Why is your internet slow? Here are the top fixes for faster internet

Updated 9:38 am ET Jan 28

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Key takeaways
Slow internet can cause buffering during streaming, dropped video calls and general inconvenience.
Common causes of slow internet include poor Wi-Fi connection, equipment placement, signal interference and network congestion.
Test your internet speed, troubleshoot issues like proximity to the router and outdated equipment and consider upgrading your plan or switching providers to improve your internet speed.

Why is my internet so slow?

Getting a bad internet connection can be frustrating and make it feel like you’re not getting your money’s worth, but many issues can be fixed right away.

The reasons your high-speed internet is not working can include:

Bad Wi-Fi connection.
Suboptimal equipment placement.
Signal interference.
Network congestion.

Find out why your download or upload speeds are so slow and learn how to increase download speeds on your devices on this page.

Factors that affect slow internet

One or more of the following circumstances could be causing slow internet speeds in your home.

Internet plan: Your internet plan could be too slow to support your household’s online activities.
Device connection: Devices connected to your modem with an ethernet cable will get faster speeds than those using Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi connection: Wi-Fi signals fluctuate throughout your home — you’ll get a better signal closer to the router, while barriers like walls or doors can slow it down.
Online activities: Streaming and gaming use more bandwidth than other activities and affect the speeds of other Wi-Fi devices as a result.
Provider congestion: When more people are online (evenings, weekends, holidays), ISPs use speed throttling to manage overcrowded networks.
Your equipment: An outdated modem and router can slow your internet speed, as can a device affected by a computer virus or malware.
Internet connection type: Certain types of internet connection are more prone to temporary slowdowns.
- Cable, 5G, fixed wireless and satellite internet are shared connections, so network traffic affects everyone’s speeds.
- Fixed wireless and 5G internet connections are faster when you are closer to the nearest cell tower.

How to increase your internet speed

First, use a speed test to compare your plan’s expected speed with the actual speed.

Then troubleshoot factors that you can control, such as:

Moving your device closer to your router.
Updating old equipment (e.g., modem, router, gateway).
Reducing the number of connected Wi-Fi devices.

10 steps to make your internet faster

Restart your equipment. Turn off your gateway (or modem/router) for 60 seconds to clear the cache, install updates and improve speed. Restarting other devices, like your cellphone or laptop, can help speeds too.
Move your equipment. For fiber, cable and DSL internet, your gateway needs to be centrally located in your home; for fixed wireless or 5G, it needs to be near a window. Avoid putting your modem in a closet or near appliances like microwaves that can interfere with Wi-Fi signals.
Change your Wi-Fi password. Update your Wi-Fi network password to prevent unauthorized access, especially in apartments. If you have a guest network, ensure it’s also password-protected.
Disconnect some devices. Internet-connected devices use some data even when in standby mode, so unplug or turn off unused devices to boost internet speed.
Plug your device into the modem. Use an Ethernet cable for faster speeds or move closer to the router for faster Wi-Fi speeds.
Check/update router firmware. Make sure your Wi-Fi router is using the latest software by logging into your router settings through a web browser (check the manual for the address) or its app.
Update your equipment. Ensure your modem and router support your internet speed, as outdated equipment can limit performance. If your modem is old, contact your ISP for an upgrade.
Contact your provider. If your speed test results are much lower than your internet plan, contact your ISP for solutions like a gateway upgrade or Wi-Fi extenders.
Add a Wi-Fi booster or extender. A Wi-Fi mesh system uses wireless boosters, or extenders, to amplify your router’s signal, improving speed in areas of your home with weak coverage.
Change your internet plan. If speed issues persist, you may need a faster plan. Enter your address on this page to find internet deals near you.
Change your internet provider. Consider switching to fiber or cable internet for faster speeds than DSL, satellite or fixed wireless connections. Enter your address to explore options.

Slow internet FAQs

How many devices can be on a Wi-Fi network at once?

Technically, there is no limit on how many devices you can connect to Wi-Fi, but your ISP may suggest an optimal number for your speed plan. Your internet speed will be split among the number of connected devices. The more devices you use simultaneously, the slower your speed for each will be.

Can you fix bad internet connections?

Yes. Since there are several reasons why your internet might be slow, there are also several solutions to fix slow internet speeds. Troubleshooting and trying multiple options is the best way to get a better internet speed right now.

Why is my internet so slow on my phone?

Slow internet speed on your phone can be caused by a low battery, having your phone in low-power mode, having too many open apps or having a full memory. Try deleting or offloading photos and files to the cloud, charging your battery and turning off low-power mode. Closing background apps can also improve your phone’s internet speed. The internet can also run slower on older model phones.

Why is my download speed so slow?

Slow download speed may be caused by various issues, including a slow internet plan, a busy network, problems with your modem or router or a bad Wi-Fi connection.

Why is my Wi-Fi not working?

If your Wi-Fi is slow or not working, try plugging a device into your modem with an ethernet cable to determine if it’s just the Wi-Fi that is not working or if the internet connection is disconnected. If your internet connection is disabled, you may need to call your ISP. If your connection is running, but the Wi-Fi signal isn’t connecting, you may need to reboot your router or gateway.

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Lisa IscrupeAllconnect.com

Lisa Iscrupe is a senior writer helping readers understand the complexities of broadband, internet and other home services, including energy and renewable products. Her work appears on SaveOnEnergy.com and CNET.com, with national sources such as CNN, The Daily MBA and The Media Bulletin referencing her articles.

Hannah WhatleyAllconnect.com

Hannah Whatley is an editor who enjoys collaborating with writers to offer readers the most relevant, accurate, and up-to-date information for their home purchases. She has previously edited for The Motley Fool, The Modest Wallet, Grammarly, JoinCake.com and SaveOnEnergy.com, gaining expertise in several industries. Hannah has a B.A. in English from Thomas Edison State University. When she isn’t editing, she enjoys studying linguistics and languages.

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