Poor internet speed can ruin everyone’s mood. Sometimes users notice that the Internet on the computer freezes even at normal speed: the connection can fail from several minutes to several hours. Such a problem can occur not only on a stationary computer. The Internet can hang on laptops, smart TVs, tablets, and even smartphones.
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5 Problems That Slow Your Internet Speed
If the connection is unstable, it is impossible to download files, watch movies or communicate via video calls. You are tormented by the question: “Why is my Internet connection so slow all of a sudden?” Our article will help you find the answers! We have collected five typical problems that slow down the Internet and shared tips on fixing these errors.
Too Many Gadgets
Intelligent cameras, voice assistants, robotic vacuum cleaners, or remote control light bulbs are gradually becoming an integral part of our homes. Did you know that such Internet of Things devices connects to Wi-Fi with their IP address? You are most likely hearing about it for the first time. Therefore, we will explain why too many devices connected to the Internet harm you.
Each intelligent device must send and receive a large amount of data for stable operation. However, most home routers cannot handle a large number of registered Wi-Fi devices at the same time. As a result, the system selectively weeds out machines that it cannot serve and slows down the Internet speed.
Therefore, checking the router will be a simple and quick solution for those who cannot sleep because of the thought: “How can I improve my Internet speed?” Maybe your router is too old. If your financial situation allows you to upgrade your device, do it. Ubiquiti UniFi is the best for scalable, high bandwidth Wi-Fi.
Misconception Opinion About VPN
Many users regularly use VeePN. This tool allows you to create good Internet privacy and access blocked content. Despite this, some users wonder, “do VPNs slow Internet connections?” We want to rid you of this obsessive question forever.
Modern VPN services have advanced server infrastructure and configurations, resulting in no changes in connection speed: your Internet will work the same as before. But how you place your router is one of the decisive factors for your home Wi-Fi.
Complex objects such as walls, floors, cabinets, and doors impair Wi-Fi penetration. In other words, the more things between your device and router, the worse your network will perform. Therefore, we recommend that you move the router to where you are most often, and then the wireless throughput will stabilize.
Old Network Cables
If your computer is connected to a router and you have Ethernet cables throughout your home, it’s worth checking the type of cables. Electrical cables can serve you for about 50 years. However, network cables undergo many changes every year, which, in turn, affects the speed of data transfer.
The easiest way to check the quality of a cable is to look directly at it. Perhaps at the beginning of the cable, at the end, or somewhere in the middle, you should see the specification of the Cat number:
- Cat-5, the oldest cable, provides the slowest data rate (100 Mbps).
- Cat-5e is the most popular cable and provides a medium data rate (1000 Mbps).
- Cat-6/6a is the most advanced cable and provides the fastest data transfer rate (10000 Mbps).
If you are using the first cable type, you need to change to a more modern one: Cat-5e or Cat-6/6a. In the next ten years, we do not recommend switching to Cat-7 or Cat-8 cables, as they are not much different from Cat-5e or Cat-6/6a, and you won’t see any difference in speed.
Unreasonable Use of Powerline or Wi-Fi Extenders
Some users want to fool nature and think that the simple solution to Wi-Fi problems is to buy an extender: a small box plugs into your wall outlet and repeats the Wi-Fi signal to another part of the house. Some even use “Powerline” adapters that allow network signals to be sent through household electrical cables.
However, as practice shows, these tools cannot cope with the root of the problem and often worsen the situation by adding even more interference to the connection. The solution to this problem can be to install a mesh Wi-Fi system or an UniFi, which allows you to add access points as needed.
Your Internet Provider Regulates Your Connection Speed
Many ISPs deliberately slow down your connection if you use too much traffic or reach a certain megabyte usage threshold. This problem often occurs on mobile data connections and does not bypass home broadband connections.
You should clearly understand your typical internet speed and check it regularly. If you find that the Internet speed has decreased and your ISP does not report any malfunctions, you are being deliberately limited in your actions. To resolve this issue, we recommend reducing your download activity or changing your ISP, which won’t set limits.
Conclusion
Despite the rapid development in the world of the Internet, you may still experience problems with connection speed. Too many connected gadgets, incorrect router placement, outdated cables, use of an extender, and an unreliable ISP can be the main reasons for lower downloads. Try to investigate these factors carefully, and you will find the source of Internet problems.
