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Internet so slow, even an F1 tournament looks like a traffic jam.
Sound familiar?
You are not alone.
While facing slow internet speeds, most users instantly think about cursing the provider, switching the brand, or upgrading to a more premium internet plan.
Spoiler alert! Shifting to a different internet is not the solution. Most speed-related issues are so simple that they can be fixed at home.
You do not have to be tech-savvy.
And no, you don’t need to spend a lot of money or invest in an expensive gadget.
So what do you have to do?
This write-up will help you pinpoint the culprit behind your sluggish internet and hopefully fix it.
Did You Check Your Internet Speed?
Before jumping to conclusions, make sure you run a speed test. Performing a test is an instant way to learn about the performance, speed, and possible bottlenecks of the internet connection.
Here is a one-click test, to help you know the speed.
So what is the speed of your internet?
If it is 25 Mbps or higher, rest assured as it’s considered a decent speed. However, if your internet speed falls short even by a few digits, it is your cue to run a diagnostic test to resolve the issue.
Here is a cheat sheet to learn about internet speeds!
Now that you have the speed test results and know about the optimal speed, it’s time to reevaluate your package, device, and internet service provider’s (ISP) specification as well.
This blueprint will help you understand your internet connection to set your expectations.
First things first, get your paper ready and start comparing.
Learn about your internet plan. Explore the data cap, download speed, upload speed, and connection type. | |
Run speed test across multiple devices both wired and wireless. | |
Take your device to different locations i.e. kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, living room, etc., to detect a dead signal zone and speed difference. | |
Check speed at different times to detect the peak or rush hour. | |
Now gather all the speed test data and compare it to the advertised speed mentioned in your internet plan. |
The average speed will help you set a baseline for comparison.
What Is Causing Your Internet To Slow Down?
A slump in the internet speeds can be due to multiple reasons, a damaged wire, an old router, or maybe too many connected devices.
Use this checklist diagnostic test to identify the issue:
Speed Diagnosis Checklist
Before you prepare for the test, make sure your internet is connected via an Ethernet cable. Although this test can be run on any device (wired or wireless), a laptop is preferred.
So, let's start the test.
You Have Multiple Connected Devices
A Wi-Fi router can support somewhere between 10-40 devices simultaneously. However, with every connected device, the bandwidth will divide and speed will take a hit. Therefore, check the number of devices connected to your router. If the connected devices are more than four, disconnect all other devices and check the speed again.
Is it better?
If yes, you can leave it here.
However, if connected devices are less but speed is still slow, jump to the next part.
You Have Multiple Tabs and Apps Running in the Background
Multiple open tabs, background apps, or auto-updates can suck the speed out of your internet. The device console sometimes downloads updates and files automatically. This can use a lot of data and you can experience the slow speed. Therefore, close all the tabs and clear the cache.
Do you feel the difference now?
It’s okay if the speed is still not better, you can move to the next step.
You Have an Old Router or Modem
Like any other technology, router and modem technology is evolving with time. Older modems and routers are not just getting outdated but also slower. Check the make and model of your modem. If it’s older and there is already a newer version of the same modem, then it might be the culprit. Try updating the modem and look for the change in speed.
Have you noticed any significant speed boost?
If your answer is no, let us move to the next one.
You Have a Damaged Cable
An obvious reason behind your slow or patchy internet can be damaged cable. As a pet owner with a clumsy personality, I can relate to this issue on a personal level. In most cases, loose wire gets a tug and the clip in Ethernet is damaged. If you have a pet, get ready for some chewing action as well.
Detecting the damaged cable is slightly tricky. You need to track the cable pathway and check router clips, lost wiring, and other issues. Once you replace the cable, don’t forget to see if the speed has improved.
Is your cable fine?
If yes, let’s take a look at the next issue.
Your ISP Is Snubbing Data
A rare occurrence but sometimes, a backend issue by the ISP might cause slow speed of the internet. This doesn’t mean your ISP is doing it intentionally, but you might have reached your data cap on your connection.
In this case, once you hit the limit, the ISP throttles the speed. Of course, the only option is to upgrade your data package.
Call (855) 771-3154 to Find an Unlimited Internet Package
In case, you are already on an unlimited data package, you can move to the next challenge.
You are Using the Internet During Peak Time
Just like traffic peak time, internet rush hour is a thing. I know in this day and age, this can be frustrating because an average US household has 8 devices.
The rush hour occurs when multiple users are consuming the bandwidth. Usually, the effect is more drastic when all the devices are within your home, active and working simultaneously.
However, it is a factor that can’t be controlled. So, it is advised to disconnect the other device and run the test again.
If you have reached this point, chances are you are a bit frustrated.
Don’t lose hope, there is another reason your internet could be sluggish.
Your Device is Incompatible
Are you using the internet on your phone? Well, your phone might be the issue. Let me explain this. Internet connection or router does not always cause slow internet, sometimes your device might be the culprit.
An easy way to detect this issue is by running a speed test on multiple devices. Just a heads-up! Speed on wireless devices is generally slower compared to wired devices. A simple trick is to troubleshoot the issue with the device and connect again.
We hope you have diagnosed the issue by now.
So, let’s tackle that slow internet with easy solutions!
How to Fix Your Slow Internet Speed?
First, we'll try some easy fixes.
Level 1: Beginner Tips
Mission 1: Reboot
When your internet connection is lagging, a simple reboot can pull you out of your misery. Restarting your router can help you clear your cache and you will see an instant boost in speed.
Mission 2: Router Relocation
Find a sweet spot to place your router, away from the TV preferably, in the middle of the house. Moving the router helps with the even distribution of the signals and kills no signal zone.
Mission 3: Interference Buster
Thick walls, furniture, microwaves, TVs, cordless phones, nanny cams, and other appliances can weaken signals. Give your internet signals a boost by keeping the router away from these things.
Level 2: Intermediate Troubleshooting
Welcome to the next level. Slightly technical but we know you can do it.
Let's look at some intermediate troubleshooting techniques.
Mission 4: Hunt Down Hogs
Check your router setting and determine the device using maximum data.
Use this route to hunt down the data-hogging devices:
Mission 5: Ethernet Boost
You know by now that wired devices experience better speed, stable connection, and seamless connectivity. So, switch the devices hogging all the bandwidth from Wi-Fi to Ethernet.
Mission 6: Device Detox
Most people know the number of connected devices reduces speed but very few people realize devices on standby also consume bandwidth. You can use your router to disconnect or block the devices when not in use.
Follow this blueprint to commit to a device detox.
Mission 7: Network Divide
For priority tasks, you can set a different network. Dividing your network will ensure your work devices get priority and you can enjoy fast speed without any interference.
Here is how you can divide the network:
Level 3: Seek Expert Advice
We see you have become quite the expert. However, there's only so much a user can do. Sometimes, you have to call the big guns, so we suggest you seek the help of your ISP if nothing works out.
Mission 8: Ring Your ISP
If you've tried everything mentioned above, it is time to ring up your internet provider. Your ISP will help you address any package, location, or outage-related issue. Moreover, complaining about speed will help them address the issue and resolve it professionally.
Mission 9: Update Equipment
In case the issue persists, maybe it is time to switch the router. Switching to the latest technology like Wi-Fi 6, 6e, and 7 can help as they offer enhanced speed even when connected with multiple devices simultaneously.
Mission 10: Upgrade Plan
If all else fails, it’s time to consider upgrading your plan. Sometimes internet requirements are not compatible with the subscribed internet plan, so ask your ISP and upgrade your plan right away.
Mission Accomplished!
We hope your internet connection is running smoothly now.
However, if nothing goes your way, rest assured that you always have an option to switch your internet service provider.
Call (844) 343-1127 to Know About the Best ISP in Your Area
FAQ’s
How do I fix a weak internet signal?
Focus on moving the router to a central location where signal interference can be minimized. If the house is too big with multiple dead signal zones, invest in a Wi-Fi extender.
Why is the internet so slow today in my area?
There are multiple reasons your high-speed internet is not working properly. Bad Wi-Fi, signal interference, network congestion, or hardware issues, there are so many different reasons. In some cases, the ISP might throttle the speed after your internet plan is exhausted. It is better to contact the customer service for assistance.
What is a good internet speed?
100Mbps is considered a good download speed, whereas an acceptable upload speed is at least 10 Mbps.
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