How to improve your internet speed

Improving your internet speed and stay connected - hints, tips and tricks.

Most businesses regularly need the internet – but if you use it while you are at home or on the go, you may have found going online outside the office isn’t always as fast as it should be.

Today’s households usually contain a variety of devices that connect to the internet – from multiple laptops to smart TVs. Factor in your work’s bandwidth demands on top of that, and the result is slower download speeds and choppy video calls. Not only does this dampen productivity and efficiency, but a slow connection can leave employees feeling stressed and frustrated. In short, to avoid business interruption, you need reliable internet.

But don’t worry – there are a few simple ways to boost your internet speed and even extend your connection so that you can work on the go.

Quick and easy tips

To speed up your broadband connection, there are a number of quick fixes that, when implemented together, can make a huge difference:

Switch off your other devices

You’d be surprised how many of your household devices are passively using your WiFi – whether it be your Amazon Echo streaming the radio, your computer downloading a Netflix show, or your phone installing a software update. In some households, you can even boil a kettle or turn on a microwave with your phone! Be aware of what’s using your bandwidth, and try to schedule bigger downloads at night.

Move devices away from your routers

Did you know having multiple connected devices close to each other will affect their speeds? Try moving these devices away from your router. Elevating your router can also help, so if you can, try placing it on a tabletop or cupboard. Sometimes your WiFi can seem terrible in certain parts of the house or office for no good reason – try using a plug-in booster to improve your signal.

Switch to a wired connection

Nothing beats Ethernet for a stable connection. If WiFi is causing you problems, Ethernet cables are relatively cheap and can make all the difference to your broadband speed. Also, take a look at how your router is plugged into your phone socket; did you know extension leads or even tangled cables can slow your internet down?

Change how you call

Calls use a lot of data, but there are some simple things you can do to reduce demand. For example, video uses more data than audio. If possible, switch off your webcam. Even better, don’t rely on the internet at all and switch to your mobile/landline. Use all the options that are available to you.

Extending beyond your home

Of course, there may be times when you want to work outside your home.

This can easily be done through a portable wireless router – for example, our own Gigacube. This is a flexible alternative to broadband that transforms 4G and 5G networks into WiFi, enabling you to connect your devices in seconds and work on the go. Using wireless routers can be a game changer, providing great coverage* and giving you more flexibility in where you work.

Slow broadband isn’t just frustrating – it can be a real blocker of productivity. But before taking further action, be sure to try the above tips to see if they make an impact. And if all else fails, try simply rebooting your router – WiFi channels can get congested, but a reboot can help your router find the clearest channel and speed up your internet again.

*Subject to network availability in your area.