Slow WiFi is rarely "just how it is." In most homes, the cause is one of a few predictable problems — and you can fix the majority without calling your provider. Work through this list from top to bottom.
1. Bad router placement
Routers shoved in a corner, inside a cabinet, or on the floor lose a huge amount of signal. Put yours high, central, and out in the open. Even moving it a metre can transform coverage.
2. Too many devices, too little router
An older router struggles when phones, TVs, consoles and smart devices all pile on. If your router is more than ~5 years old, an upgrade often does more than any tweak.
3. Interference from neighbours
If you live in a flat, dozens of nearby networks may be fighting over the same channel. Switching channels (or using the 5GHz band for nearby devices) can clear the traffic jam.
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4. The "reboot once a week" trap
If you constantly need to restart the router, that's a symptom of overheating, outdated firmware, or an overloaded device — not a normal routine. Update the firmware and keep the router ventilated.
5. Distance and walls
Thick walls, mirrors and metal kill signal. For far rooms, a mesh system or a wired access point beats hoping a single router reaches everywhere.
6. Background hogs
Big downloads, cloud backups and 4K streams eat bandwidth. Schedule heavy tasks for off-hours.
7. Old firmware
Manufacturers patch speed and security bugs regularly. Log into your router and check for updates — many now do this automatically if enabled.
8. 2.4GHz vs 5GHz
2.4GHz travels far but is slow and crowded; 5GHz is fast but shorter-range. Put nearby devices on 5GHz and distant ones on 2.4GHz.
9. Your plan itself
If you've optimised everything and still crawl, your subscribed speed may simply be too low for your household. Check what you're paying for.
Find your weak spot in 90 seconds
Not sure which of these is your problem? The WiFi Router Health Score asks six quick questions and points you straight at the most likely fix.
WiFi Router Health Score
Answer 6 quick questions to get a 0–100 WiFi router health score with practical fixes for slow speed, weak signal and disconnections.