Whether you run a business and you need a steady stream of data or you use your internet for high-speed gaming, you shouldn’t settle for less than you’re paying for. Certainly, your location can have something of an effect on your bandwidth, but you shouldn’t accept slow internet as an inevitability. Here’s how to make sure you’re getting the best speeds you can.
Take your providers to task
First, you need to figure out whether your low speeds are your net provider’s fault or they’re a problem on your end. This means having to bite the bullet and sitting through a long hold while you look for support. But don’t just come throwing out accusations. Use tools like Speedtest to see what kind of download and upload speeds you’re getting from your devices. You can compare those speeds to what your provider tells you about how much data is getting to your router. If their low speeds match your low speeds, then you need to get to fix it. Otherwise, it might be about finding the issues on your side.
The best possible connection
If you’re using an old router or one that’s particularly low quality, it might be the hardware letting you down. There’s a big difference in different routers, from supporting different numbers of users to being on different frequencies. It’s worth checking this shortlist of The Smart Future to identify one that fits your needs.
Make sure your speed is going to the right places
Is one person hogging up all your bandwidth? A good way to find that out is using the speed-testing tool we mentioned above. If you find the source, then it’s about finding out why exactly they’re hogging it. For instance, they might have a whole bunch of software connected to the internet. While you don’t want to cut off someone’s music or the like, you want to make sure they’re not using idling software that’s slowing the whole lot of you down.
Stop interference
The physical setup of your router and what’s around can have just as big an effect on how much of that bandwidth is getting properly distributed. Some common sources of interference include microwaves and other electronics around the device. You should keep it clear of any interfering devices and materials by at least three feet if not more.
Scan for malware
Adware, viruses, and spyware can force connections that eat up huge amounts of bandwidth. In fact, slowing your net connection and your computer speed is one of the tactics some of them will use to get you to click on that ‘speed-improving upgrade’. Anti-malware software and registry cleaners need to be combined to make sure you’re rid of even the most persistent. Not all intrusive software is malware, either. Windows 10 has some hefty bandwidth eating capabilities that are best disabled.
A bit of investigation, paired with the right hardware and software, can get your connection a lot faster and a lot more reliable. Hopefully, we help you find and cut out the source of your connectivity conundrum.
