IS YOUR INTERNET TOO SLOW?

A SLOW broadband connection can drive you nuts when you are trying to download the latest episode of your favourite TV show.

If you think you are not getting the speed you were promised when you signed up, you can check it online.

Comparison site broadbandchoices has a free speed test on its website ( broadbandchoices. co.uk/tools/speed-test).

Enter your postcode and email address and hit the test button.

If you’re not happy with your speed, there are simple steps you can take to improve it:

ASK your provider for a new router.

ENSURE you have the most up-to-date version of your browser (this is what you use to search the internet).

AVOID peak times, such as between 5pm and 10pm on a weekday, when downloading films or TV shows. When the internet is busy, providers are forced to slow down their overall speeds to provide an equal service to all customers.

CLEAR your cookies regularly. These are small files your computer downloads every time you visit a website. If you don’t delete them, it can slow down your broadband.

IF ALL else fails, switch provider. Under new rules from telecoms regulator Ofcom, you can walk away from a slow broadband contract — as long as you have given your provider a reasonable opportunity to improve your speed.