There is nothing more frustrating than sitting on your computer with two programs open as you watch the Spinning Wheel of Death oscillate. We all get irritated when the internet speed is slow. But instead of shouting and breaking your new Macbook, try these tips for increasing the speed of your internet.
Why Does Your Internet Slow Down?
When you go to a coffee shop, what is the first thing you ask them? You probably ask “what is the Wi-Fi password”. Most people encounter two risks with free Wi-Fi; slow internet speed and cyber attack threats. In response to cyber attacks, people are well aware of security tools such as VPNs which are mostly paid. However, there are good free VPN choices too. Unfortunately, many individuals cannot find an appropriate way to avoid slow internet hassles.
There may be many reasons for your internet to slow down. Some of these reasons are given as follows:
- Modem and Router
- Wi-Fi Signal
- Coax Splitters
- ISP
1. Modem And Router
One of the most common main reasons for your internet to slow down is the modem or the router you are using. Like PCs, your modems or routers occasionally get jammed. As a result, your internet becomes sluggish, and encumbered.
People often make the mistake of calling tech support and assuming the slow internet speed is due to the service provider being down. However, it is important to check your router first. Often the issue is on your side and a simple reboot can speed up your internet.
2. Wi-Fi Signal
However, if you find that the problem is not from your side, then you have to confirm that the Wi-Fi signals are fine.
A corrupt Wi-Fi connection may seem like an internet connection problem, especially since it can also disturb all the devices in your house. However, there are quite a few reasons you may have a bad Wi-Fi signal. The frequencies could be jammed with too many devices in the neighboring area. This is especially true if you are using 2.4 GHz and not 5 GHz, which can maintain a lot more devices.
This is a particularly common problem in heavier town areas. For instance, if you live in a flat, with neighbors who have a bunch of wireless routers and other devices, then your internet connection will slow down.
3. Coax Splitters
If someone has a cable internet, then they will surely have coaxial cable splitters on the line working on your cable device. Consequentially, these coax splitters might be the reason your signal strength is weak.
Coax splitters vary in quality. If the quality is good, then there is no issue. However, if the quality is low or cheap, then this will corrupt you coax cable splitter and your internet connection will slow down . If you use too many coax splitters, that will also cause issues.
Similar to routers, if your coax splitters are old, it may be time to replace them.
4. ISP
Your internet service provider (ISP) plays a very important part in your connection speed. For example, If you transfer your whole Steam library on a fresh hard drive, or just finished watching an entire episode of Atlanta, you may exceed your ISP plan. As a result, your ISP might be curbing your connection.
A bad ISP may also correlate to an internet connection problem. A network error or drop of the signals from ISP may be responsible for your slow internet connections.
Preventions
All these problems can easily be prevented. Some precautions that we can use are:
- Reboot your router
- Position of router
- Disconnect coax to troubleshoot
- Report ISP the problem
1. Reboot your router
Most of the times the problem is only with your router. Therefore, the very first step that you should take is restarting your router. This will often solve your speed issues.
Your router may also be very old. Routers often go for years without replacement. As a result, the router will simply function at a slower level. In this case, it will likely be worthwhile to get a new router.
2. Position of Router
Additionally, the position of your router is an important reason for internet connection to slow. If you place your modem in the correct spot, where the connection does not get entangled with the others, then it will provide a better internet connection.
You can also help this problem by using a mesh Wi-Fi. Mesh Wi-Fi systems have two or more devices just like your router (but better) that work together to comprehend your house layout. Consider it an arrangement of multiple Wi-Fi extenders that are much easier to set up and do not require multiple network names or any other flukes that some extending cables have.
3. Disconnect coax to troubleshoot
Another very easy way to deal with your connection problem is disconnecting your coax cable splitter. Following this, you must troubleshoot your internet connection. After doing so, check your internet connection. If the connection seems powerful, then your problem is solved, and it was in the coax cable splitter.
It is better to troubleshoot your connection properly when the connection runs slow. In contrast to a simple router reboot, troubleshooting gets to the source of the problem. It keeps your internet working on moderate speed, and you will not experience slow internet as often.
4. Report the problem to ISP
The very final step is calling your ISP (internet service provider). When none of the tactics listed above work, then the only way to deal with it is calling a professional and reporting your problem.
Your ISP will let you know whether your connection is being throttled or if there is a larger issue with the provider. However, if neither of these are the case, then ISP would try to find the connection error and fix it.
You are paying your ISP for your internet. Therefore, take advantage of their services and report whenever you have a disconnection. After all, they are the ones responsible for providing you good quality internet speed.
Tags: Cybersecurity, Internet, Router, Wi-Fi
