Slow Wi-Fi can be a significant hassle, impacting activities like video calls, streaming, and online gaming. Typical reasons for a sluggish connection include interference from other devices, distance from the router, outdated hardware, and network congestion due to multiple connected devices. Applications that consume a lot of bandwidth and problems with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can also contribute to the slowdown.
Fortunately, there are several solutions to these issues. You can try repositioning your router, utilizing the 5 GHz band, updating your equipment, or contacting your ISP to identify any underlying problems.
Common Causes of Slow Wi-Fi# Interference from Other DevicesOther electronic devices, such as microwaves, baby monitors, and even nearby Wi-Fi networks, can disrupt your Wi-Fi signal. This is especially common on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, which is more susceptible to interference.
# Distance from the RouterThe strength of your Wi-Fi signal diminishes the further you are from the router. Physical barriers like thick walls, floors, and ceilings can also weaken the signal, resulting in slower speeds.
# Too Many Connected DevicesHaving multiple devices connected to your network at the same time—such as smartphones, laptops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles—can consume a significant amount of bandwidth, leading to a slowdown in Wi-Fi performance.
# Outdated HardwareOlder routers and devices may struggle to support the higher speeds available with modern internet connections. Additionally, outdated firmware can cause performance issues.
# ISP IssuesYour Internet Service Provider (ISP) might be facing outages, maintenance, or slowdowns in your area. Alternatively, you may have reached a data cap, resulting in throttled speeds.
# Bandwidth-Intensive ApplicationsCertain applications, like streaming HD videos, online gaming, or downloading large files, can use a substantial amount of bandwidth, leaving less available for other activities.
How to fix slow Wi-Fi# Reposition your routerMove your router to a central location to minimise the distance between it and your devices. Ensure it’s elevated and away from walls or large metal objects that could interfere with the signal.
# Switch to a less congested channelYou can manually switch your router’s channel to avoid interference from neighbouring Wi-Fi networks. Most modern routers have an auto-select feature that chooses the least congested channel.
# Use the 5 GHz bandIf your router supports dual-band frequencies, switch to the 5 GHz band. It’s less crowded and offers faster speeds, although it has a shorter range than 2.4 GHz.
# Limit bandwidth-hogging applicationsManage the number of connected devices or bandwidth-heavy applications. You can set up quality of service (QoS) on your router to prioritise traffic for specific devices or activities.
# Update router firmware and equipmentRegularly updating your router’s firmware can improve performance and security. If your router is outdated, consider upgrading to a modern model that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards, such as Wi-Fi 6.
# Use a Wi-Fi extender or mesh networkIf your house is large or has dead spots, using a Wi-Fi extender or upgrading to a mesh network system can help boost signal strength and coverage.
# Check with your ISPRun a speed test to check if you're getting the speeds you're paying for. If the speeds are consistently lower, contact your ISP to address any issues.