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# Does the use of devices such as power bars and surge protectors interfere with my wifi?

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# Power bars and surge protectors are an excellent way to safeguard your electronics, but are there any drawbacks?

*While power bars and surge protectors are excellent for safeguarding your electronics, they can sometimes cause issues for sensitive networking equipment like your modem and router. Here’s why.*

### Electromagnetic interference

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/1/3/1/4/1314c655f8c71a00/9490e3b8-5b22-4e7b-baae-e66069_54uwhq.png =518xauto)

###### Let's discuss about electromagnetic interference!

Electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference (**EMI**) is unwanted noise or interference delivered into an electrical route or circuit by an outside source. EMI can cause devices to underperform, malfunction, or fail entirely.
### What impact does electromagnetic interference have on your network?

Wi-Fi uses a **radio frequency** comparable to AM/FM radio to wirelessly **transmit data across long distances**. Due to all of the shared frequencies, it is difficult for the router to broadcast a strong signal when devices are in the same region and use the same frequencies.


###### What exactly is the connection between these devices and electromagnetic interference?

**Electromagnetic interference may be generated by any power supply, including smart plugs, power bars, outlet splitters, and surge protectors and extension cords.** These devices can produce an electrical noise that can cause the modem to **operate poorly, malfunction, or completely fail.**


### Lifespan

Many people are not aware of this. The metal that disperse excess heat begins to deteriorate after a few years, which causes the **devices like surge protector and power bars to lose their efficiency**.


||| ****These adapters have a lifespan of three to five years.****

* Due to the deterioration of the adapters, these products may produce too much **electrical noise as a result of surges or reductions** in power.

| Devices such as power bars, surge protectors, power bars, smart plugs and extension cables should be replaced every few years because the materials could degrade over time.

* Please also note that ****inconsistent power delivery**** in ****defective power bars, surge protectors, power bars, wall splitters, and even defective wall sockets**** can create issues for sensitive networking equipment such as modems and routers.

If you have any questions, issues, or concerns, please contact our [__Customer Care team__](https://support.express.cogeco.ca); we are always happy to help.