Buffering? Loading? Lagging? Many of these browsing interruptions occur due to insufficient internet performance. Whether you are playing games, browsing social media, or watching videos on the web, you must have experienced low internet speed at least several times. You could come to that inevitable question why is my internet slow or being throttled?
Of course, there could be many reasons behind this, but there are solutions to counteract this problem too. In this write-up, we will go through some of the best tips to keep your internet connection intact.
Check the speed
Your internet speed may be fine, but you might not be aware of it. It can happen as some of the internet providers offer less speed in the package of the same price. So, first off, you need to check the speed you are getting on your internet plan.
To find out if you are getting less or required speed as per your internet plan, go to reliable speed test websites and check the speed presented. In some cases, you might experience certain inconveniences for other reasons than the plan you have chosen. For instance, it could be that there are many thick walls in your house, and your router cannot deliver quality connections throughout your home.
Get a new router
Your old router can be one of the reasons for low internet speed. When it is time to say goodbye to your router, you might notice other red flags as well. Why is it necessary?
As internet standards keep updating with time, the router firms also keep updating their products. Hence, if you have a router that is 4-5 years old, you need to replace it. It becomes imperative if you are thinking of upgrading your internet package.
An old router can limit your internet speed by overheating and damaging the internal components. Further, it may not have 802.11ac, the latest Wi-Fi technology, and it might not be a dual-band router.
Keep all these factors in mind to get the best router on the market.
Network piggy backers?
This can also come with someone else using your network. Of course, these unwelcome guests use it without your knowledge or consent. Thus, it is possible that they contribute to you having a slower internet connection. There are tips on how to kick piggy backers off your network. One of the first actions you need to make is to change your network password. In general, it is recommended that people change the default passwords immediately. Also, avoid simple combinations (like 1234). In the future, you can also prevent Wi-Fi thieves from using your network without your consent.
Try changing the router position
There must be many of us who might have placed the router in the corner of their house (like where we usually work or have a desktop PC installed). Now, if you are surfing the web while sitting in the other room on the other corner of the house, it may not work that well. And the reason is the position of the router.
Placing your router in the middle of your house is the ideal way to boost internet speed. Further, you can make it better by using multiple routers in the house and creating a mesh router network.
Get an ad-blocker
No matter which website you visit on the web, you will surely get to see multiple ads, auto-playing videos, etc., that may not be relevant for you. But your internet connection loves them. It will easily allow them to play and consume most of your internet speed.
In a scenario like this, the most appropriate solution is to add an ad-blocker to your browser. It will keep unnecessary pop-ups and ads out of your way to boost the internet speed.
Change the router channel
There are various reasons for which your internet can be slow or down. One reason can be the channel that your router is using. There are many channels that your internet router has, and you can change them to boost the internet speed. For example, if you are using a 2.4 GHz band router, channels 1, 6, and 11 will be ideal for you as they are not crowded.
Other than that, if you are using a 5 GHz router, you can use any of the router channels as they all have ample bandwidth. While buying a router, ensure that you opt for a dual-band router for faster speeds.
Use a VPN
Though it might be surprising, there is a chance that your ISP is limiting your internet speed and bandwidth. It is done to reduce congestion in peak hours. If you want to ensure that you are not a victim of internet throttling, download a VPN. It will keep your internet speed consistent and encrypt every piece of information that travels online.
Final Words
Low internet speed is an issue faced by almost all of us. However, if it becomes consistent, it can significantly affect your work and entertainment. In a scenario where your internet has become an issue for you, you can check and run the mentioned methods. These will surely enhance your internet speed.
