Why is your internet slow? Here are the top fixes for faster internet

Slow internet can be a big drag, especially if you're working from home. It can result in poor picture quality, lag and dropped video calls. Although it's annoying to have to take time out of your day to figure out the issue, it may be something you can troubleshoot on your own. It could be as simple as turning your modem on and off again or moving your laptop closer to the router.

Before going rogue and canceling your internet plan altogether, we've laid out some reasons why your internet may be running slower than usual and tips to try and get your internet back up to speed.

Why is my internet so slow?

While frustrating, your internet might be slow for simple reasons, like a poor Wi-Fi connection. It may also run slowly if your equipment is outdated or incompatible. Slow internet is often caused by network congestion and internet throttling. You may also need to upgrade your internet plan to increase your download and upload speeds.

Factors that affect slow internet

Here are some common factors that impact internet speed:

• Internet plan: If you're experiencing frequent lag and buffering, it might be because your internet plan is too slow. Consider upgrading your internet package.
• Device connection: Devices connected to your modem with an Ethernet cable will get faster speeds than those using Wi-Fi.
• Wi-Fi connection: The closer you are to your router, the better your Wi-Fi signal will be. If your router is in a closet or basement, it may impact the signal. It's best to keep your router in a central location in your home.
• Online activities: If you have multiple devices streaming at the same time, it can impact your Wi-Fi speed. Disconnect any wireless devices you aren't using.
• Provider congestion: When more people are online (evenings, weekends, holidays), ISPs use speed throttling to manage overcrowded networks.   
• Old equipment: If your modem or router is old, it'll impact your internet speed. And if your computer has a virus, that can also slow your internet speed.
• Internet connection type: Certain internet connection types slow down more often than others.
  • Cable, 5G, fixed wireless and satellite internet are shared connections, so network traffic affects everyone’s speeds. 
  • Fixed wireless and 5G internet connections are faster when you are closer to the nearest cell tower.

How to increase your internet speed

It's a good idea to run a speed test to determine why your internet is slow. Many speed tests are available online.

After that, try the following methods to get your internet speed back to normal.

• Move your laptop or other device closer to your router.
• Disconnect wireless devices you aren't using. Congestion can affect speed.
• Contact your provider. Your ISP will troubleshoot your device and inform you if it needs to be upgraded or if there's an outage in your area.

8 steps to make your internet faster

1. Restart your equipment. Turn off your modem or router for a few minutes to clear the data, install updates and improve speed.
2. Move your equipment. For fiber, cable and DSL internet, your modem or router needs to be in a central location. For fixed wireless or 5G, it's best to put your gateway by a window. Don't put your modem in a location with walls and other barriers, like a closet or basement.
3. Change your Wi-Fi password. Make sure you update your Wi-Fi password periodically, especially if you live in a building with other units.
4. Plug your device into the modem. Using an Ethernet cable can result in faster internet speeds.
5. Update router firmware. Just like your phone or laptop, routers sometimes need software updates. Log in to your router settings through a web browser or its app.
6. Add a Wi-Fi booster or extender. Wi-Fi boosters, or extenders, amplify your router’s signal. This can improve speed in parts of your home with poor coverage.
7. Change your internet plan. If you are frequently experiencing slow speeds, you may just need a faster plan.
8. Change your internet provider. Consider switching to fiber or cable internet for faster speeds than DSL, satellite or fixed wireless connections.

Contributing: Lisa Iscrupe and Hannah Whatley, Allconnect