How to Maximize your Internet Speed

How do I improve the speed of my Internet?

Understanding your internet speed and what it means can help you get the most out of your internet connection. Watch our short videos to help you choose the right internet speed for the way you use the internet and make the most of your speed by optimizing your system.

How to Choose the Right Internet Speed 

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How to Maximize your Internet Speed 

If certain websites are taking longer to load than they usually do, try a few of these steps to maximize your connection.
Click here to test the speed of your current connection.

1. Reset your network.
   Sometimes modems pick up interference from nearby networks. To fix this, reboot the modem. The modem is setup to detect interference, and restarting the modem can cause the device to use a less congested wireless signal which could improve performance.
   Use the power buttons on your devices to turn them off, or unplug the power cables; wait 30 seconds, and then plug them back in.
2. Check that there aren't conflicting signals.
   IF you're using a wireless router, make sure its signal isn't conflicting with a cordless phone in your home or a wireless camera. If the GHz on your router (usually 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz) match the GHz on your phone, your connection might be slower when the phone is in use. Try unplugging the phone base and remove the handset battery. Now, see if your wireless network connection is stable.
   
   Many other common household devices can interfere with the strength of your wireless connection.
   Examples: cell phones, Bluetooth devices, televisions, dimmer switches, fans, fluorescent lights, copy machines, microwaves, treadmills, wireless surveillance systems, wireless speakers, wireless baby monitors, motion detector lights, garage door openers.
   
   Try turning off (and unplugging) electronic devices in your home. If that solves the problem (but you still need to use the devices), try moving your modem so it and the other devices aren't in the same line of sight. In some cases, you may need to separate devices by as much as 5 to 10 feet before you see consistent improvement.
3. Check the other devices on your network.
   If other people on your network are downloading or streaming media from the internet, it's probably bogging down your connection. Try turning off other devices to improve the speed of your connection.
4. Place your wireless router or computer in a different area.
   If you're using a wireless router, a weak signal can cause lower speeds and spotty connections. Try to place your router as close to your computer as possible, or place your computer so that it is closer to the router. Ensure that the router is in a high, open space and not locked away in a cabinet. Also, be sure your router and modem are clean of dust and properly ventilated.
   
   Click here to learn more about optimal modem placement.
5. Check your filters.
   If you're on a DSL connection, you should have hooked the line from your phone jack into one side of a box filter. On the other side of the filter, you should have two lines coming out: one for your phone and one for your modem. Make sure you have high-quality filters in place for the best signal speed.