moved my asus gaming router next to my pc and now my wifi is worse. can a pc mess with the signal?

Yeah, this is a classic placement mistake. Your PC, especially if it's a gaming rig with metal, motors, and peripherals, is a major source of interference.

The RT-AX86U's manual is very specific about this. You need to keep it away from:

• 2.4GHz computer peripherals (like wireless mice/keyboards).
• Bluetooth devices.
• Transformers and heavy-duty motors (think PC fans and pumps).
• Metal obstructions (like your PC case).

Putting the router right next to all that is asking for a weak, unstable signal.

Fix: Move the router. Get it at least 3-6 feet away from your PC, monitor, and any large speakers. Place it in a more open, centralized location. Also, orient those three antennas at 90-degree angles from each other for the best coverage.

Heads up: Other big offenders are microwaves, cordless phones, and fluorescent lights. Give your router some breathing room.