Do you experience slow internet speeds on a regular basis?
If so, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with this issue, but there are a number of things you can do to speed up your internet.
In this article, we’ll share seven proven tips to help you get the most out of your internet connection.
Table of Contents
How to Speed Up Your Internet
1. Restart your modem and router
One of the simplest things you can do to speed up your internet is to restart your modem and router. This can help to clear any temporary glitches that may be causing performance issues.
To restart your modem and router, simply unplug them from the power outlet for about 30 seconds, then plug them back in.
2. Check your internet plan
Your internet plan speed is the maximum speed that your internet service provider (ISP) can deliver to your home or business. If you’re not paying for the fastest plan available, you’re not getting the most out of your internet connection.
To check your internet plan speed, you can visit your ISP’s website or use a speed test website such as Speedtest.net. Speed test websites measure the actual speed of your internet connection, which may be different from your plan speed due to a number of factors, such as network congestion and the distance between your home or business and your ISP’s servers.
If your speed test results are significantly lower than your plan speed, contact your ISP to troubleshoot the issue. They may be able to help you improve your speeds by adjusting your modem and router settings, or by upgrading your plan to a higher speed tier.
How to Choose the Best Internet Service Provider
3. Move your modem and router to a better location
The location of your modem and router can have a significant impact on your internet speed. If they are located in a corner of your home or office, or if there are obstacles in the way, the signal may be weakened.
For optimal performance, try to place your modem and router in a central location and avoid placing them near metal objects or appliances.
4. Connect your devices to your router using an Ethernet cable
Ethernet cables provide a direct connection to your router, which can result in significantly faster speeds and more reliable performance than Wi-Fi. This is because Ethernet cables are not susceptible to interference from other devices or environmental factors.
To connect your device to your router using an Ethernet cable, simply plug one end of the cable into the Ethernet port on your device and the other end into an Ethernet port on your router. Once the cable is plugged in, your device should automatically connect to the internet.
5. Close any unnecessary programs and tabs
When you have a lot of programs and tabs open on your computer or mobile device, it can slow down your internet speed. To improve your speeds, close any programs and tabs that you are not using.
6. Update router /modem firmware
Firmware is the software that powers your modem and router. Keeping firmware up to date can help your internet run faster and more securely.
To check for firmware updates, log in to your modem and router’s administration panels. You should be able to find a firmware update section in the settings.
7. Use a DNS server
A DNS server converts domain names (like example.com) into IP addresses (like 192.168.1.1). Using a different DNS server can sometimes make your internet faster.
There are a number of free public DNS servers available, such as Google Public DNS and Cloudflare DNS. To change your DNS server settings, open your network settings and look for the DNS settings section.
Bonus tips
Use a VPN
A VPN can encrypt your traffic and route it through a different server, which can sometimes improve your internet speed.
Scan for malware
Malware can sometimes slow down your internet speed, so it is important to scan your computer and mobile devices for malware on a regular basis.
Disable ad-blockers
Ad blockers can sometimes interfere with your internet connection, so disabling them may improve your speeds.
How to speed up your Wi-Fi
In addition to the general tips listed above, there are a few specific things you can do to speed up your Wi-Fi
- Choose the right Wi-Fi band
Wi-Fi routers broadcast on two different bands: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz band has a longer range, but it is also more crowded and can be slower. The 5 GHz band has a shorter range, but it is less crowded and can be faster. If you are close to your router, try connecting to the 5 GHz band for better speeds.
- Use a Wi-Fi extender
If you have a large home or office, or if there are thick walls or other obstacles in the way, you may want to use a Wi-Fi extender to boost the signal. A Wi-Fi extender connects to your router and rebroadcasts the signal, extending the range of your network.
- Update your Wi-Fi adapter
If you are using an older Wi-Fi adapter, it may not be able to support the latest Wi-Fi standards. Updating your Wi-Fi adapter can improve your speeds and compatibility.
How to boost your phone’s internet speed
Here are a few tips to speed up your internet on your phone:
- Disable unnecessary apps
When you have a lot of apps running in the background, it can slow down your internet speed. To improve your speeds, disable any apps that you are not using.
- Clear your cache
Your phone’s cache stores temporary data from websites and apps. The cache can become fragmented and inefficient over time, leading to decreased phone performance. To clear your cache, go to your phone’s settings and look for the apps section. Tap on the app that you want to clear the cache for and then tap on the “Clear cache” button.
- Use a mobile data booster
If you are experiencing slow internet speeds on your phone’s mobile data connection, you may want to use a mobile data booster. A mobile data booster can amplify the signal from your cell tower, resulting in faster speeds.
I hope these additional tips help you to speed up your Wi-Fi and internet on your phone.
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can speed up your internet and improve your overall online experience. If you are still having problems with slow internet speeds, you may want to contact your internet service provider for assistance.
