It’s almost kickoff time.  

Not just for the big Turkey Day football game, fun as it may be. This stretch of the year from Thanksgiving through New Year’s also kicks off a time of visitors, guests and gatherings – which can mean serious demands on your WiFi. 

So how do you get ready for People Time? Here’s a few helpful how-tos from your friends at NextLight:  

• Get a NextLight router: NextLight’s WiFi router is made to cover your entire home, eliminating dead zones so that all your devices – and your guests’ – can enjoy NextLight’s fast, reliable connection.  

• Download and update the NextLight app: This gives you the tools you need to manage your in-home network, including ExperienceIQ, which lets you do great stuff like prioritizing devices and setting parental controls. (You’ll find the app at the App Store or Google Play.) And if you already have the app, remember to update it – it’s got a new design that’s easier to use than ever.  

• Set up a guest network: Once you have the app, it couldn’t be simpler: go to “Network” and then choose “Add Network” in the upper right corner.  Then choose “select type” and “guest,” set up the password and other details, and you’re set to go!  

• Reboot ahead of time: Before people start arriving, unplug your router for 30 seconds and then plug it back in to make sure your connection is refreshed and ready. 

• Avoid any “light” issues: If you’re an early bird when it comes to putting up Christmas decorations, remember that having a lot of holiday lights near a router can sometimes affect the signal. Find an open space for yours that’s away from decorations and other objects that could interfere with reception, such as furniture, metal objects and appliances.  

• Consider a mesh unit: If you have a larger home, a mesh extender can help ensure total coverage for everyone. And like your WiFi, it’s leased month-to-month, so you only have to keep it as long as you need it. 

With that, it’s time to have fun and enjoy the gatherings.  

And if you’re feeling thankful for a good internet connection – well, we don’t blame you.   

(PS: If you *are* feeling thankful, please consider posting a Google review! We love seeing what our NextLight neighbors have to say.)