintain strong wireless coverage inside a completely closed metal cabinet.

With a bit of tweaking, your Fios router can be successfully installed inside a metal cabinet to provide WiFi throughout your home. following these tips on optimal placement, ventilation, antennas and settings will allow it to work at peak performance. Be sure to test the signal coverage across your living space and make any needed adjustments. Then enjoy having your router hidden securely away while still broadcasting a strong and reliable wireless network.

Frequently Asked Questions About Placing Fios Router in Metal Cabinet

Here are some common questions about installing a Fios router inside a metal cabinet:

Should I place my Fios router in a metal cabinet?

It’s possible, but not always ideal. The metal can block WiFi signals resulting in dead zones. With adjustments like opening doors, adding antennas, and proper placement, the router can work successfully. But performance may not be as strong as positioning it out in the open.

Does the router need ventilation inside the cabinet?

Yes, allow adequate air flow inside so the router doesn’t overheat. Leave doors partially open or add ventilation holes. Make sure vents aren’t blocked by cables or other items.

What type of riser should I use to elevate the router?

Use a non-metallic material like plastic, wood, or foam. Avoid anything conductive that could impact WiFi performance. The riser should raise the router at least 2 inches off the bottom.

Should the router antennas point straight out or angled up?

Pointing them straight out the front/back cabinet door opening provides the most direct WiFi path outside. Angling up may work but could concentrate signals at ceiling level.

How many ventilation holes should I drill and what size?

Adding 8-12 holes about 1 inch in diameter typically works well for air flow and some WiFi passage. Evenly space the holes near the edges and on the cabinet back.

Will any high-gain antennas work with my Fios router?

Consult Verizon’s site for recommended Fios-compatible antennas. Select a set designed for your router’s WiFi bands. Only use antennas approved for your specific router model.

Should I completely close the metal cabinet doors?

Keeping the doors partially open is better to allow proper airflow and WiFi signals to exit. But if needed, some routers can operate with doors fully closed when properly vented.

Can I mount the external antenna outside the house instead of the cabinet?

Yes, placing the antenna on your home’s exterior can maximize signal range. Use an extension kit to reach the antenna ports inside the cabinet. Just securely weatherproof the exterior antenna.

Conclusion

Installing your Fios router inside a metal cabinet is possible with some adjustments. Position it carefully using a riser, keep doors ajar, add ventilation, and utilize high-gain external antennas. Test the WiFi coverage across your space and tweak the placement as needed. With proper setup, your router can successfully broadcast strong wireless internet throughout your home, even from inside a metal enclosure.