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Many people think that slow Internet speed has something to do with their broadband provider. While this may be true, a lot of other things could be slowing your Internet speed. These could range from your computer settings to hardware and other simple factors.
We have rounded up five hacks you can use to get the most out of your Internet subscription.
Test Your Internet Speed
Before trying anything to speed up your Internet connection, understand the Internet speed you are supposed to be getting from your Internet service provider (sometimes simply referred to as your ISP). Internet Services Malta or Internet Services subscriptions will often range from around 5 Mbps up to 100 Mbps.
Therefore, you need to check whether the Internet speed you are getting coincides with what you are paying for. However, before you run a speed test, turn off all data-intensive activities. Pause pending downloads, online games, and streaming videos. These items can slow down your Internet speed.
To run your test, use Speedtest.net, fast.com, or another free Internet speed testing website.
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Check Your Router
Lots of things can block your router’s radio signals. When they do, the strength of your WiFi signal will plummet—and so will your Internet speed. What’s more, it could be anything, from walls to doors to furniture. It could even be interference from a baby monitor.
So the first thing you should do is try to find a better spot for your router. This is especially true if your router is located behind objects or at the corner of your house.
You can also try rebooting your router. This can help clear memory or other background processes which can make your router run slower. Keep in mind that your ISP will probably set routers to their specifications. Therefore, you might need to confer with your ISP.
Alternatively, you can increase your Internet speed by changing the wireless channel on your router. This is especially true if you live in an urban area.
Secure Your WiFi
If you are using an unsecured connection, chances are that some of your neighbors could be hopping onto your WiFi connection. This could be unintentional, of course. However, either way, they are slowing your Internet speed. Therefore, double check your security features and secure your Internet.
To do that:
- Open up the router settings by entering your IP address into your web browser window.
- Log in with the admin user name and password that should be printed somewhere on your router. Check with your ISP if you can’t find it.
- Once you’ve opened up the settings, change your password. Or set a password, if you have never done that.
Remember, the more connections your WiFi has, the more likely your Internet speed will be slow. Therefore, you might need to disconnect mobile phones, computers other than the one you’re using, smart appliances, printers, and other devices that are using your WiFi connection.
Used a Wired Connection
Using Ethernet allows you to experience faster Internet speed. You can thereby save bandwidth on your WiFi for other devices. To use Ethernet, connect your computer to the Internet directly by using an Ethernet cord that you plug into your modem, bypassing your wireless router entirely.
Clean and Update Your Computer
Dust and grime on your computer, your router, or your modem could be causing your slow Internet connection. Therefore, some simple cleaning might be in order.
On the other hand, older hardware might not be compatible with newer standards in the industry. Therefore, if your router is five years old or even older, consider purchasing a new one.
The same goes for your computer. However, this might not be an option because of the cost. If this is the case for you, try updating your PC and its processor with a network card.
Another thing to check for are multiple apps on your computer. That’s because too many apps running at once could be slowing your Internet speed down. Therefore, check your task manager and turn off any apps that you don’t use often.
Employ These Hacks and Enjoy Faster Internet Speed
Internet speed is an incredibly complex subject. There are lots of other methods you can try as well as these. However, the hacks we have shared here will generally speed your Internet connection up for you. No longer must you tolerate slow Internet speed and unnecessary interruptions. What’s more, you can try these hacks yourself and avoid having to call your Internet service provider.
