Fix your Wi-Fi: 10 ways to get faster speeds
You’re relaxing on your sofa with a bowl of popcorn and a remote. You start to stream a popular show, but the dreaded buffering circle rears its ugly head. Nothing is playing, so you whip out the nearest internet-connected device and type, “How to get faster speeds for streaming” or “Tips to speed up a slow streaming service” into the search bar.
Now your phone’s browser isn’t working, Alexa is dead and the whole network is down. Spotty home Wi-Fi can cause many frustrating network hiccups. There are plenty of reasons why your Wi-Fi keeps slowing down at the worst possible moments.
Maybe the problem boils down to signal congestion, physical location, firmware issues or hardware limitations. Keep reading for surefire ways to boost your home’s Wi-Fi and stop buffering once and for all.
1. Update your router’s software
Checking for your router’s latest firmware should be your first troubleshooting step. Updates are critical for everything, from your computer to installed software and applications. That’s why you should update at least once every three months.
There are two reasons for this. First, you can take advantage of all the new features and improvements of new firmware versions. Second, your system is up to date with security patches and preventative programs.
You should have the option to check, review, download and install your router’s new firmware on its administration page. Getting there depends on your router model, so check your user manual for detailed instructions. If you’re not sure where the manual is, use ManualsOnline.
This site has manuals for more than 700,000 products, so you’ll likely find details for your router there. Just type your product into the search bar and get ready to find answers.
Keep in mind that router firmware updates require a restart. So make sure you don’t have ongoing activities that require a network connection when you update.
2. Change channels
The next tweak you could do is change the channel of your router. Are you using the 2.4GHz frequency? Get away from this congested channel ASAP.
The best budget router for large homes: TP-Link Deco S4
According to your answers, the right router for your home is the TP-Link Deco S4 — our top budget pick for larger homes.
This mesh Wi-Fi router system works in homes up to 5,500 square feet and allows you to connect up to 100 devices. A mesh system is superior at eliminating dead spots and weak signals so this is the pick for you if you struggle with connectivity problems in areas of your home.
Our pick for the most powerful router on the market: NETGEAR Orbi RBK852
Based on your answers, the NETGEAR Orbi RBK852 is the ideal router for your home. Granted, this tri-band mesh Wi-Fi system is an investment, but it’s one we think is worth making if you have a large home and many devices.