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Viral 'Coin on the Router' Hack Debunked by Network Experts

Technicians warn the trick can overheat routers.

Overview

  • The coin tip, which drew fresh coverage Thursday, was dismissed by network engineers as a claim with no scientific support.
  • A coin is too small relative to 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi‑Fi wavelengths to act as an antenna or shape the signal in a useful way.
  • Placing metal on the chassis can block cooling vents, raising temperatures that slow performance and shorten a router's life.
  • Metal near the antennas can reflect radio waves, creating interference and dead zones that make coverage less stable.
  • Specialists recommend proven steps instead, such as moving the router to a central high spot, using 5 GHz, adding repeaters or a mesh kit, and updating firmware.