Slow Wi-Fi? A 10-minute checklist before you call anyone

“The internet is slow” is the most common IT complaint there is, and the cause is often something small. Work through these steps in order. Each one rules out a different layer of the problem.

1. Check whether it’s Wi-Fi or the internet itself

Plug a laptop into the router with a network cable and run a speed test. If the cable is fast and Wi-Fi is slow, the problem is your wireless, not your provider. If both are slow, skip to step 5.

2. Restart the right way

Power the router off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it on. A restart clears memory and overheating problems that build up over weeks. Wait a few minutes for it to fully reconnect.

3. Move closer, or move the router

Wi-Fi weakens through walls, floors and metal. Place the router high, in the open, and near the middle of your home. Keep it away from microwaves, cordless phones and thick concrete walls.

4. Switch bands

Most routers offer two bands:

• 2.4 GHz reaches farther but is slower and crowded.
• 5 GHz is faster but has shorter range.

Use 5 GHz when you’re in the same room or one room away, and 2.4 GHz for far corners.

5. Find what is hogging the connection

A device downloading a large update, a cloud backup, or a streaming box in 4K can use most of your bandwidth. Check your router’s connected-device list and pause the big uploads and downloads.

6. Change your DNS

If pages hesitate before loading, DNS may be slow. Try a public DNS service in your router or device settings. This costs nothing and is easy to undo.

7. Update the router

Routers have firmware just like phones. Updates fix bugs and security holes. Check the admin page or app for an update.

When to call your provider

If a wired connection is slow after a restart, and the problem lasts at different times of day, it’s time to call. Tell them what you tested: “A wired speed test gives X Mbps against the Y Mbps I pay for, even after a restart.” That saves you a long script of basic questions.