Is the slowness limited to a single device?
Check other devices connected to your WiFi. Is there another phone, tablet or computer that’s running faster?
If the issue is limited to one device, try one of the following quick fixes to get things running smoothly again.
- Reboot your device. : If you haven’t powered off your device in a while, start by turning it off for about 30 seconds and turning it back on. Sometimes that’s all it takes to fix sluggish performance.
- Clear your browser history: In the settings of your internet browser, find the option to clear your browser history, including cookies and cached websites. It’s a good idea to do this on a regular basis to keep your browsing experience running smoothly.
You should notice an immediate improvement in your internet performance after clearing the cache. - Install updates: Find out if updates are available for your device’s operating system or any key applications or software. If so, installing the newest versions could boost performance for your online activities.
Consider upgrading to a new device. If rebooting, clearing cache and installing updates don’t improve a device’s connectivity performance, it might be time to upgrade. Some older devices simply can’t keep up with faster network speeds. These days there are many budget-friendly devices that support today’s high-speed internet. Check for trade-in and upgrade deals offered by device manufacturers and big box retailers.
Are all your WiFi-connected devices running slowly?
If connectivity is slow across all your devices, you may have a network issue.
Quick Fix: Try rebooting your WiFi router. Turn the device off for about 30 seconds before turning it back on. Give it a few minutes to come back online. If internet is still slow, connect with Ziply Fiber technical support for help.
Are some connected devices okay while others are slow?
Devices on your network share a finite amount of bandwidth distributed by your router. Smart technology and high-data activities can stretch network bandwidth thin.
Identify devices using large amounts of data.
Activities like online gaming, uploading media files, and high-definition video streaming can force your router to redistribute bandwidth, leaving some devices running slowly.
Quick Fix: Pause the high-data activity and see if your connectivity improves overall.
Identify devices that are connected to your WiFi but not in use.
Though your Roomba may not be running, if it’s connected to the WiFi, it’s using some of your home’s limited bandwidth. Same goes for the TV in your guest bedroom and that internet-radio in the bathroom.
While you shouldn’t disconnect priority equipment like your home security system or smart fridge, you might notice an immediate improvement to internet performance after unplugging connected devices that aren’t in use.
Quick Fix: Unplug connected gadgets and equipment that don’t need to be online 24/7.
If you need to accommodate more devices or high-data activities on a regular basis, consider upgrading your internet plan.
Could your router signal be blocked?
WiFi signals need clear passage to travel throughout a home.
- Is your router shoved underneath or behind a desk or other large furniture?
- Is it under a tangle of cords that power other equipment like a television or computer?
- Is it behind thick building materials like wood, metal or sheetrock?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, consider relocating your router so it can “breathe”.
Find a spot that’s more open, with the fewest number of walls nearby.
- One-story homes: Place your router as centrally as possible, clear of large furniture and other equipment cords.
- Multi-level homes:Place your router on the highest floor possible. WiFi signals travel downward more easily than upward.
Consider adding a WiFi booster to extend the reach of your router.
Is your house larger than the reach of your router?
If there are areas in your home where the WiFi signal seems weak or non-existent, consider adding booster technology to extend the reach of your router’s signal.