Test speed

Why Is My WiFi Slow? 12 Ways to Speed It Up

WiFi is usually slow for one of four reasons: a weak signal (too far from the router or through thick walls), interference on a crowded 2.4 GHz channel, too many devices using the connection, or an old router. Test first to see which one it is, then follow the matching fixes below.

Updated 4 min read

Step 1: Find out where the slowdown is

  1. Run the WiFi speed test right next to the router.
  2. Run it again where the WiFi feels slow.
  3. If you can, test once with an Ethernet cable plugged into the router.
  • Slow even on a cable or next to the router: the problem is your plan, modem or provider. See fixes 9–12.
  • Fast next to the router, slow elsewhere: it’s WiFi coverage. See fixes 1–5.
  • Slow only at certain times: busy devices or a congested channel. See fixes 6–8.

Not sure what speed to expect? Check what is a good internet speed.

Fix weak signal and coverage

1. Move the router

Put it high, central and in the open, not in a cupboard, behind the TV or on the floor. Walls, mirrors, metal and water (fish tanks!) all block WiFi.

2. Check your signal strength

A reading weaker than −70 dBm means slow, unreliable WiFi. Find your reading and check it with the signal strength checker; our guide on good WiFi signal strength explains the numbers.

3. Use the right band

Use 5 GHz near the router for speed, and 2.4 GHz only for distant rooms and smart gadgets. See 2.4 GHz vs 5 GHz.

4. Add a mesh system for big homes

One router rarely covers a large or multi-floor home. Mesh WiFi spreads the signal with several units. It’s better than a plug-in extender, which often halves speed.

5. Use a cable where you can

TVs, consoles and desktop PCs that don’t move should be on Ethernet. It frees up WiFi for phones and laptops.

Fix interference and congestion

6. Change the WiFi channel

In flats and dense neighbourhoods, dozens of networks can share a channel. Pick a quieter one with the best WiFi channel finder.

7. Find the bandwidth hogs

Cloud backups, game updates, 4K streams and security cameras can each take a big slice. Check the devices list on your router’s admin page and pause or schedule heavy traffic.

8. Check for bufferbloat

If speed tests look fine but everything feels laggy when the house is busy, your router may be queuing traffic. Run the bufferbloat test.

Fix the router, modem and plan

9. Restart the modem and router

Unplug both for 30 seconds, plug the modem in first, then the router. This clears memory leaks and overheating.

10. Update the firmware

Updates fix bugs and security holes and sometimes improve speed. Look under Administration or System in the router settings.

11. Replace an old router

Routers older than WiFi 5 (802.11ac) can’t keep up with modern plans. A WiFi 6 router is a big upgrade for busy homes.

12. Check your plan and provider

If a wired test is far below your plan at different times of day, the problem is upstream. Note the results and contact your provider. If it’s simply a slow plan, an upgrade is the fix.

Is someone using my WiFi?

Unknown devices in your router’s connected-devices list can slow you down and are a security risk. Change the password using a strong one from the password generator. Here’s how to change your WiFi password.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my WiFi slow on my phone but fine on my laptop?
Phones have smaller antennas and may be stuck on the 2.4 GHz band. Forget the network and reconnect to the 5 GHz one, and check for background downloads or a power-saving mode.
Why is my WiFi slow at night?
Evenings are peak time: more people stream at home and on your provider’s network. Neighbours’ WiFi is also busier. Try a different channel, and test wired to see if it’s your provider.
Does a WiFi extender increase speed?
It extends range, but most extenders cut speed roughly in half because they share the same radio for both directions. Mesh systems or a wired access point perform better.