Slow Wi-Fi? 7 Fixes to Try Before You Call IT

After more than 25 years in IT, I can tell you the most common call I get is some version of "the internet is slow." The good news is that most of the time the problem is not your provider. It's something small you can fix in a few minutes, and it won't cost you a dime.

Work through these in order. Each one rules out a common cause.

Fix 1: Restart your router and modem the right way

Everyone says "turn it off and on again," but the details matter. Unplug both the modem and the router from power, wait a full 60 seconds, then plug in the modem first. Give it a couple of minutes to connect before powering on the router. Those minutes let both devices reset and reconnect cleanly.

Fix 2: Test the speed over a cable

Plug a laptop directly into the router with an Ethernet cable and run a speed test. If the wired speed is close to what you pay for, your internet service is fine and the problem is your Wi-Fi. If the wired speed is also slow, the problem is upstream, and that's when it's worth calling your provider.

Fix 3: Move closer, or move the router

Wi-Fi signals weaken through walls, floors, and large objects. A router tucked inside a cabinet or in a back corner of the house is a classic cause of dead spots. Move it to a central, elevated spot, out in the open, and away from microwaves and cordless phones.

Fix 4: Check how many devices are connected

Phones, TVs, tablets, smart speakers, cameras, and game consoles all share the same connection. If someone is streaming 4K video or downloading a huge update, everyone else feels it. Log into your router and look at what's connected. If you see devices you don't recognize, change your Wi-Fi password.

Fix 5: Switch between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands

Most modern routers broadcast two bands. The 5 GHz band is faster but doesn't reach as far. The 2.4 GHz band reaches farther but is slower and more crowded. Use 5 GHz when you're in the same room as the router, and 2.4 GHz for far-away rooms.

Fix 6: Update your router's firmware

Router manufacturers release updates that fix bugs and security holes, and plenty of people never install them. Log into your router's admin page and check for updates. If it hasn't had an update in years, the router itself may be due for replacement.

Fix 7: Check for background hogs on your own computer

Sometimes the slowdown is on your device. Cloud backups, automatic updates, and too many browser tabs can all eat bandwidth. Close what you don't need, then re-test.

When it's time to call someone

If you've worked through all seven steps and the wired speed test is still poor, or the problem keeps coming back, it's time to get help. At that point you've gathered useful information, such as the wired speed result and which devices are affected. That helps whoever you call find the problem faster, and it can save you money.

Have a tech problem you'd like me to cover? Leave a comment below.