Today we stay connected with the world because of the internet. But there comes a time when internet speed may slow down.  You might not get satisfying internet speed, impairing your tasks miserably. There could be several reasons including, many connected devices, older hardware, interference in wireless signals, etc. Amid this, how to increase internet speed on the laptop?

Looking for ways to deal with this first-world problem, then we got your back. Hereby, enlisting some of the paramount ways to boost the internet speed.

Ways to increase internet speed

1. Move closer towards the router

Moving a bit closer to the router is one of the pivotal ways to speed up the internet connection. The farther your Wi-Fi router from your laptop, the slower your internet becomes. Besides, thick concrete walls make it worse for signals to pass through; of course, there are exceptions wherein some routers boast exhilarating signal strength. But ensure to have a router supporting the latest Wi-Fi standards.

2.  Opt for Ethernet connection

 If you are facing a problem of unstable connection with Wi-Fi, you may choose to buy a new router. Else, if you do not wish to invest, you could use a wired connection by affixing a laptop or PC with an Ethernet cable. For this, it is imperative to have an RJ45 port, also known as an Ethernet port. It is proven to deliver lightning-fast speed. Unfortunately, several modern laptops lack this port, but an intermediary like a network adapter comes in handy. If not cable, you can always connect to a network adapter to enjoy seamless connectivity and unravel the performance of an Ethernet port.

3.  Disconnect unused devices on the network

Several times, unused devices consume a marginal amount of data, especially when you have multiple gaming consoles, smartphones, smart TVs, and so on. All these devices may pull down your bandwidth considerably. When you think they are sitting idle, actually they are not. They continue to consume data to install system updates, or to update various apps. Nevertheless, try shutting down some of the idle devices and see the difference. They might free up some bandwidth and help in solving buffering issues.

4. Rebooting of the router

Whenever any of your devices start acting sluggish, what we usually do – reboot it! Similarly, when your router stops responding or exhibits slow speed, the best way is to reboot it. When you reboot, it clears the memory cache, averts unnecessary background processes, and boosts the laptop speed. Besides, after the restart, it connects to various data channels, especially the less-crowded ones.

5. Setup security parameter

If you are using an unsecured connection, then you are caught in a vicious circle. In an unsecured Wi-Fi connection, there are chances of unknown devices getting connected to the router. It might not be intentional, but who doesn’t like free Wi-Fi? Besides, many devices by default connect to available and open Wi-Fi connections because their phone settings are synchronized likewise.

Instead of falling in this unsecured perimeter, put up a secured periphery. Once done, browse through your connection log and evaluate who else is using your connection. If your router has a setting of blocking the individual, do it right away else change the router password.

6. Check for firmware updates

For smooth functioning, every device has to undergo timely updates. The thumb rule applies to the router as well! They have their own set of software requirements, which needs attention. Along with this, consider updating your laptop operating system to avoid any incompatibility issues.

7.  Scan the system for malicious intrusion

Viruses, Trojans, are some of the spoilsports constantly finding ways to wreak havoc in your productivity. One of their primary roles is to pull down bandwidth, especially while uploading or downloading malicious code. To curtail this scenario, it’s best to have a good anti-virus installed on your laptop, which scans your machine thoroughly.

8. Block online ads

Almost every website displays advertisements with endless pictures, videos, and GIFs. Did you know these ad-media slows down your internet connection? Therefore, to retain internet speed, the best way is to block them. Nevertheless, if you like watching them, you will have to compromise with the speed. Besides, if speed holds more priority, try installing an ad-blocking plugin to put an end to auto-play videos that consume data. It will give some room for your internet connection.

On a parting note

We acknowledge the fact that slow internet speed is a major hurdle in the way of productivity. Instead, try implementing these tips and see the difference. And if all these tips fail, we advise you to catch hold of your internet service provider to tackle technical difficulties. After all, life without the internet can get messy!