speed up a slow broadband connection
Vodafone’s head of broadband Daniel Lambrou reveals what to do if you’re struggling with patchy speeds
Start by testing your broadband speed if you think your download and upload speeds don’t match what you’re paying for, and if simply rebooting your router doesn’t help, run a speed test (broadbandspeedchecker.co.uk) to make sure. Make sure your router is plugged into the master wall socket using a short cable that isn’t old or frayed. Also ensure any landline phones are unplugged and that your computing devices are up-to-date with the latest software from the manufacturer. If your speeds still aren’t what they should be, then there is probably an issue with the line between your home and your local telephone exchange. Contact your broadband provider for help and start by requesting a line test. Your broadband provider has to provide a minimum download speed guarantee. So if your download speed falls below the guaranteed minimum on three consecutive days, and it’s not fixed within 30 days, you have the right to leave your contract. If you get a strong Wifi signal when you’re in the same room as your router, but not the further away you get from it, then the following can help.
Try freeing up your router. Many people hide their routers out of sight, especially if it has an unsightly appearance. But this can seriously hamper its wireless range. If you can, place it high up, on shelving or on top of a cabinet. This makes it more likely for the wireless signal to overcome common sources of interference such as metallic objects and those filled with water or other liquids like radiators, as well unusually thick walls. Other household electronics can also play havoc with your Wifi signal. Common culprits include cordless phones, baby monitors and microwaves. Only some of these can be adjusted to get rid of the interference, usually phones and baby monitors (not microwaves) – check their manuals to find out how. Consider replacing your router and upgrading any particularly old devices, too.
Go wired rather than wireless. It’s a little-known fact that most routers, especially older models, can only wirelessly send data to and from a handful of devices simultaneously at any given moment. If you have an especially busy household, it may be worth lightening the wireless load on your router by connecting some devices directly to your router using Ethernet cables instead of Wifi. Stationary devices such as desktop PCS, TVS, games consoles and smart speakers would be obvious candidates for cabling.