Why Is My Wi-Fi So Slow? 7 Things to Check First
Before you replace the router, call your internet provider, or decide the whole network is cursed, check these seven things first.
Restart the router
If your Wi-Fi suddenly slows down or starts dropping, a restart is the easiest place to begin. Routers can get stuck just like computers do.
Make sure you're on the right network
Phones, laptops, and game systems sometimes reconnect to an extender, guest network, hotspot, or old saved network without you noticing.
Move closer to the router
Walls, floors, furniture, appliances, and plain old distance can weaken a Wi-Fi signal. A device can still say it is connected even when the connection is poor.
Check how many devices are using the network
Streaming, gaming, video calls, cloud backups, smart TVs, cameras, and downloads can all compete for bandwidth at the same time.
Run a speed test in more than one spot
One speed test only tells you what is happening in that exact location. Testing near the router and again where the problem happens helps you see whether the issue is your internet service or Wi-Fi coverage.
Reconnect to Wi-Fi
A saved connection can occasionally get stuck or behave strangely. Disconnecting and reconnecting gives the device a fresh connection to the network.
Check whether the problem is one device or everything
If every device is slow, look at the router or internet service first. If only one device is struggling, the problem is more likely on that device.
Still slow?
If the connection is slow on every device even when you're close to the router, the next step is checking your internet speed, router placement, and whether your provider is having an issue.