Slow internet speed and WiFi signal strength do not always go hand in hand. You might have all 4 WiFi signals in the best shape ever, but your internet may still be acting up. If you’re also experiencing this issue, this blog has just the right solutions for you.

Why Your Internet is Slow with a Good WiFi Signal

Your internet may be slow despite having a good WiFi signal for the following reasons:

1. Bandwidth Congestion

Your internet may be performing slow because a lot of devices are connected at the same time. This results in bandwidth congestion when multiple users and devices divide the capacity of your internet connection. So, your WiFi signal is in good condition, but your internet cannot perform well because of an overload.

Solution: Disconnect all extra devices to focus on active users/devices for best results.

Learn more about how many devices your internet can handle with our guide.

2. Throttling

Throttling happens when your internet service provider intentionally slows down your internet speed to manage data usage. This usually happens when you cross a soft data cap, and your ISP deprioritizes your connection over users who still have priority data available.

Solution: Check for your data usage on your ISP’s app or your device’s network settings.

3. Virus or Malware Attack

Digital threats like viruses or malware attack your devices and compromise your internet bandwidth without your knowledge. So even when you connect limited devices, your internet bandwidth may be affected due to an unknown harmful virus using up your WiFi speed. Make sure you have a strong antivirus or antimalware suite to prevent any such damage.

Solution: Log in to your router and check connected devices, and look for unknown device names and disconnect them immediately.

4. Incompatible Internet Speed

If your internet consistently feels underperforming, the issue may be with the speed tier you’ve chosen with your internet plan. This means your internet speed requirement may be higher than the speed you have subscribed to.

Solution: You should first take a speed test to check what speed you’re getting, then calculate your speed requirement, and upgrade to a higher internet plan.

5. Too Many Background Apps

Having too many background apps may slow down your internet speed by using up your internet bandwidth to download updates. This slows the speed for other online activities while your WiFi signal is in perfect condition.

Solution: Simply turn off all extra apps so your internet only focuses on active apps.

6. Bad Router Placement

Your WiFi may be experiencing interference from objects or walls, resulting in slower WiFi speeds. This may not be an issue with the internet speed or your WiFi, but just an unoptimized WiFi router positioning.

Solution: Position your router at the center of your home, away from obstructions, so signals can consistently reach all rooms and corners.

How To Troubleshoot Your Internet

Here’s a quick checklist to help you troubleshoot your internet connection:

  • Restart your router
  • Check the health and condition of all wires/cables
  • Connect your device to an Ethernet to check the connection
  • Choose ‘Forget WiFi password’ and re-enter your password to connect
  • Check for an outage update from your ISP
  • Run your device’s built-in network troubleshooter

Also Read: Why Does My Internet Keep Disconnecting?

The Sum Up

Your internet speed may feel slower than usual, even when your WiFi signals appear to be full. The following factors impact the speed of your internet connection:

  • Bandwidth congestion
  • Throttling speeds from your ISP
  • Digital attacks like viruses or malware
  • Incompatible internet speed
  • Unwanted background apps
  • Poor router placement

Make sure to try our solutions to fix slow internet at home. If you still don’t get the results you expect, chances are you need to upgrade your internet service.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the internet during a power outage?

You can use the internet during a power outage by switching to a mobile hotspot or a backup internet service for emergencies.

When should I upgrade my internet service?

You should upgrade your internet service if you feel that you are not getting the speeds you were promised, if your speed is not compatible with your online activities, or if you experience these 7 signs that you need to switch your connection.

Should I upgrade my WiFi if my internet speed is slow?

Before you upgrade your WiFi, make sure your internet connection is in good health by taking a speed test. If your internet speed is compromised, then you need to upgrade your internet plan, not your WiFi equipment.