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5 signs your Wi-Fi needs an upgrade
Slow Wi-Fi isn't always your internet plan. These five signs point to equipment or coverage problems you can fix.
Before paying for a faster internet plan, check whether the problem is actually your Wi-Fi. These five signs usually mean it's time to upgrade the equipment or how it's set up.
1. Some rooms barely get a signal
If the bedroom, basement or back patio is always slow, the problem is coverage. One router in a corner can't reach everywhere. A mesh Wi-Fi system spreads the signal through the whole house.
2. Things slow down when everyone's home
Streaming, video calls and gaming all at once can overwhelm older routers. Newer Wi-Fi standards handle many devices at the same time much better.
3. Your router is five or more years old
Older routers may not support current Wi-Fi standards or still receive security updates. If you can't remember when you got it, it's probably time to check.
4. A wired connection is fast, but Wi-Fi is slow
Run a speed test on a computer plugged directly into the router, then on Wi-Fi in the same room. If the wired result is much faster, your internet plan is fine and the Wi-Fi is the bottleneck.
5. Smart devices keep dropping off
Doorbells, cameras and smart plugs that disconnect often are usually a sign of weak signal where they're installed.
What to do next
We test the signal in every room, fix settings and placement, and set up mesh Wi-Fi when it's actually needed. See Wi-Fi and home networking, or call or text (720) 900-1010.