Speed Up Slow Home Wi-Fi
Buffering videos, laggy calls and slow downloads? Most home Wi-Fi can be made much faster without paying for a better plan.
Is it your Wi-Fi, or your internet plan?
Run a speed test (such as fast.com) standing next to the router, then where it's slow. If it's slow even right next to the router, the problem is your internet connection or plan, and you should contact your provider. If it's only slow far away, the tips below will help.
FIXSpeed it up
Start with the free fixes.
Unplug it for 30 seconds and plug it back in. Routers slow down after running for weeks. Many have a setting to restart automatically once a week at night.
- Put it in the middle of your home, up high, in the open.
- Keep it out of cupboards and away from TVs, microwaves, fish tanks, mirrors and thick walls.
- If it has antennas, point some up and some sideways.
Most routers broadcast two networks: 2.4 GHz (reaches further, slower) and 5 GHz (faster, shorter range). Many combine them under one name and choose for you. If yours shows two names, connect nearby devices to the 5 GHz one.
Open your router's app or settings page and look at connected devices. Big downloads, game updates, cloud backups and 4K streaming on other devices slow everyone down. Pause them, or schedule them overnight.
While you're there, check you recognise every device; change the Wi-Fi password if you don't.
In busy apartment buildings, neighbouring networks interfere. In the router settings, look for Wi-Fi channel. Set it to Auto, or try 1, 6 or 11 for 2.4 GHz. Restart the router afterwards.
In the router's app or settings, look for Firmware update or Router update. Updates fix bugs and security problems, and sometimes improve speed.
For bigger homes or dead zones, a mesh Wi-Fi system (several units that work together) gives the best coverage. A cheaper extender helps a single weak room. If your router is more than about five years old, a new one may be the biggest upgrade; ask your provider, as many replace them free.
For a desktop computer or TV that never moves, an Ethernet cable is always fastest.
If speed tests next to the router are below what you pay for, call your provider. They can test the line and replace old equipment.
FAQCommon questions
What speed do I actually need?
Roughly 25 Mbps per person streaming in HD, and more for 4K, gaming or big downloads. Most homes are fine with 100–300 Mbps.
Why is Wi-Fi slower than my plan's speed?
Wi-Fi loses speed over distance and through walls, and devices share it. Plans are measured at the router, ideally over a cable.
Is a Wi-Fi extender worth it?
For one weak room, yes. For a whole house, mesh systems work better and switch you between units automatically.
Does restarting the router really help?
Often, yes. It clears memory, reconnects to your provider and can pick a less crowded channel.