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How to Fix Slow Internet Speed

✅ Quick Answer

Slow internet speed can be caused by weak Wi-Fi signal, overloaded network, outdated router, ISP throttling, or wrong DNS settings. The fastest fix is to restart the router, move closer to the router, update router firmware, and run speed test to compare results. In most cases, changing DNS and optimizing Wi-Fi channels can improve speed instantly.

❓ Why Internet Speed Becomes Slow?

Your internet speed depends on three factors: the plan you pay for, the router performance, and the device connection quality. Slow speed is usually not because of Windows but because of Wi-Fi interference, many devices using the same network, or weak signal.

Sometimes the issue is from your ISP (Internet Service Provider). They may be facing network congestion or may throttle your speed. The key is to isolate the problem by testing different devices and using wired vs wireless connection.

🔧 Fix 1: Restart Router and Modem

Restarting the router clears temporary issues and resets the network. It solves 60% of slow internet cases.

Turn off the router and modem.
Wait for 60 seconds.
Turn on the modem first.
After 2 minutes, turn on the router.
Restart your PC or phone and check speed again.

🔧 Fix 2: Check Wi-Fi Signal Strength

Weak Wi-Fi signal reduces speed drastically. If your device is far away or blocked by walls, the speed drops.

Move closer to the router.
Avoid thick walls and metal objects.
Place router at a higher position (table or shelf).
Use a Wi-Fi extender if the house is large.

🔧 Fix 3: Disconnect Unnecessary Devices

Many devices connected to the same Wi-Fi consume bandwidth. Streaming, downloading, and gaming can reduce speed for everyone.

Open your router settings (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
Check connected devices.
Disconnect devices not in use.
Enable QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize your PC or phone.

🔧 Fix 4: Change Wi-Fi Channel (Reduce Interference)

If many routers in your area use the same channel, Wi-Fi interference occurs and speed drops.

Open router settings.
Go to Wi-Fi settings.
Change channel to 1, 6, or 11 (for 2.4GHz).
For 5GHz, choose a less crowded channel.

Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to find the best channel for your area.

🔧 Fix 5: Use Wired Connection (Ethernet)

Wi-Fi is slower than wired connection due to interference and distance. If you need fast internet, use an Ethernet cable.

Connect Ethernet cable from router to PC.
Disable Wi-Fi on PC to force Ethernet.
Run speed test again.

🔧 Fix 6: Update Router Firmware

Router firmware update fixes bugs and improves performance. Many routers slow down due to outdated firmware.

Open router settings.
Find Firmware Update or System Update.
Download the latest firmware from the manufacturer website.
Install and restart the router.

🔧 Fix 7: Change DNS Server

Slow browsing is often caused by slow DNS servers. Switching to Google DNS or Cloudflare DNS improves browsing speed.

Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl and press Enter.
Right-click your Wi-Fi/Ethernet → Properties.
Select Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4) → Properties.
Select Use the following DNS server addresses.
Use: 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1 (Cloudflare).
Click OK and restart PC.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Is slow internet due to Windows or ISP?

Slow speed is usually due to ISP or Wi-Fi signal. Test speed using a wired connection to confirm. If wired speed is good, the issue is Wi-Fi or router.

How can I check my internet speed?

Use websites like Speedtest.net or Fast.com. Compare results with your subscribed plan. If speed is much lower, contact your ISP.

What is the best Wi-Fi band for speed?

5GHz band gives faster speed but shorter range. Use 5GHz for devices near the router. Use 2.4GHz for long distance and better coverage.