How to Speed Up Your Slow Wi-Fi Connection in 5 Easy Steps
Slow Wi-Fi connections are as frustrating as they are common—but you don’t have to put up with one if you follow these five steps to speed up your slow Wi-Fi connection in no time!
1) Move your router
One of the easiest ways to speed up your slow Wi-Fi connection is to simply move your router. If your router is in a central location, try moving it closer to where you use the internet the most. If that doesn’t work, try moving it closer to your modem. You can also try to install an extender or an antenna if possible. Keep your router away from microwaves and cell phones because they might interfere with its signal. Try restarting your modem and/or router: Another easy way to make sure everything is running smoothly on your end is by restarting both devices. Changing channels: Sometimes our routers are set on channels that are busy and this slows down the signal even more. Find out what channel other routers are using near you and change yours accordingly.
2) Re-scan for the best channel
If you’re plagued by a slow Wi-Fi connection, there are a few things you can do to try and speed things up. One of the first things you should do is rescan for the best channel. Here’s how
- Open your Settings app
- Tap on WiFi
- Touch the ‘i’ icon next to your network name (if it has one)
- On the screen that pops up, tap on Join Other Network and choose your preferred network
3) Increase transmit power
If you’re suffering from a slow Wi-Fi connection, there are a few things you can do to try and speed it up. One is to increase the transmit power of your router. This can be done by logging into your router’s settings and increasing the power output. Doing this will give your signal a boost, but it will also drain your battery faster, so only do it if you’re desperate for a speed boost.
4) Upgrade your modem
One of the easiest ways to speed up your slow Wi-Fi connection is to upgrade your modem. If you have an old modem, it may not be able to handle the speeds offered by your internet service provider. A new modem will be able to better handle the high speeds and give you a faster connection. Keep your router away from other devices: Sometimes other devices like microwaves can interfere with a router’s signal. Try to keep your router away from these devices if possible. Upgrade the antenna on your router: If you’re still experiencing issues after upgrading your modem, try upgrading the antenna on your router as well. Replace wireless routers with wired ones: While this option can be more expensive than some of the others, replacing wireless routers with wired ones can significantly improve performance and stability of Wi-Fi connections in general.
5) Call your ISP
If you’re experiencing slow Wi-Fi speeds, your first step should be to call your ISP. They may be able to help you troubleshoot the issue and get your connection back up to speed. Here are five easy steps to follow when you call them. First, describe what you’re seeing. Second, ask for their name and contact information. Third, describe how often it happens (i.e., it only happens when my kids stream Netflix). Fourth, explain if there’s anything else that might be happening at the same time (i.e., I usually experience this during prime-time TV hours). Fifth, offer any other relevant information they might need (i.e., I’m using a Time Warner Cable modem).
