Why Is My Wi-Fi Slow? 8 Fixes That Work

Slow Wi-Fi is rarely caused by your internet plan alone. First run the NetQ speed test, ideally next to the router, then again in the room where it feels slow. If the numbers are very different, the problem is your Wi-Fi, not your provider.

8 things to try

1. Restart the router. Unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.
2. Move closer. Walls, floors and metal weaken the signal.
3. Place the router high and central, away from microwaves and cordless phones.
4. Use the 5 GHz band for faster speeds at short range; 2.4 GHz reaches farther but is slower.
5. Disconnect unused devices. Many devices share the same bandwidth.
6. Pause big downloads, updates and cloud backups while you work or play.
7. Change the Wi-Fi channel in the router settings if neighbors' networks interfere.
8. Use a cable. Ethernet is faster and more stable than Wi-Fi.

Still slow?

If the speed is low even with a cable, the issue is likely your plan or provider. Compare your result with the speed you pay for, and contact your provider if it is far below. Also check ping and jitter, since high values cause lag even when speed looks fine.

More guides

How much internet speed do I need?
What is ping and jitter?
Why is my Wi-Fi slow?