Is your home internet feeling sluggish?
If you’re dealing with slow speeds, frequent disconnections, lagging streams, and slow downloads, the issue might not always lie with your internet service provider (ISP). While it’s true that the routers provided by ISPs can be basic and may struggle to keep up with modern demands, there are still several ways to boost your connection speed.
Also: Struggling with Wi-Fi issues? Here’s how to set up a wired network without using an Ethernet cable.
Below are some common causes of slow internet and practical solutions you can implement today.
1. Evaluate Your Bandwidth
When slow speeds are a constant issue, your bandwidth should be the first thing to check.
Ensure you’re subscribed to a plan that meets the needs of your household, especially considering the number of devices and the bandwidth demand of modern applications. For reference, ZDNET’s Steven J. Vaughan-Nichols suggests a minimum of 30Mbps for smooth performance.
Also: Why you don’t need to keep paying for antivirus software.
Fiber-optic connections typically offer the best speeds, but if fiber isn’t available in your area, you can sometimes push your ISP to prioritize your location for installation if enough people in your area express interest.
If multiple devices and streaming services are in use at once, you’ll need more bandwidth. Keep in mind that ISPs may throttle your connection if you exceed certain limits, especially with basic plans. If this is the case, contact your provider. You might want to consider upgrading your plan or even switching to a different ISP if you’re not getting a fair deal.
2. Test Your Internet Speed
If you’re already on a high-speed plan but your internet is still slow, you should test your connection to see if you’re getting the speeds you’re paying for. For example, if you’re on a plan that offers up to 30Mbps but your actual speed is only 2-3Mbps, something might be wrong on your ISP’s end.
To check your speeds, try these free tools:
- Ookla Speedtest
- Fast.com
- Xfinity Speed Test
- Which? Broadband Checker
If you’re noticing problems, it’s worth contacting your ISP to see if there are any outages or issues in your area. You can also search for “outage” alongside your ISP’s name online for live updates.
You may also want to check with neighbors to see if they’re experiencing similar issues. In one case, a whole neighborhood was knocked offline when a maintenance worker accidentally severed the main fiber cable. If that’s the case for you, get in touch with your ISP immediately.
Additionally, flickering lights on your router may indicate issues with external connections or cables. In this case, a technician may need to inspect the situation.
Sometimes, slow speeds can be due to problems with specific websites or content delivery networks (CDNs), as happened when Fastly caused widespread outages in June 2021. If you’re having trouble with only one website or service, use tools like “Down for Everyone or Just Me” to verify if it’s a problem with the website itself.
3. Restart Your Router
Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve slow internet speeds. Unplugging your router for about 10 seconds and plugging it back in can help resolve connection issues, lag, and slowdowns.
Just like with a computer, routers occasionally need a restart to refresh their system.
Note: Rebooting is different from resetting your router. A reset will restore the device to its factory settings, erasing all personalized configurations. If you’re experiencing issues due to changes you’ve made, a reset could help, but make sure you back up your settings first. To reboot, simply turn the router off and on. To reset, use the small reset button (often requiring a paperclip) to restore it to default settings.
If you have multiple routers in your network, try turning them off separately to identify any specific issues.
4. Optimize Your Router’s Placement
Your router’s location plays a significant role in connection quality. If you’re using a traditional router, the farther away your device is from the router, the more likely you are to experience slower speeds or connection drops.
Try moving your router to a more central location, or consider using a Wi-Fi extender to improve signal strength. Keep in mind that obstacles like walls, furniture, or other devices can interfere with signals, so try to keep the area around your router as clear as possible.
5. Upgrade to a Mesh Network for Better Coverage
If you live in a larger home or have many devices, a single router might not be enough to provide reliable coverage. In this case, a mesh network could be a better solution. Mesh networks consist of a main hub and additional nodes that you can place around your home, allowing devices to connect to the nearest node for stronger and more stable connections.
Mesh networks are particularly useful for larger properties, but keep in mind that they may offer slightly lower speeds compared to traditional routers. However, they excel in handling multiple simultaneous connections.
Also: The differences between mesh networks and traditional routers for home offices.
If you need high-speed connections for tasks like streaming, gaming, or intensive work, upgrading your router (instead of using a mesh network) may be the best investment for top performance.
Finally, remember that an old router can be the cause of slow speeds. If you’re still using a router provided by your ISP from several years ago, it’s worth asking for a replacement to improve your connection.
By addressing these potential issues, you’ll be able to enjoy faster and more reliable internet at home in no time!