Reduce wireless interference

This article will help you reduce wireless interference around your Sonos products. Reducing wireless interference can help with issues like audio dropouts or products disappearing from the app.

Wireless interference can occur when two or more wireless devices compete for the same Wi-Fi space. If this overlap is causing performance issues, it can be quickly resolved by changing your network’s wireless channel or by moving Sonos away from the source of the interference.


Change the wireless channel

You can reduce wireless interference by changing the wireless channel used by your Sonos system, your router, or both.

If you’re changing both the router’s wireless channel and the Sonos wireless channel, make sure Sonos is not set to the same channel as the router since this can add to wireless interference.

We recommend testing your router or your Sonos system on wireless channels 1, 6, and 11. Try playing music on Sonos after you’ve switched channels to see if performance has improved.


Move Sonos away from other devices causing wireless interference

Other devices and electronics can use the same wireless frequencies as your router and your Sonos system. If you have one or more of these devices nearby and you’re experiencing issues with your Sonos system, turn the device off temporarily and check if the problem has been resolved. If so, consider moving the device further away from the Sonos products. In general, we recommend positioning Sonos products at least 18” (0.5m) away from any other electronic devices.

Devices that commonly use 2.4GHz or 5GHz wireless

  • Cordless or DECT phones
  • Wireless video transmitters or security cameras
  • WiFi routers, WiFi extenders, and access points
  • Wireless audio systems
  • Baby monitors
  • Wireless cable and set-top boxes
  • Smart home device hubs


Other devices that can cause interference

  • Some external monitors and LCD displays
  • Microwave ovens (when in use)


Check for obstructions that can reduce the wireless signal

Certain wall and surface materials can absorb wireless signals and cause signal loss, resulting in undesirable behavior. Be mindful of the following physical barriers when setting up your Sonos products and other wireless devices, such as your router, and reposition them if necessary.

Brick walls, for example, may hinder a wireless signal more than wooden walls. Additionally, a Sonos product placed on a metal surface may experience more wireless problems than a Sonos product placed on a wooden surface.


Type of Material

Interference Potential

Wood

Low

Synthetic material

Low

Glass

Low

Water

Medium

Brick

Medium

Marble

Medium

Plaster

High

Concrete

High

Metal

Very High

Still need help?

Our technicians can help over the phone or with a live chat. You can also ask questions and find answers with other Sonos owners in our Sonos Community.