Strategies to Optimize Internet Speed from Router

Following few minor modifications, my internet transitioned from exasperating to rapid.

Michael Hession/ NYT Wirecutter

Update Current Router Software

Similar to your phone or computer, your router operates on software that requires periodic upgrades. These updates are essential as they address various concerns. Software updates can include new functionalities, rectify errors, address security vulnerabilities, and enhance performance and stability. I had overlooked this step until I recognized that obsolete firmware can be the cause of intermittent disconnections and reduced speeds.

Consistently monitor and implement updates promptly upon their release. Certain modern routers update automatically, however numerous older models necessitate manual login—typically by inputting an IP address such as 192.168.1.1 in your browser. Consult your router's manual for guidance on the procedure.

Occasionally Restart the Router

Although it may appear straightforward, rebooting your router might rectify an unexpectedly high number of internet problems. Similar to how rebooting your phone can rectify numerous issues, restarting your router can similarly address transient malfunctions.

Routers may accumulate memory anomalies, background processes, and minor mistakes that can impede their performance. Restarting purges temporary memory, rejuvenates the network, and enhances the router's operational efficiency. I reboot my router anytime I encounter internet troubles to ascertain whether the fault lies with my ISP's network rather than the router itself.

It is unnecessary to restart it daily; however, performing a restart every few weeks or when your internet appears sluggish helps ensure optimal performance. Unplug the router, wait around 10 seconds, and then reconnect it. Certain routers permit the scheduling of automated reboots during off-peak hours, such as late at night, eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Limit Connected Devices

Your Wi-Fi may appear fast theoretically, but each connected device uses the same finite bandwidth, which might lead to a decrease in speed. Consider bandwidth as a singular pie; an increase in linked devices results in diminished portions for each. When an excessive number of devices attempt to stream, download, or update concurrently, each device obtains a diminished portion of the available bandwidth.

I observed that my video calls might experience slowness or disconnection when other devices were engaged in bandwidth-intensive activities. Even inactive devices might consume bandwidth for background updates and synchronization. Smart home devices, including cameras, thermostats, and voice assistants, maintain continuous internet connectivity even while not in active usage. Mobile phones and laptops execute automated upgrades or synchronize with the cloud.

When my internet becomes slow, I disconnect unused devices to optimize bandwidth for those in use. However, it is unnecessary to disconnect other devices if your router is equipped with Quality of Service (QoS) settings, which enable the prioritization of network traffic.

Remain Proximate to the Router

One of the most effective methods to attain faster and more dependable internet is to minimize the distance between your device and the router. Wi-Fi signals diminish in strength as they traverse walls, ceilings, furniture, and even human bodies. This is particularly applicable to the swifter 5GHz and 6GHz bands, which possess a more limited range compared to the 2.4GHz frequency. As distance increases, both speed and signal strength diminish.

A definitive indicator of inadequate Wi-Fi is the diminishing signal bars on your smartphone as you distance yourself from the network. In my situation, each time I enter the bedroom, the Wi-Fi signal diminishes from full bars to maybe one or two. This may appear insignificant, although it directly impacts speed, rendering even basic operations, such as conversing with pals on WhatsApp, exasperating.

For optimal performance during bandwidth-intensive activities, such as streaming, I must be in the living room or adjacent areas. This arrangement is satisfactory for me, and I am indifferent to the slight difficulty it entails, as my router is centrally positioned in the house and I infrequently utilize my phone or laptop in the bedroom.

Relocate your router from the remote home office to a more central location within the residence. If your living room is centrally located, with your bedroom and office flanking it, you should position it in the living room. If relocating the router to a more central location does not resolve the issue, I suggest utilizing a mesh Wi-Fi system such as the ASUS ZenWiFi AX6600 or Amazon eero 7.

Select the Appropriate Wi-Fi Band

Contemporary routers transmit across three distinct frequency bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz (available in newer models). Each band possesses distinct advantages, and selecting the appropriate one can significantly impact your internet speed and reliability.

The 2.4GHz band has an extended range and superior wall penetration, rendering it suitable for devices located at a distance from the router or in environments with substantial walls. Nonetheless, it is slower and more susceptible to interference due to the operation of numerous household devices—such as microwaves, baby monitors, and Bluetooth devices—within this frequency band. The 5GHz spectrum offers superior speeds and reduced interference, albeit with a diminished range. The 6GHz frequency offers superior speed and reduced congestion, leading to diminished interference.

My Wi-Fi router is dual-band, featuring one 2.4GHz band and one 5GHz band, providing flexibility based on my location within the house or my online activities. Nonetheless, I primarily connect to the 5GHz frequency due to its superior performance during streaming or content downloading.

Utilize the 5GHz band if you possess a dual-band router. Nonetheless, if your router is compatible with the 6GHz band, you may achieve superior performance by utilizing it in instead of the 5GHz band.

Utilize a Wired Connection Whenever Feasible

Although Wi-Fi offers convenience, it is not consistently the fastest or most dependable choice—particularly for gaming, 4K streaming, or substantial file uploads. I utilize an Ethernet connection whenever possible. An Ethernet connection provides a direct link from your device to the router, so reducing interference, signal degradation, and congestion commonly associated with wireless networks.

Wired connections generally provide reduced latency and a more stable connection for high-demand tasks in comparison to Wi-Fi. This can determine the distinction between seamless video calls and disrupted ones, or securing a victory vs experiencing lag at a critical moment in a match. I transitioned my smart TV to an Ethernet connection.

If your router is located in a different room, it is not mandatory to install a wire across the home. Powerline adapters or Multimedia over Coax (MoCA) kits can enhance your wired connection utilizing your home's existing electricity or coaxial wiring—no drilling necessary.

Indeed, employing Ethernet may not be practical in every situation, as not all devices are compatible with the technology. Nonetheless, for devices capable of it, like laptops, desktops, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, employing a wired configuration is transformative. For devices without an Ethernet port, one may utilize UGreen's USB to Ethernet adapter or a comparable alternative.

Rapid, dependable internet transcends mere subscription plans. Despite subscribing to gigabit speeds, interference, congestion, and inadequate configuration can markedly diminish the speeds you experience. However, with these minor modifications, you can obtain commensurate value for your expenditure. Implement these techniques, and you may be astonished by the significant enhancement in the speed of your connection.