Thanks!

> ...which, now that I think about it, is probably a kernel issue alone.
It is. Well, kernel and the non-free firmware.

> Try a more recent kernel from backports before changing out your whole system
I know from the past that this is a reasonable option, though the reason I'm resisting it now is 
because my router - which I would have to connect to by cable - is in the kitchen and that means 
hauling my whole setup to the kitchen floor. Not very convenient, but maybe I should indeed bite 
the bullet and go with the backports.

Janek