Troubleshooting slow internet speeds
Summary
This guide helps you troubleshoot and resolve: Troubleshooting slow internet speeds. Follow the steps below to fix the issue.
Common Causes
Troubleshooting Slow Internet Speeds - Windows 11
Quick Checks to Do First
1. Test your speed - visit speedtest.net and note the result
2. Restart your router - unplug for 30 seconds, plug back in
3. Check if it's just one device - test on your phone
4. Check for downloads - is something downloading in the background?
Detailed Solutions
Step 1: Test Your Internet Speed
1. Open your browser and go to https://speedtest.net
2. Click Go or Start
3. Note the download and upload speeds
4. Compare to what you're paying for (e.g., 100 Mbps)
Step 2: Restart Your Router/Modem
This fixes most speed issues:
1. Unplug the power cable
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug it back in
4. Wait 2-3 minutes for it to fully restart
5. Test your speed again
Step 3: Check for Bandwidth Hogs
1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
2. Click Network tab
3. See which apps are using the most data
4. Close or pause heavy downloads/updates
Step 4: Check Wi-Fi Signal (If Wireless)
1. Look at the Wi-Fi icon in your taskbar
2. How many bars do you have? (4 is best)
3. Move closer to your router
4. Or try a wired connection (ethernet cable)
Step 5: Update Network Drivers
1. Press Win + X > Device Manager
2. Expand Network adapters
3. Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter > Update driver
4. Do the same for Ethernet if present
Step 6: Change Wi-Fi Channel (Advanced)
If you have many neighbors on the same channel:
1. Access your router settings (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1)
2. Look for Wi-Fi settings
3. Change channel from Auto to 1, 6, or 11
4. Test speeds on each
Step 7: Reset Network
1. Press Win + I > Network & internet > Advanced network settings
2. Click Network reset
3. Follow the prompts
4. Restart your PC
When to Call Your ISP
- Speed is much lower than what you pay for
- Multiple devices have slow speeds
- Restarting router doesn't help
- You see error lights on your modem