Image to depict title

Why should you all suddenly worry about a broadband speed test?

Picture this: You’re on an important video call for work, presenting your brilliant ideas to your team, and suddenly, your screen freezes. Or, you’re trying to download an important document, and what should take seconds drags on for minutes. Or you’re streaming your favourite TV show, and it just keeps buffering, spoiling your mood instantly… This is what slow internet speeds cause. 

Slow internet speeds can make even the simplest tasks very time-consuming and frustrating. But what if I told you that you don’t have to settle for slow speeds? That there are simple, practical steps you can take to improve your connection?

In this post, we’ll discuss 10 effective ways to improve your broadband speed. We’ll start with the basics, like performing a broadband speed test to understand where you stand. From there, we’ll explore various strategies, from tweaking your router’s settings to making the most of your ISP’s services.

Don’t worry—there’s no technical jargon here. We’ve simplified everything, so they’re all straightforward and easy-to-follow instructions.

10 Ways to Boost Your Internet Connection

Here are 10 practical ways to boost your internet connection, starting with a broadband speed test:

1. Test Your Current Speed—Broadband Speed Test

Image to depict title

Alright, let’s start with the basics. Before you can fix something, you need to know exactly what’s wrong, right? The same goes for your internet speed. Testing your current broadband speed is like taking the pulse of your internet connection. It’s very easy, and there are a few key things you’ll want to pay attention to once you get your results.

First, you’ll want to perform a broadband speed test. Now, don’t worry—it’s not as technical as it sounds. There are plenty of free, user-friendly tools out there, like Speedtest.net, Fast.com, or your internet service provider’s own speed test tool. Simply go to one of these websites and hit the big “Go” button. And just like that, you’re good to go!

In a few seconds, you’ll see some numbers pop up on your screen. But what do they mean? Let’s break it down.

Download Speed

This is usually the big number everyone talks about. It measures how fast data is transferred from the internet to your device, and it’s measured in megabits per second (Mbps). For example, if you’re streaming a movie or downloading a file, this is the speed that matters most. Typically, you’ll want a higher number here—think of it like the speed limit on a highway. The higher the limit, the faster you can go.

Good: 25 Mbps and above. This is great for streaming HD videos, online gaming, and video conferencing without any hiccups.

Moderate: 10 – 24 Mbps. This speed can handle basic streaming and browsing, but you might experience some buffering with HD content or multiple users.

Bad: Below 10 Mbps. You’ll likely face issues with streaming, online gaming, and any high-bandwidth activities.

Upload Speed

This one measures how fast data is sent from your device to the internet, and it’s also measured in megabits per second (Mbps). A good upload speed is important for things like video calls, online gaming, or uploading large files. Although it’s generally lower than the download speed, having a decent upload speed can make a huge difference in your daily online activities, especially if you work from home or create content.

Good: 10 Mbps and above. This ensures smooth video calls, fast uploads, and minimal lag in online games.

Moderate: 5 – 9 Mbps. This speed is decent for video calls and moderate uploads, but might struggle with high-definition video calls or large file uploads.

Bad: Below 5 Mbps. You’ll experience delays in video calls, slow uploads, and potential issues with online gaming.

Ping (Latency)

This is the time it takes for data to travel to a server and back, measured in milliseconds (ms). A lower ping means a more responsive connection, which is especially important for real-time activities like online gaming or video conferencing. Imagine you’re in a race; ping is like the reaction time from when the starting gun fires to when you actually start running. The lower the reaction time, the better!

Good: Below 20 ms. Ideal for competitive online gaming and real-time communication.

Moderate: 20 – 50 ms. Generally acceptable for most online activities, including gaming and video calls.

Bad: Above 50 ms. You might experience noticeable delays and lag in real-time applications.

Now that you know how to do a broadband speed test and understand the results, you’re one step closer to optimising your internet connection. Keep those results handy because we’ll refer back to them as we go through the next steps.

2. Restart Your Router

Image to depict title

Now that you’ve completed your broadband speed test and have a sense of your current internet speeds, let’s move on to one of the simplest yet most effective tips for boosting your connection: restarting your router. Yes, it might sound like a cliché, but trust us, it works wonders.

First off, why is restarting your router such a big deal? Well, just like any other electronic device, your router can get bogged down over time. It might be handling a lot of data, or maybe it’s dealing with some minor glitches. Restarting it clears its memory, refreshes its connections, and can resolve a good number of issues.

Now, you might be thinking, “I’ve tried this before, and it didn’t seem to help.” But there’s a right way to restart your router to ensure you’re giving it the best chance to reset properly. So, let’s walk through the steps together.

Infographics

1. Unplug the Router: First, go ahead and unplug your router from the power source. This is important because simply pressing the reset button or turning it off might not be enough to clear all the temporary data.

2. Wait for 30 Seconds: Waiting for at least 30 seconds ensures that all the residual power drains from the router and gives it a complete reset. You can use this time to grab a quick drink or stretch your legs.

3. Plug It Back In: After waiting, plug your router back into the power source. Give it a few minutes to power up fully. You’ll notice the lights on the router blinking—this is a good sign. It means your router is reconnecting and re-establishing its network connections.

4. Reconnect Your Devices: Once your router is fully powered up, go ahead and reconnect your devices. You might notice an immediate improvement in your internet speed and stability. If you’ve been experiencing issues, this simple restart can often be a quick fix.

You might be wondering; Why does this work so well? Look at your router as a mini-computer. Over time, it can accumulate minor errors and cache data that might slow it down. By restarting it, you’re giving it a clean slate, which can often lead to improved performance. So give it a try and see if there’s an improvement.

3. Position Your Router Correctly

Image to depict title

So you’ve done a broadband speed test and restarted your router, but maybe you’re still not seeing the speeds you hoped for. Don’t worry, we’ve got another trick for you to try. The next tip is all about where you place your router. Believe it or not, the position of your router can significantly impact your internet speed and overall connection quality.

Let’s talk about why router placement is so important. Routers send out Wi-Fi signals in all directions, and these signals can be blocked or weakened by walls, furniture, and other obstacles. If your router is tucked away in a corner or hidden behind a bunch of things, those signals aren’t going to travel very far. And, if your router is placed in the ground floor or an upstairs room while you’re trying to stream videos in the living room, you’re probably not getting the best connection.

So, what’s the ideal placement for your router? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your broadband speed test results:

Infographics

1. Place in a Central Location: Try to place your router in the centre of your home. This way, the Wi-Fi signals can reach every corner more effectively. If your router is centrally located, it can provide a more even and stronger signal throughout your house. 

2. Place in an Elevated Position: Routers tend to broadcast signals downward, so placing your router higher up can help spread the signal more effectively. Try putting it on a shelf or mounting it on a wall. This not only improves coverage but also helps the signal avoid obstacles that might be on the floor or at lower levels.

3. Avoid Obstructions: Keep your router out in the open. Avoid placing it inside a cabinet, behind a TV, or near thick walls. Materials like metal, brick, and concrete can significantly weaken Wi-Fi signals. The fewer obstacles between your router and your devices, the better your internet speed will be.

4. Place Your Router Away from Certain Electronics: Some electronic devices can interfere with your Wi-Fi signal. Microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors can all cause interference. Try to keep your router away from these types of devices to maintain a strong signal.

5. Use Wi-Fi Extenders or Mesh Networks: If you have a large home, or if certain rooms just never seem to get good Wi-Fi, consider using a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh network system. These devices can help extend the range of your Wi-Fi signal, ensuring that even the farthest corners of your home get decent coverage.

If you follow these tips, you should see a noticeable improvement in your internet speed and connection quality. A well-placed router can make all the difference and turn those frustratingly slow spots in your home into areas of smooth connectivity.

4. Update Your Router’s Firmware

Image to depict title

Firmware, simply put, is the software that runs on your router. It’s like the operating system on your computer—it controls how your router functions, including its performance and security features.

Why Firmware Updates Are Important?

Firmware updates are the vitamins and minerals your router needs to stay healthy and perform at its best. Manufacturers release updates regularly to fix bugs, improve stability, enhance security against cyber threats, and even boost overall speed capabilities. Keeping your router’s firmware up to date ensures that it can handle the latest technology and deliver the best possible performance for your internet connection.

Steps to Update Your Router

Infographics

Updating your router’s firmware doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Check Your Router Model: First things first, you’ll need to know the model number and manufacturer of your router. This information is usually found on a sticker on the bottom or back of your router.

2. Access the Router’s Web Interface: To update the firmware, you’ll need to log into your router’s web interface. This is done through a web browser on a device connected to your router. Simply type the router’s IP address into your browser’s address bar. Common addresses include 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1. You may need to enter a username and password—these are often set to default values like “admin” and “password,” so check your router’s manual if you haven’t changed them.

3. Locate the Firmware Update Section: Once logged in, navigate to the firmware or update section of the router’s settings. This might be labelled as “Administration,” “Maintenance,” or “System”, depending on your router model.

4. Download the Latest Firmware: Visit the manufacturer’s website or check within the router’s interface for the latest firmware version available for your specific router model. Download the firmware file to your computer—it’s usually in a compressed format (ZIP).

5. Upload and Install the Firmware: Back in the router’s web interface, there should be an option to upload the firmware file you downloaded. Follow the on-screen instructions to upload and install the new firmware. This process may take a few minutes, and your router may reboot during the update.

6. Restart Your Router: After the firmware update is complete, it’s a good idea to restart your router to ensure all changes take effect properly. Simply unplug the power, wait for about 30 seconds, and then plug it back in.

7. Verify the Update: Once your router has restarted, log back into the web interface and verify that the firmware has been successfully updated. You should see the new version number displayed.

Updating your router’s firmware is an important yet often overlooked step in maintaining a fast and secure internet connection. Staying up to date with the latest firmware releases allows you not only to improve performance but also to protect your network from potential vulnerabilities. So, take a few minutes to check for updates and give your router the boost it deserves. It might just be the trick to getting great results on your broadband speed test.

5. Secure Your Network

Image to depict title

Ensuring your Wi-Fi network is secure not only protects your personal data but can also significantly improve your internet speed by preventing unauthorised access.

Why Should You Secure Your Network?

Imagine this: you’re streaming your favourite show or playing an intense online game, and suddenly, everything slows down. Frustrating, right? One possible reason could be that unauthorised users—neighbours, passersby, or even strangers—are leeching off your Wi-Fi. When multiple users are connected to your network without your permission, they’re using up valuable bandwidth, which means less for you and your devices. When you secure your network, you can ensure that only authorised users have access. This keeps your internet fast and your data safe.

Steps to Secure Your Wi-Fi

Infographics

1. Change the Default Admin Credentials: First and foremost, change the default username and password for your router’s admin panel. Many routers come with standard credentials like “admin” and “password,” which are easy for intruders to guess. Choose a strong, unique password that includes a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.

2. Enable WPA3 Encryption: Encryption is like a lock on your network’s front door. Make sure your Wi-Fi network is using the latest encryption standard, WPA3. If your router doesn’t support WPA3, use WPA2. This step ensures that any data sent over your network is encrypted and harder for outsiders to intercept.

3. Create a Strong Wi-Fi Password: Your Wi-Fi password is the key to your network. Make it strong and unique. Avoid easy-to-guess passwords like “12345678” or “password.” Instead, use a mix of upper- and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. The stronger the password, the harder it is for unauthorised users to gain access.

4. Hide Your SSID: Another effective way to secure your network is by hiding your SSID (Service Set Identifier), which is the name of your Wi-Fi network. When your SSID is hidden, it won’t appear in the list of available networks. This doesn’t make your network invisible, but it adds an extra layer of security by making it less obvious to potential intruders.

5. Enable a Guest Network: If you often have visitors who need to use your Wi-Fi, set up a guest network. This keeps your main network secure by providing a separate connection for guests. You can even set a different password for the guest network and limit its bandwidth to ensure your primary connection remains fast.

6. Keep Your Router’s Firmware Updated: Remember those firmware updates we talked about? They’re not just for boosting speed—they also patch security vulnerabilities. Regularly check for updates and apply them to keep your router secure.

7. Monitor Connected Devices: Most routers allow you to see a list of connected devices. Periodically check this list to ensure only devices you recognise are connected. If you see any unfamiliar devices, change your Wi-Fi password immediately and consider additional security measures.

Preventing unauthorised access, you can keep your broadband speed test results high and enjoy a smoother online experience.

 6. Use a Wired Connection

Image to depict title

Alright, so you’ve done your broadband speed test, restarted your router, positioned it perfectly, updated the firmware, and secured your network. But you’re still looking for ways to get a little more speed and stability? Well, let’s talk about going old school with a wired connection. Sometimes, the best way to get a stable and fast internet connection is to plug in directly with an Ethernet cable.

Benefits of Wired Connections

Infographics

Why would you want to go wired when Wi-Fi is so convenient? There are several compelling reasons:

1. Speed and Stability: Wired connections typically offer faster and more consistent speeds compared to Wi-Fi. When you’re connected directly to your router with an Ethernet cable, you’re bypassing potential Wi-Fi interference and signal loss. This can be especially beneficial if you’re streaming 4K videos, gaming online, or downloading large files.

2. Low Latency: Latency, or ping, is the time it takes for data to travel from your device to the server and back. With a wired connection, latency is usually much lower than with Wi-Fi, which means a more responsive and smooth experience—perfect for online gaming or video calls.

3. Security: Wired connections are inherently more secure than wireless ones. There’s no risk of someone intercepting your Wi-Fi signal, and you can avoid potential breaches by keeping everything physically connected.

4. Reliability: Unlike Wi-Fi, which can be affected by physical obstructions, other devices, and even your neighbour’s Wi-Fi networks, wired connections are not prone to such issues. Once you’re plugged in, you have a direct line to your internet source.

How to Set Up a Wired Connection

Infographics

Setting up a wired connection is simpler than you might think. Here’s a quick guide to get you connected:

1. Get an Ethernet Cable: First, you’ll need an Ethernet cable. These cables come in various lengths, so pick one that suits your needs. For the best performance, look for Cat5e or Cat6 cables, which support higher speeds and better reliability.

2. Connect to Your Router: Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into one of the LAN ports on the back of your router. These ports are usually labelled and often colour-coded.

3. Connect to Your Device: Plug the other end of the cable into the Ethernet port on your device. Most desktop computers, gaming consoles, and even some laptops have Ethernet ports. If your laptop doesn’t have an Ethernet port, you can use a USB-to-Ethernet adapter.

4. Check Your Connection: Once connected, your device should automatically detect the wired connection. You might see a notification on your device indicating that it’s now connected via Ethernet. If not, you can go into your network settings to ensure it’s selected as the active connection.

5. Run a Broadband Speed Test: Finally, it’s time to see the difference. Run another broadband speed test to compare your wired speeds to your previous Wi-Fi results. You’ll likely notice a significant improvement in speed, stability, and latency.

Switching to a wired connection can make a huge difference in your internet experience. Whether you’re working from home, gaming, or just want a more stable connection, plugging in directly can provide the boost you need. Give it a try and see how your broadband speed test results improve. And remember, every little tweak helps in getting the most out of your internet connection.

Next, we’ll explore how upgrading your equipment can further enhance your internet speeds.

7. Upgrade Your Equipment

Image to depict title

It just might be time to consider upgrading your equipment. Why? Just like any other technology, routers and modems can become outdated, and newer models can offer significant improvements.

When and Why to Upgrade

Infographics

First things first, how do you know it’s time to upgrade your equipment? Here are some telltale signs:

1. Age of Your Router: If your router is more than 3-4 years old, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Technology advances rapidly, and newer routers come with better speed, range, and security features.

2. Frequent Disconnections: If your internet frequently drops or your connection is unstable, your router might be struggling to keep up with your usage.

3. Slow Speeds Despite High-Speed Plan: If your broadband speed test results are consistently lower than the speeds you’re paying for, your old equipment might be the problem.

4. Multiple Devices: Modern households often have numerous devices connected to the internet simultaneously. If your router can’t efficiently handle multiple devices, upgrading to a more powerful model can help.

5. Incompatibility with New Standards: Newer routers support the latest Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6, which offers faster speeds and better performance in congested areas. If your router doesn’t support these standards, you’re not getting the best possible performance.

Recommended Equipment

Infographics

When you decide it’s time to upgrade, choosing the right equipment can make a world of difference. Here are some recommendations:

1. Modems: If you’re using a modem provided by your ISP, consider buying your own. Models like the Motorola MB7621 or the ARRIS SURFboard SB6183 are highly rated and can provide better performance and reliability.

2. Routers: Investing in a high-quality router can dramatically improve your internet experience. Look for features like dual-band or tri-band capabilities, MU-MIMO (multi-user, multiple input, multiple output) technology for handling multiple devices, and support for the latest Wi-Fi standards. Some top picks include:

Netgear Nighthawk AX12: This router supports Wi-Fi 6, offers incredible speed, and effortlessly handles multiple devices.

ASUS RT-AX88U: Another Wi-Fi 6 router, it’s known for its excellent range and robust performance.

TP-Link Archer A7: A budget-friendly option that still offers great performance and a reliable connection.

3. Mesh Networks: If you have a large home or struggle with dead spots, a mesh network might be the solution. Systems like the Eero Pro 6 or Google Nest WiFi consist of multiple units that you place around your home to ensure consistent coverage everywhere.

4. Range Extenders: If a full mesh system seems like overkill, consider a range extender. Devices like the Netgear Nighthawk X6S can help eliminate dead zones and improve coverage without replacing your entire setup.

Upgrading your equipment can seem like a big step, but it can significantly improve your internet experience. Better hardware not only enhances speed and stability but also future-proofs your network for the increasing demands of modern digital life. Once you’ve upgraded, run another broadband speed test to see the difference. 

8. Limit Bandwidth-Hogging Applications

Image to depict title

Taking a closer look at how your bandwidth is being used might just do the trick. Some applications and devices can use up or hog a lot of bandwidth, slowing down your entire network.

How To Identify Bandwidth Hogs

Infographics

First things first, you need to identify which applications and devices are using the most bandwidth. This might sound technical, but don’t worry—it’s simpler than you think!

1. Router’s Admin Panel: Most modern routers have built-in features that let you monitor network traffic. Log into your router’s admin panel (remember, you learned how to do this when updating your firmware!) and look for a section called “Traffic Monitor” or “Bandwidth Usage.” Here, you can see which devices are using the most data.

2. Network Monitoring Tools: There are several free and paid tools you can use to monitor bandwidth usage on your network. Tools like GlassWire, NetBalancer, or even the built-in Resource Monitor on Windows can help you track which applications are consuming the most bandwidth.

3. ISP Tools: Some internet service providers offer tools and apps for monitoring usage. Check your ISP’s website or app to see if they offer this feature.

Tips To Manage Your Applications and Devices

Infographics

Once you’ve identified the bandwidth hogs, it’s time to manage them. Here’s how:

1. Limit Streaming Quality: Streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu can use a ton of bandwidth, especially if you’re streaming in HD or 4K. Most of these services allow you to adjust the streaming quality. Try lowering the resolution to see if it improves your overall internet speed. You can usually find these settings in the account or playback settings of the streaming app.

2. Schedule Downloads: Large downloads and updates can slow down your network significantly. If you need to download large files, try scheduling them for times when you’re not using the internet heavily, like overnight. Many operating systems and apps allow you to schedule updates and downloads.

3. Pause Background Apps: Background applications on your devices can use bandwidth without you even realising it. Check for apps running in the background that might be syncing data, updating, or downloading files. On Windows, you can use the Task Manager to see what’s running and end tasks that aren’t necessary. On a Mac, the Activity Monitor can do the same.

4. Give Priority To Important Devices: Some routers allow you to prioritise certain devices or applications, ensuring they get the bandwidth they need. This feature is often called Quality of Service (QoS). If you’re working from home or gaming online, you can prioritise your work computer or gaming console to make sure they get the best possible connection.

5. Disconnect Unused Devices: Do you have smart devices, tablets, or other gadgets that are connected but not in use? These can still use bandwidth for background updates or syncing. Disconnect any devices that aren’t currently in use to free up bandwidth for your active devices.

6. Limit Background Updates: Many devices and applications automatically update in the background. While these updates are important, they can also hog bandwidth. Adjust your settings to limit background updates, or schedule them for times when you’re not using the internet heavily.

Identifying and managing bandwidth-hogging applications and devices can ensure that your internet speed is optimised for the activities that matter most to you. Run another broadband speed test after making these adjustments to see the difference. You’ll likely notice a significant improvement in your overall internet performance.

9. Use Quality of Service (QoS)

Image to depict title

So, you’ve run a broadband speed test, restarted your router, positioned it perfectly, updated the firmware, secured your network, tried a wired connection, upgraded your equipment, and managed bandwidth-hogging applications. But there’s another powerful tool you can use to optimise your internet performance. It’s called Quality of Service, or QoS, and it can be a game-changer.

What is Quality of Service (QoS) and How It Helps

Quality of Service, or QoS, is a feature available on many modern routers that allows you to prioritise certain types of internet traffic over others. Essentially, it lets you decide which devices and applications get the most bandwidth. This can be incredibly useful when you’re juggling multiple devices and activities, ensuring that the most important ones get the speed they need.

For instance, if you’re working from home and need a stable connection for video conferencing, but your kids are also streaming movies and playing online games, QoS can ensure that your video calls don’t get disrupted. You maintain a smooth, lag-free connection by prioritising your work computer over other devices. This is particularly useful if your broadband speed test shows that your internet speed is less than ideal when multiple devices are connected.

Setting Up QoS on Your Router

Infographics

Setting up QoS might sound technical, but it’s quite straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Access Your Router’s Admin Panel: Just like when you updated your firmware, you’ll need to log into your router’s admin panel. Open a web browser, type in your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1), and enter your username and password.

2. Find the QoS Settings: Once you’re logged in, look for the QoS settings. This might be under a section labelled “Advanced,” “Traffic Management,” or something similar. The exact location can vary depending on your router model.

3. Enable QoS: First, you’ll need to enable QoS. There should be an option to turn it on, often with a toggle switch or checkbox.

4. Set Your Priorities: Now comes the fun part—setting your priorities. You can usually prioritise by device or by application. For example, you might prioritise your work laptop, gaming console, or video streaming service. Some routers let you drag and drop devices or apps into different priority levels, such as “High,” “Medium,” or “Low.”

5. Save Your Settings: Once you’ve set your priorities, make sure to save your changes. Your router may need to reboot for the new settings to take effect.

6. Test Your Connection: After setting up QoS, run another broadband speed test to see how things have improved. You should notice better performance on the devices and applications you’ve prioritised.

Using QoS is a smart way to ensure that your most important online activities get the bandwidth they need, especially when your network is under heavy load. It’s a simple yet powerful tool that can make a big difference in your internet experience. So, give it a try and enjoy smoother, more reliable connectivity.

10. Contact Your ISP

Image to depict title

Now for the final tip. After doing everything we listed previously, you still feel like you’re not getting the internet speed you signed up for. Before you start pulling your hair out, it might be time to call your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

When Should You Contact Your ISP?

Infographics

There are several cases where contacting your ISP is a good idea:

1. Consistently Slow Speeds: If your broadband speed test consistently shows speeds significantly lower than what you’re paying for despite all your troubleshooting efforts, it’s time to reach out. ISPs have tools to check the health of your connection from their end and can identify if there’s an issue on their end affecting your service.
2. Frequent Disconnections: If your internet frequently drops out or you experience intermittent connectivity issues, this could indicate a problem with your line or equipment that your ISP needs to address.
3. Promotional Offers: Sometimes, ISPs offer promotional deals or new plans with higher speeds at competitive prices. If you’ve been a loyal customer, it’s worth asking if there are better packages available that could improve your internet experience.
4. Equipment Upgrades: If your modem or router is outdated or malfunctioning, your ISP might offer to replace it with newer equipment that could improve your speeds.

Contacting your ISP can be a good step towards resolving internet speed issues and ensuring you’re getting the best value for your money. Don’t hesitate to reach out—after all, you’re paying for a service, and it should meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to take your internet speed to the next level, start with a broadband speed test. Compare the new results with your previous tests to gauge the effectiveness of the changes you’ve made. Remember, optimising your internet connection is an ongoing process, and even small adjustments can make a big difference in your online experience. Don’t forget that Docalla is always here to provide you with the best broadband services and equipment there is.