How to increase internet speed

These solutions cost nothing and can often solve the problem immediately.

1. Restart Your Router and Modem: The classic advice for a reason. Unplug both your modem and router, wait 30 seconds, and plug them back in (modem first, wait for lights to stabilize, then router). This clears their memory and can resolve many glitches.

2. Reposition Your Router: Your router’s location is critical for Wi-Fi.

   • Centralize It: Place it in a central, open location in your home, not tucked away in a corner or closet.

   • Elevate It: Put it on a shelf or table, not on the floor.

   • Avoid Interference: Keep it away from other electronics like microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors. Also, avoid placing it near large metal objects or thick brick walls.

3. Switch Wi-Fi Channels: If you live in an apartment building, your neighbors’ routers can cause interference.

   • Log into your router’s admin panel (often 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

   • Look for Wireless Settings and change the channel from “Auto” to a less congested one (e.g., 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz). A Wi-Fi analyzer app on your phone can help you find the best channel.

4. Limit Bandwidth-Hogging Activities:

   • Pause large downloads, cloud backups, or video streaming on other devices.

   • Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications that may be updating or syncing in the background.

5. Scan for Malware: Viruses and malware can use your bandwidth in the background. Run a scan with your security software.