Posted on October 18, 2023
Why is My Wi-Fi So Slow?
We explore common reasons for slow Wi-Fi and how to fix them.
You're paying for high-speed internet, but your Wi-Fi feels like it's stuck in the dial-up era. What gives? There are many potential culprits for slow Wi-Fi. Let's explore some of the most common reasons and what you can do about them.
Your router is like a speaker; the farther you are and the more obstacles are in the way (walls, furniture), the weaker the signal. Move it to a central, open, location.
If you live in a dense area, your neighbors' Wi-Fi might be interfering with yours. Most routers select channels automatically, but you can manually switch to a less crowded one in your router's settings.
Technology moves fast. An old router might not support modern speeds or Wi-Fi standards. Also, check your manufacturer's website for firmware updates to improve performance and security.
Every device on your network—phones, TVs, speakers—competes for bandwidth. An older router might struggle with many connections. Try disconnecting unused devices or upgrading your router.
Sometimes the issue isn't your Wi-Fi, but your internet plan. A 25 Mbps plan might not be enough for a busy household. Run a speed test with a wired connection. If it matches your plan but still feels slow, consider upgrading.