Most people rely on stable internet at home today, with everything from playing games to streaming movies requiring a solid connection. Sluggish internet speeds can be a real pain, but most issues getting in the way of a consistent connection can be dealt with on your end. With this in mind, let’s take a look at what may be causing slow internet speeds in Troy, Missouri.
Inadequate Internet Plan
If you only experience poor internet speeds when all members of the household are home and using devices, there’s a strong chance that you’re not on a sufficient internet plan. To figure out what speeds you’re getting during poor speed windows, run a free speed test. If the download speeds are close to your projected plan, then it’s a good indication that you’re ready for a Troy internet upgrade. While you’re busy upgrading your plan, you can compare providers to make sure you’re getting the best deals on ultra-fast fiber.
Your ISP’s Network is Congested
Your internet service provider (ISP) is responsible for supplying services to thousands of customers, which is a pretty large undertaking. Unfortunately, there are times when internet usage surges to uncontrollable levels, which leads to mass congestion. Although this issue is out of your hands, you can avoid it by enjoying your games, streaming, and heavy downloads during off-peak hours.
Your Home Network is Overloaded
Your total broadband allowance is shared between all connected devices, which means too many active devices can overwhelm the network and leave you with slow speeds. Luckily, you don’t have to start kicking devices off and yelling at people to stop using the internet. Instead, follow these steps:
- Create a guest network for visitors.
- Schedule internet-hogging activities to make it fair for everyone.
- Remove unused devices from the network.
- Access the quality of service (QoS) element to control task prioritization.
Your Router Isn’t Positioned Correctly
If you rely on wireless connections and your internet is slow, it may be because your broadband is in a poor position. For example, if your hub is trapped inside a cupboard or surrounded by technology, there will be significant interference. Therefore, you should make sure your broadband hub is positioned off the floor and left completely open, which allows the waves to travel through your home.
If your router is in the right place and you’re still facing slow speeds, it could be that certain rooms in your home are “dead zones”. If this is the case, you may need to invest in a Wi-Fi booster.
You Have Old Devices
Internet technology has come a long way over recent years, and it’s reached a point where many older devices, software, and drivers aren’t powerful enough to run properly. Therefore, instead of blaming your ISP, check to see what the maximum bandwidth is for your devices. For example, if you’re still using your much-loved PS Vita, you’ll find that it’s capped at 150 MBps.
A solid internet connection is essential in 2023, but slow speeds are something everyone will experience at some point. Before you turn on the panic switch, try the solutions outlined above.