Click to enlarge
If your internet speed seems to be dragging behind lately, try some of these correctional techniques to revitalize your connectivity.
Perform local updates
Slow speeds can be caused by a lack of updated tools.
- Internet browsers can auto-update, but that doesn’t imply that you are using the most up to date version. Check your settings to verify that you are running the most recent version of your browser, or download it directly from their website.
- The same goes for your operating system. Don’t be overly dependent on auto-updates for your software. There are various methods to go about this, depending on the OS you are using. Computers running Windows can be updated by searching “Update” in your task bar. Macs are updated through the top menu in the App Store. Linux users can update using terminal commands (varying depending on the OS).
- Routers can also get occasional firmware updates. Implementing these varies significantly, so do some research on your router company’s website for instructions for updates (if there are any available)
- Could it be your device causing the slowdown? Be sure to update your phones, tablets, and other devices you have connected to the web.
Cables and such
Old Ethernet cables can potentially slow your internet speeds to a crawl. These cables are split into categories, and are noticeably different from each other. Lifehacker has a great article explaining these differences. If possible, try switching to fiber optics. It may cost you a pretty penny, but the boost you gain from running fiber can make it worthwhile. Get in contact with your Internet Service Provider to see if this is a feasible solution for you.
Do some spring cleaning
Your computer may be caught up running background processes that suck up your bandwidth. If you are running Windows, delve into your Task Manager and kill any running processes that you know you don’t need. On A Mac, use the Activity Monitor in the Utilities folder. And once again, Linux users can check using command line prompts or loaded management programs.
If these solutions don’t seem to do enough, you may want to consider switching ISPs, or making some technical investments. Or just ask your neighbor for the WiFi password with false promises of only using it one time.
