If you want to improve slow Wi-Fi at home, the first step is to find out what’s causing the problem. Is your Wi-Fi buffering when you stream video, dropping out during video calls, or running slowly on every device?
Slow Wi-Fi can be caused by a weak signal, interference, an overloaded router, a problem with one device, or a slow internet connection. These seven checks can help you improve slow Wi-Fi at home, identify the likely cause and decide what to do next.
In this guide, iTech WA explains seven practical checks you can try at home, using plain-English advice to help you avoid spending money on equipment you may not need.
1. Check whether Wi-Fi is slow on one device or all devices
First, check whether the problem affects just one device or everything connected to your Wi-Fi.
Try opening a website or streaming a video on another phone, tablet or computer connected to the same network.
- Only one device is slow: The problem may be with that device, its Wi-Fi settings, background downloads or software.
- Several devices are slow: The cause may be your modem or router, Wi-Fi interference, or your internet connection.
If possible, test the affected device near your modem as well as in the room where you normally experience problems. This can help you determine whether distance from the modem is contributing to the issue.
Identifying whether the problem affects one device or the whole household is a useful first step before changing settings or buying new equipment.
2. Test your internet speed near the modem
A speed test can help you determine whether your internet connection is delivering the speeds you expect.
- Connect a phone, tablet or computer to your home Wi-Fi.
- Stand near your modem or router.
- Open Speedtest by Ookla and run a test.
- Record the download speed and upload speed.
- Repeat the test in the room where you experience slow Wi-Fi.
Compare the results. If speeds are much better near the modem than in the problem room, Wi-Fi coverage or interference may be contributing to the problem.
If speeds are poor in both locations, your internet connection, modem or router may be the cause. For a more reliable comparison, run the tests more than once and pause large downloads or streaming where practical.
Important: A Wi-Fi speed test is not a perfect measure of your internet service. For the clearest diagnosis, a computer connected to the router by Ethernet cable can help distinguish Wi-Fi problems from internet connection problems, where a suitable port and cable are available.
3. Restart your modem and router
Restarting your modem or router can sometimes resolve temporary connection problems. It is worth trying before changing settings or buying new equipment.
- Save any work that depends on your internet connection.
- Turn off your modem and router, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If they are separate devices, wait about 30 seconds before turning them back on.
- Turn the modem on first and allow it to reconnect to the internet.
- Turn the router back on if it is a separate device, then wait for Wi-Fi to become available.
- Test your connection again.
Some internet services take several minutes to reconnect, so give the equipment time to settle before running another speed test.
Important: Restarting is different from a factory reset. Don’t press and hold the reset button, as this may erase your Wi-Fi name, password and other settings.
If slow Wi-Fi keeps returning, the underlying cause may need further investigation.
4. Move your modem to a better location
Where you place your modem or router can make a noticeable difference to Wi-Fi performance.
For better coverage around your home:
- Choose a central location: Place the modem as close to the middle of the area you want to cover as practical.
- Keep it elevated: A shelf or open bench is generally better than placing it on the floor.
- Avoid obstructions: Thick walls, large furniture and metal objects can weaken the signal.
- Keep it in the open: Avoid hiding the modem in a cupboard or behind a television.
- Allow ventilation: Don’t cover the equipment or place it where it can overheat.
If your modem is currently at one end of the house, moving it to a more central position may improve coverage without buying additional equipment.
If the modem must remain in a particular location because of your internet connection, don’t move cables or equipment in a way that could disrupt the service. Consider other options if repositioning isn’t practical.
5. Reduce Wi-Fi interference and congestion
Wi-Fi performance can suffer when many devices compete for wireless capacity or when nearby networks and other equipment cause interference.
Try these steps:
- Pause heavy downloads: Large downloads, cloud backups and software updates can use a significant amount of your internet connection.
- Check streaming devices: Multiple simultaneous video streams can place extra demands on a connection.
- Try the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands: If your router offers both, 2.4 GHz generally provides better range, while 5 GHz can offer faster speeds at shorter distances.
- Move away from interference: Keep your router away from large metal objects and, where practical, equipment that may interfere with Wi-Fi.
- Check older devices: An older phone, tablet or computer may not support the same Wi-Fi capabilities as newer equipment.
Remember that slow performance can have several causes. If your connection remains slow after reducing unnecessary network activity, continue with the remaining checks before deciding whether new equipment is needed.
6. Check for updates to your router and devices
Out-of-date software or firmware can sometimes contribute to connection problems. Check that your devices and networking equipment are up to date.
- Update your computer, phone or tablet: Install available operating system and Wi-Fi driver updates.
- Check your router or modem: Consult the manufacturer’s instructions or your internet provider to see whether firmware updates are available.
- Restart after updates: If an update requires a restart, follow the instructions provided.
- Check older equipment: If your router is very old, it may not support newer Wi-Fi standards or handle the number of devices in your home as well as newer equipment.
Don’t install firmware from unofficial websites or interrupt a firmware update while it is running. If your modem is supplied and managed by your internet provider, contact them before attempting a manual firmware update.
If the connection remains slow after these checks, the final step is to work out whether you need better equipment, a different internet plan or help diagnosing the service.
7. Improve slow Wi-Fi at home: when to get help
If you’ve tried the checks above and your Wi-Fi is still slow, it’s time to identify what needs attention.
Consider your modem or router if:
- It frequently disconnects or needs restarting.
- Wi-Fi performance is poor across several devices.
- It is old and doesn’t support the capabilities your household needs.
Consider your internet plan or service if:
- Speeds are consistently lower than expected, including near the router.
- Several devices experience slow internet at the same time.
- Your connection drops out or becomes unreliable even when Wi-Fi signal strength is good.
Consider a mesh Wi-Fi system or extender if:
- Internet speeds are good near the router but much worse in distant rooms.
- Thick walls or the layout of your home make coverage difficult.
A Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can improve coverage, but it won’t necessarily fix a slow internet service or an overloaded connection. Check the underlying problem before spending money on new equipment.
If your main problem is a weak signal in distant rooms or the garage, read our guide to extending your Wi-Fi range at home.
If you need internet in a detached shed, workshop or granny flat, see our guide to extending internet between buildings.
If you’re unsure what’s causing the problem, iTech WA can help diagnose slow Wi-Fi, connectivity issues and home networking problems in Bridgetown and across the South West of Western Australia.
Still having problems with slow Wi-Fi at home?
Slow Wi-Fi doesn’t always mean you need a new modem or a faster internet plan. By checking your devices, testing your internet speed and reviewing your Wi-Fi setup, you can often narrow down the cause.
If your connection is still slow or unreliable, professional help can identify whether the problem lies with your internet service, modem, router or home network.
Need help with your computer or technology?
iTech WA provides friendly, professional IT support for homes and small businesses in Bridgetown and the South West.
With more than 40 years of IT experience, I provide practical, plain-English advice and personal service.
Friendly, professional IT support that comes to your door.
