Optimizing your Internet speed
Picture this! You’re streaming a binge-worthy tv series, and the previous episode left you on a cliff-hanger. You start loading up the next episode to find out what happens next, but that pesky buffering icon seems to be never-ending…
Here are a few things you can do to improve your internet connection at home!
Turn OFF and/or power cycle your router from time to time
Turning off and/or power cycling your router helps improve your connection without the need to do a reset.
Secure your Wi-Fi
Is your Wi-Fi password-protected? If not, then it is highly recommended that you set a password to prevent anyone from connecting without your permission. It also minimises sudden drops in internet speed and prevents Wi-Fi interference.
Position your router properly
Place your router at a spot in your home where most of your Wi-Fi devices are located. This helps to ensure that all your devices get an adequate amount of signal required for any online activity.
Block unnecessary advertisements
Though advertisements keep you updated on the latest trends, it can significantly slow down your internet connection. Installing a plugin that blocks advertisements can give your internet connection additional room to operate, as they prevent photos and auto-played videos from appearing out of nowhere.
Maintain a wired connection
Being connected via Wi-Fi is very convenient, but it is neither the fastest nor the safest. By connecting your computer to your router via an ethernet cable, you can ensure that you're getting a faster and more secure connection.
Your router's firmware should be up-to-date
Keeping the firmware of your router updated ensures that the latest security features are installed and enhances speed and overall performance.
Clear your browser's cache
In case you didn't know, your web browser accumulates bits of information or cookies from different websites you visit. Clearing the browser's cache removes unnecessary data stored and helps to improve your browsing experience.
Close any unused programs/tabs
You may not be aware of it, but applications running in the background may be affecting the speed of
your connection. Try closing these applications whenever you're not using them to help boost your internet speed.
Changing your Wi-Fi Channel
Wi-Fi interference can occur from electrical devices in the home or as something simple as being on the same wi-fi channel as your next-door neighbour.
Our routers are capable of receiving and transmitting data using both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. The 2.4GHz and 5GHz are divided into wireless channels and each of these channels translates to a specific radio frequency.
Both frequencies have their benefits and using the right Wi-Fi frequency band for your circumstances helps you achieve a faster and more reliable internet connection.
The 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band gives you more range and passes better through walls and other physical obstructions whereas the 5 GHz Wi-Fi frequency band provides more speed and can be better at avoiding signal interference from other routers and devices.
To learn more about how to change your channel- check out below articles.
How do I change my Wi-Fi channel - Adtran Router
How do I change my Wi-Fi channel- Linksys Router
Why am I not getting the same speeds on all my devices?
Broadband speed is distributed among all the devices connected to your router. For instance, when four devices are simultaneously using the internet, each of them will receive approximately a quarter of the total available speed.
Activities like streaming (such as live TV, YouTube, or Netflix) and online gaming consume more bandwidth. If someone in your household is engaged in these activities, it may lead to reduced broadband speed for others.
To optimise your broadband experience, we suggest disconnecting devices that are not in use.
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