Distance Matters

Ways to improve a slow network, part 1

While TS can’t troubleshoot your home network, there are some things you can do that might improve a seemingly slow network.

If you have already gone through the process of checking your services and devices and your home internet is still slow, there are a few more things you can check to speed up your connection.

You could be too far away from your router.

What is a router?

  • A router acts as a gateway and directs the flow of data between the devices on your network and the internet.
  • Having a router makes it possible for you to have more than one device connected to the internet.

    There are two common router types for home networks:

    • Wired Routers – Wired routers connect directly to computers via “hard-lined” or wired connections.
    • Wireless Router – Wireless routers connect directly to a modem via a cable for receiving Internet data packets

What do I need to know?

  1. Wireless routers/access points have a functional range.
  2. Wireless is less effective if the router is in a closet/cabinet or far away from your computer. See illustration below.
  3. The wireless (and wired) connections have maximum speeds
  4. You may be paying your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for more speed than you are receiving.

What can I do to help speed up my home network?

  • Test to see if your device works better when you are closer to the router.
  • Determine if can you work closer to the wireless router or move it closer to where you work.
  • If your router is located in a closed area or cabinet, if possible, find a better location.
  • Reset your router.
    While your router may look different, here’s an illustration of where to look:
    1. Locate the Reset button on the back of your router.
    2. With the router powered on, use the pointed end of a paperclip or similar object to press and hold the Reset button for 10 seconds.
    3. Wait for the router to fully reset and power back on.
    Note: Any device connected to your Wi-Fi network will be disconnected until there is a network connection.

  • Research your router to determine its maximum connection speed.

    Just a few years ago the standard was 10/100 meaning the computer and/or the router could provide up to 100 Mbps. If you are paying for a 200 Mbps and have a 10/100 router, or computer - you can only get up to 100Mbps.

    For most homes 30-50Mbps is plenty. However, at any given time you might have multiple people in your home running multiple services:

    • streaming Movies or TV
    • watching YouTube
    • on a Facetime
    • in a video conference for school
    • on a video conference or chat
    • downloading movies or large files
    • playing online video games
    • Alexa or Google Home videos or video conference
    • doorbell cameras
    • Other security system devices

    Test your internet speed to make sure your connection is fast enough for your needs. A fast way to test your internet speed at home is by using an online tools such as Speedtest.

  • Work with your provider to test to be sure you are getting the speed you are paying for.