Slow WiFi at home? The 7 most common causes and how to fix them
Weak WiFi is rarely your internet package’s fault. Here is what usually causes it – and what you can do yourself.
When the internet is slow, we tend to blame the provider. As system administrators, though, we see that in most cases the package is fine and the problem is inside the home. Here are the seven most common causes.
1. The router is in the wrong place
In a cupboard, behind the TV, at one end of the flat: the signal loses strength through walls and furniture. Ideally the router sits in the middle of the home, up high and in the open.
2. A crowded channel
In an apartment block dozens of WiFi networks may share the same few channels. Pick a different channel in the router settings and use the 5 GHz band, where there is less overlap.
3. Only the 2.4 GHz band is in use
2.4 GHz reaches further but is slower. For nearby devices, 5 GHz (and 6 GHz on newer routers) gives a much faster connection.
4. An outdated router
A 6–8-year-old router simply can’t cope with today’s number of devices. If 15–20 devices connect in your household, this is often the bottleneck.
5. A large home or several floors
One router will never be enough here. The answer is a mesh system that covers the whole house with several units acting as one network.
6. Things that could be wired are on WiFi
Put the desktop computer, the TV or the games console on a cable. It is more stable, and it frees up the WiFi for mobile devices.
7. Unknown devices on your network
With a weak or long-unchanged password, the neighbours may be using your network too. You can check what is connected in the router’s admin page.
When to call a professional
If the connection still drops after all this, it is worth having the coverage measured. We do this on site and only recommend buying what will genuinely help.