7 Ways to Boost Your Internet Speed

Speed is something we’ve all come to expect from our internet connections, and when you’re dealing with an ISP that just doesn’t deliver, it can be incredibly frustrating to say the least. When this happens, your first instinct may be to switch to another service provider—and in some cases, that can definitely help—but there are also plenty of things you can do to fix slow internet speed on your own. Here are seven of them!


1) Use a good modem

One of your best tools for increasing internet speed is your modem. The modem you use, such as a DOCSIS or cable, determines how fast and reliable your connection will be. If you’re using an older modem, it’s time to upgrade to a newer model that will boost your connection speeds and reduce buffering times. Many ISPs offer discounts on modems when you sign up for their service. Check with them before buying one separately.


2) Use Ethernet

Most internet providers in America offer internet service via cable—via either coaxial or fibre-optic cables. A third option, however, is called Ethernet over copper—or EoC. This is when a local internet provider offers a wireless modem that receives your data through Ethernet and then broadcasts it wirelessly as if it were cable-based. And while many people still don’t know about this service, it can actually be the fastest option available. 

In some instances, an internet provider may have several options for broadband (i.e., digital subscriber line, cable) so make sure you ask which one will work best for you before signing up for any of them. Also, consider the distance from the antenna to where you are in your home or office building—a closer distance means better reception and faster speeds.


3) Update software

Sometimes our computer’s software can bog down our internet speed. It’s a good idea to update your operating system and other software applications when you can. Before you download new programs, though, check online user reviews and do some research on whether they will truly benefit your computer or mobile device. You don’t want slow internet that makes web surfing difficult due to unnecessary downloads.


4) Reduce network load

One of your best defences against a slow connection is eliminating potential bottlenecks. Having more devices on one router—particularly large-screen TVs and computers that are always connected—can slow things down for everyone, especially if you have data caps on your home internet service. One solution: Set up a second wireless network for nonessential devices like game consoles and TVs, so they don’t bog down your primary network when you’re trying to stream a movie or download files from work.


5) Optimize your router settings

This is one of those simple changes that could make a big difference in your home network. Most routers have a channel setting, which allows you to specify on which frequency you’d like your network to broadcast. If you check and see that yours is set at auto, try experimenting with other channels—like 1, 6 or 11—to see if it improves your internet speed. Keep in mind that if one channel slows down, another might improve it.


6) Avoid WiFi dead spots

WiFi dead spots are annoying, but they’re easy to avoid. Keep an eye on your WiFi signal in different parts of your home and move any computer that won’t reliably connect into a better area for the reception. You can also purchase a long, cable USB connector for your computer (one end goes into your PC, while you can attach another device to its other end—like a router) if there aren’t any open ports near where you need it.


7) Get a new modem/router if necessary

To ensure you’re getting your money’s worth out of your internet subscription, you should periodically evaluate whether or not your modem is still providing adequate service. If it’s been over a year since you bought it and its speed has dropped noticeably, then it might be time for an upgrade. New routers are cheap and will boost your download speeds instantly—and if yours is on its last legs but can still manage dial-up, consider getting a cheap router to use until you can afford something better.

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