If you’re paying for internet with a decent speed, then you should make sure that you’re getting it. While it’s easy to take internet access for granted, the frustration we feel when it starts to let us down can really grind your gears. For that reason, we’re going to look at how you can make sure that you’re getting the kind of speeds that you should be.
Troubleshooting your connection
The first thing that you should do is get a good idea of your situation with the help of an online speed test. If you’re getting lower speeds than is advertise, start by restarting your router. There are plenty of online tips for changing your wireless channels and changing your DNS that can help you speed up your net. Your router’s manufacturer should also have troubleshooting guides on their site that can help you test it out and make sure it’s running as it should be.
Getting a stronger connection with your router
There are various things that can prevent you from getting an effective connection with your router. For instance, if there is metal or reflective surfaces like mirrors in the way, that can slow your connection. Being located several rooms away will affect your connection too.
If you’re not able to maintain a wired connection or clear the obstacles in the way, then you might want to look at a powerline adapter that can help you connect to your router via wires that utilize the power cables in the home.
Managing your bandwidth
If other people are using the internet in your home, then they might be using up all the bandwidth. Think of it as your internet being a road, and other users being other cars. Streaming video and playing online games are examples of two activities that can take up a lot of bandwidth. You can ask them to stop their internet usage or get a package that allows for more bandwidth.
Changing your providers
If there are no technical issues on your end, then it’s likely to be a problem with your internet service provider or ISP. Take a look at the options for an ISP near you and consider making a switch if you’re no longer getting the quality of service that you are paying for. Your options may be limited depending on where you live, but you should be able to identify at least one other provider that you can try out.
Protecting yourself
If everything with your ISP is working as it should and there’s nothing getting in the way of your connection, then you should be aware of the viruses and other malware that can throttle your connection. Make sure that you have effective internet protection that is up-to-date and actively running to make sure that your speed isn’t getting stolen from you.
Hopefully, the tips above can help you find the problem and solve it. Whether you need to do a little troubleshooting or you need to rethink your entire ISP arrangement, modern technology isn’t the same without reliable and fast internet.
