Why is my Wi-Fi slow? Seven fixes to try before you call support

When the internet feels slow, the quickest way to find the cause is to separate the connection into your home from the Wi-Fi inside it. These steps are in the order our support team usually tries them.

1. Test with a cable

Connect one laptop to the router with an Ethernet cable and run our speed test (on the home page). If the wired result matches your plan and the Wi-Fi result is far lower, the connection is fine and the problem is Wi-Fi.

2. Restart the router properly

Switch it off at the power for about thirty seconds, then on again. Wait a few minutes for all lights to settle before testing.

3. Move closer or move the router

Distance and walls weaken Wi-Fi quickly. Test in the same room as the router, then in the room where you have trouble. Raise the router off the floor and keep it away from metal, mirrors and microwave ovens.

4. Choose the right band

The 5 GHz band is faster at close range; 2.4 GHz reaches further through walls but is slower and more crowded. Put streaming TVs and laptops near the router on 5 GHz, and leave 2.4 GHz for distant or simple devices.

5. See who else is using the connection

Cloud backups, game updates and a TV streaming in 4K (15 Mbps or more, according to Netflix) can use much of a small plan. Check the router's device list for devices you do not recognise, and pause large uploads or downloads while you work.

6. Update the router

Manufacturers fix bugs and security problems through firmware updates. CISA recommends checking for the latest firmware and enabling automatic updates where the router supports them.

7. Match your plan to your household

If wired speeds equal your plan and the connection is still full at busy times, you may simply need more speed. Our article on how much speed a home needs shows how to add it up.