Slow internet at home is a problem that many people are familiar with. When your Wi-Fi speed drops, it can significantly affect your experience using the network: from watching videos to working online or playing games. There are several reasons why your connection may not be as fast as you expect. From network congestion to physical obstacles, it's not always easy to figure out the cause. In this article, we will look at the main factors that can affect the speed of your home Wi-Fi and tell you how to fix the situation.
Multiple devices
When several gadgets use the Internet at the same time, the speed is divided between them. To solve this problem, you need a modern router that can withstand high loads.
Interferences
Many older routers operate at 2.4 GHz, which is also used by microwave ovens and many other devices, which can cause interference. The solution is to buy a dual-band Wi-Fi router that supports both 2.4 and 5 GHz.
Router location
If your router is in a corner or near a window, its signal may be weaker due to interference. For better coverage, place the device closer to the center of the apartment, away from thick walls. To find the optimal location, you can use mobile applications to analyze the signal level.
Device problems
If Wi-Fi is not working well on only one of the gadgets, the problem may be with it, not the router. Also check your router settings for restrictions.
Replacing your router
A router usually lasts about 5 years, and its performance may decrease over time.
Settings
Check your router settings for signal strength or speed restrictions.
Distance and interference
If the apartment is large, one router may not be enough. The solution may be to install a MESH system or an additional access point to improve coverage.
Problems with the provider
To check if the problem is with the provider, connect your laptop or computer to the router via cable and measure the connection speed.