How to Fix Slow Internet

1. Check Your Internet Speed First

Before doing anything else, find out what speed you’re actually getting. Sometimes, your internet isn’t really slow — it’s just slower than what you expected.

Go to Speedtest.net and run a quick test. Compare the result with the speed your provider promised. If you’re paying for 100 Mbps and getting only 10 Mbps, that’s a red flag.

Make sure you test using a wired connection if possible — Wi-Fi can sometimes give false readings due to signal issues.

2. Restart Your Router and Modem

You’ll be surprised how often this fixes the problem. Routers and modems can get overloaded after running for days (or weeks) nonstop. Restarting clears their memory and resets your connection to your internet provider.

Just unplug both for about 30 seconds, then plug them back in. Wait a minute or two for them to reconnect. I call it the “digital nap.” Works wonders more often than you’d think.

3. Move Closer to the Wi-Fi Router

Wi-Fi signals get weaker with distance — especially if there are walls or furniture between you and the router. If your internet is fine near the router but lags in your bedroom or living room, it’s a signal issue, not your provider.

Try moving closer, or even better, reposition your router to a more central location. Keep it off the floor and away from metal objects or microwaves (yes, they interfere).

4. Limit the Number of Connected Devices

Let’s be real — our homes are full of connected devices these days. Phones, laptops, TVs, smart speakers, cameras — all fighting for bandwidth. The more devices online, the slower your internet feels.

Check what’s connected to your network (most routers have an app or admin page for that). Disconnect anything you’re not using, especially smart devices you barely touch.

5. Update Your Router’s Firmware

Just like your phone or laptop, routers need updates too. These updates fix bugs, improve performance, and sometimes even boost speed. You can usually log in to your router’s admin dashboard (check the back of your router for the login link) and see if updates are available.

If you’re using an older router — say, more than 4–5 years old — it might be time to upgrade. Newer models are faster and handle multiple devices much better.

6. Check for Background Apps or Downloads

If your Netflix keeps buffering, it might not be the internet’s fault — maybe your computer or phone is downloading something huge in the background. Windows updates, cloud syncs, or game downloads can quietly hog your bandwidth.

• On Windows: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc → Go to the Network tab.
• On Mac: Use Activity Monitor → Network tab.

Pause or stop any heavy downloads and see if your connection improves. It’s like traffic — when one car stops blocking the road, everything flows better.

7. Change Your DNS Settings

DNS (Domain Name System) helps your device connect to websites faster. Sometimes, your ISP’s DNS is slow. Switching to a public one can give you a noticeable speed boost.

• Google DNS: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4
• Cloudflare DNS: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1

These are free and safe to use. You can change your DNS in your network settings (on your device or router). For guides, check the official Google DNS setup page.

8. Try a Wired Connection

Wi-Fi is convenient, but cables are faster — period. If you’re working on a desktop or laptop near your router, try connecting with an Ethernet cable. You’ll likely see instant improvement in speed and stability.

9. Scan for Malware or Viruses

Sometimes, the real reason your internet feels slow is that your device is infected. Malware can run hidden background processes that eat up bandwidth.

Run a full scan using your built-in antivirus or trusted options like Malwarebytes. Make sure your security software is up to date.

10. Contact Your Internet Provider

If you’ve tried everything and your connection still crawls, it’s time to call your ISP. There might be a network outage, line issue, or bandwidth cap. Sometimes, they can even remotely reset your connection or upgrade your plan.

Be polite but firm — you’re paying for a service, and you deserve consistent speed. Ask them to check if your area is experiencing congestion or if your modem needs a firmware update.

11. Optimize Your Wi-Fi Channel

If you live in an apartment or a crowded area, your Wi-Fi might be clashing with neighbors’ signals. Most routers default to the same channels, causing interference.

You can use free tools like WiFiInfoView (for Windows) or Network Analyzer (for iPhone) to find less crowded channels. Then, log in to your router and switch manually.

12. Use a Wi-Fi Extender or Mesh System

If your internet is fast in one room but weak in another, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can help. They boost coverage across your home so you’re not stuck hugging your router for signal.

Brands like TP-Link and Netgear offer reliable options depending on your home size.

13. Avoid Peak Hours (If Possible)

Internet speed can drop when everyone in your neighborhood is online — like evenings or weekends. It’s called network congestion. Try scheduling big downloads or updates for off-peak hours (like early morning).

14. Upgrade Your Internet Plan

Sometimes, the fix is simple — your plan just isn’t fast enough for your household anymore. With multiple people streaming, gaming, and working remotely, you might need more bandwidth.

Check with your ISP for higher-speed options. It might cost a bit more, but if it saves you daily frustration, it’s worth it.

Final Thoughts

Slow internet can test anyone’s patience, but fixing it doesn’t have to be a mystery. Most of the time, it’s just a small tweak — a restart, a cable, or a quick settings change — that makes all the difference. And once it’s back to normal, you’ll wonder how you ever tolerated those endless loading circles.

So go ahead, try a few of these fixes today. You might be surprised how much faster things feel. Trust me, your future self (and your Netflix queue) will thank you.