Why Your Wi-Fi Is Slow (It Is Usually Not Your Internet Plan)

When video stutters or a call drops, the instinct is to blame the internet plan. More often the problem is inside the house: the signal between the router and your device. That part you can usually fix yourself, for free.

First, test the plan itself

Run a speed test on a computer plugged into the router with a cable, or standing right beside it. If the result is close to what you pay for, the plan is fine and the problem is the Wi-Fi.

Move the router

Routers send signal outward in all directions, and walls, floors, mirrors and fish tanks weaken it. A router in a cupboard at one end of the home leaves the far rooms struggling. Put it high, central and in the open.

Pick the right band

Most routers broadcast two or three bands. The 2.4GHz band reaches further but is slower and more crowded; 5GHz and 6GHz are faster over shorter distances. If your device can see a faster band and you are within a room or two of the router, use it.

When one router is not enough

Larger or multi-storey homes often need more than one access point. A mesh system, several small units that share one network name, spreads a strong signal through the home and is usually a better buy than a faster plan.

Check for crowded channels

In flats and terraced streets, dozens of networks compete for the same airwaves. Most routers pick a channel automatically, but some get stuck on a busy one. The router's settings page usually has an option to rescan or pick a channel automatically again; it is worth trying before buying anything.

Phone apps that show nearby networks can also reveal whether every neighbour is on the same channel. If they are, moving to a quieter one can make a noticeable difference, especially on the older 2.4GHz band.

Find what is hogging the connection

A cloud backup, a games console downloading an update or a security camera uploading video can quietly take most of your bandwidth. Many routers and their companion apps list connected devices and how much each is using. Pausing or scheduling the heaviest jobs for overnight often fixes evening slowdowns on its own.