Guidance and advice on how to maintain a strong broadband connection at home
Your broadband speed isn’t just caused by issues with the network. Your devices, wireless performance, home wiring and even the time of day can all make it slower.
Here is some practical guidance for improving the speed and connection:
1. Device speed and connection
If your wi-fi feels slow, it could be due to the device you are using. Typically the newer your equipment, the faster the wireless speed it will support - a smartphone from 2013 can handle around half the wi-fi speeds of a modern phone.
Different things can cause a computer to slow down, which can give the impression that your broadband is slow. This includes: Running lots of programs at once, insufficient RAM, web browser add-ons and too many startup programs.
2. Where you have positioned your router
Your wireless set-up has a big impact on broadband speed, so by improving your set-up you can enjoy faster broadband.
Try and place your router close to where you'll use the internet most. Obstacles like walls, doors and wardrobes can make a huge difference to wi-fi speed.
Where practical try and connect your laptop to the router directly using an ethernet cable for fastest broadband.
Consider buying a wifi booster. There are two main types: 'Ethernet over power' or a 'Wifi range extender'.
Turn off wi-fi on your device (or put it in aeroplane mode for a few seconds), then switch it back on. Restarting your devices once in a while can help you get the best connection.
3. Others using the internet in the house
You may find that the use of internet by others will also have an impact on your broadband speeds. Ask family members to be considerate and limit their use of the internet with video streaming services (Netflix, Amazon Prime, BBC iPlayer), video games and live streaming.
4. Other devices
Some electrical devices can cause electrical interference to your router. Halogen lamps, electrical dimmer switches, stereo or computer speakers, fairy lights, TVs and monitors and AC power cords have all been known to cause interference. Keep your router as far away as possible from other electrical devices as well as those which emit wireless signals such as cordless phones, baby monitors etc. Try to place your router on a table or shelf rather than on the floor and keep it switched on.
This is very general advice and you may need to speak to your broadband provider for more detailed support or problem solving.