Slow internet connection can be very devastating and discouraging especially while dealing with web applications that require strong network connection like uploading or downloading of large files, streaming online videos, playing online-based games like online casino and so on.
While there can be numerous factors causing an internet slow-down, there are plenty of fixes too. Here we’re going to look at some of the most common causes of slow internet for ADSL, cable and wireless users – and what you can do to possibly fix each problem.
- Equipment
The first thing to check is your equipment. Old or faulty equipment can cause significant slow-downs, so check your devices, your router, your modem and your wiring. Doing this will help you single out where the problem may be coming from. For example, if you are only receiving slow internet speeds on your laptop and not on your Android smartphones and Tablets, this points to the laptop being the problem.
Fix: If you can single out a problem area, find out what you can do to fix it. With equipment issues, you may need to replace or upgrade the equipment, or get it repaired.
- Malware & Viruses
If you have spyware, malware or viruses on your Android phone and other devices connecting to the internet, you will experience noticeably slower internet speeds because these malware will run in background with network connection without your consent.
Fix: Run antivirus and anti-malware software on your device, or get it checked over by a professional.
- Bandwidth Hogs
If you have certain internet applications running, you may notice your internet connection slowing down significantly. That includes data-heavy online gaming, video conferencing, Skype and streaming. Slow-downs can also be caused by browser add-ons.
Fix: Close down data-heavy applications, and get rid of add-ons you don’t need.
- Distance from you ADSL or Router
If you are connecting via Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) or Router, the biggest factor that could affect your internet speed is the distance between you and the exchange. The further you are from the exchange, the slower the speeds you will receive.
Fix: Unless you are willing to move closer to the exchange, try calling your ISP to see what they could suggest.
- Cable
If you are connecting via cable, you may notice significant slow-downs during peak periods. Cable users share bandwidth with their neighbors. If your neighbors are accessing data-heavy applications, you will probably notice your internet slowing down.
Fix: If your ISP cannot help with this problem, you may want to consider switching to ADSL or possibly another technology.
- Contact your ISP
If you are still experiencing slow speeds, contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP). You may have reached your data limit for the month, causing a slow-down. It may also be that your ISP is experiencing network outage that particular moment or there may be another factor that your ISP could help fix.
- Wireless Connections
When it comes to slow wireless connections, there can be many causes. First check your equipment. A wireless connection is like a chain – the speeds you receive will only be as fast as the slowest link in your chain.
Next, move your router to the center of the room, into an elevated position if possible. Remove all obstacles from around the router to allow wireless signals to move unobstructed. Walls, furniture, microwaves and cordless phones can all cause interference, and slow wireless speeds.
You may want to attach an antenna to your device and to the router, and use a repeater to boost your wireless signal. It can also be a good idea to change the wireless band you are using, as you may find that your neighbors are using the same band, and slowing your speeds down.
