A fast, reliable broadband connection has become essential in every household, whether for remote work, streaming, gaming, or staying connected with loved ones. However, having optimal speeds at home can sometimes feel challenging, especially with multiple devices competing for bandwidth. Fortunately, there are simple ways to boost your broadband performance without costly upgrades.
How Can I Check My Broadband Speed?
You can use online speed testing tools like Speedtest.net or your broadband provider’s own speed tester to test your broadband speed. Make sure you run multiple tests at different times of the day to get an accurate picture of your average broadband speeds.
What Should I Look For When Upgrading My Broadband Plan?
Upgrading your broadband plan can fix your slow internet problem. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when looking at a new plan. This includes:
- Speed: The speed you need depends on what you’ll be doing with your broadband. For example, a speed of 25 Mb/s is probably enough for most home users, but you might need faster speeds for streaming content, video calls, or gaming.
- Price: Make sure that the upgraded broadband plan meets your budget and that the coverage you’ll receive is worth the cost.
- Customer Support: If you are switching to a new provider with better upgrades, make sure that their customer support is available 24/7.
- Contract terms: You might get better terms on your deal. However, make sure that there are no hidden costs.
Top 10 Tips to Maximise Your Broadband Speed
If you’re struggling with your broadband speed, there are a few things you can do to maximise it. Here are a few tips you can follow:
1. Restart Your Router
It might sound simple and straightforward, but a quick restart is often the most effective way of getting your internet back up and running again. Over time, routers can become overloaded with data, leading to slower speeds and connectivity issues. By restarting your router, you clear its memory and give it a fresh start. Simply switch your router off, leave it for 30 seconds, then turn it back on again. You can also turn off the Wi-Fi on your devices and wait a few seconds before reconnecting.
2. Update the Firmware
Router manufacturers periodically release firmware updates that can improve your router’s performance, security, and compatibility. Updating it can help optimise your broadband speed and fix any known bugs or issues.
The process might be made simpler by certain routers’ automatic firmware update features. When updating the firmware, exercise caution as an improper update may result in problems with your router’s operation. For more instructions, consult the documentation that came with your router.
3. Position Your Router Optimally
The location of your router in your home can affect the Wi-Fi signal. To maximise coverage and speed, place your router in a central location in your home, and in as high a position as possible. Try to keep it clear from obstructions such as walls and large pieces of furniture, and avoid hiding it in a corner or cupboard. If possible, put it as close as possible to the devices you use the most.
4. Use a Wired Connection
While Wi-Fi is convenient, it can be prone to signal loss, resulting in slower broadband speeds. Whenever possible, use a wired Ethernet connection to ensure you have the maximum broadband speed available. Ethernet cables provide a stable, direct connection between your device and the router, minimising signal loss and interference.
Wired connections are particularly beneficial for devices that don’t move around much like desktop computers, gaming consoles, and smart TVs.
5. Remove Devices From the Connection
It’s likely that there are multiple devices connected to your WiFi, more than you’d realise.
Too many connections can slow down your internet speed. While it’s a safe bet that you’ll need to connect your phone and laptop to the internet, try disconnecting the devices you’re not using.
6. Use Quality of Service Settings
Quality of Service or QoS is a feature found in many modern routers that allows you to prioritise bandwidth for specific devices. By configuring QoS settings, you can make sure that your most important tasks like video conferencing or gaming, have the necessary bandwidth to function smoothly.
Some routers have pre-configured QoS profiles for common activities like gaming, streaming, or web browsing, which can simplify the setup process.
7. Extend Your WiFi Reach
If your router or gateway is in the best location, but you’re still having speed or connectivity issues in certain areas of your home, you may need to extend your network’s range.
There are a few different devices you can use to increase the reach of your broadband network. These devices include:
- Wi-Fi extenders: Wi-Fi extenders connect to your router in Repeater or Access Point mode. With Repeater mode, the device uses Wi-Fi to connect to your router and rebroadcast the Wi-Fi network.
- Access points: Similar to an extender, you can buy a second router and configure it in Access Point mode. Its range, however, is far greater than that of desktop and plug-in Wi-Fi extenders which cost less.
- Wi-Fi boosters: These devices only work on routers with removable antennas. They plug directly into the router’s empty antenna port and broadcast a stronger signal than the router’s original antenna.
8. Monitor Your Broadband Usage
It’s important to keep an eye on your monthly broadband usage, especially if you have a plan with data caps or fair usage limits. Exceeding these limits can result in additional fees or slower speeds until the next billing cycle.
9. Close Apps and Programmes Running in the Background
Without you noticing, you may have many programs and applications running in the background of your laptop or phone. Even when you’re not actively using the apps, they’re still using up your bandwidth.
It’s best to close any computer programs and mobile apps you’re not using. As well as helping your device run smoother, it’ll help maximise your broadband speed.
10. Upgrade Your Broadband Plan
If you have tried all of the above-mentioned tips and your broadband speed is still not what you want, consider upgrading your broadband plan. Research various broadband providers to make sure they’ll offer you the plan that fits your budget and needs.
