1. Are you getting what you pay for?
Before blaming anyone, run the test above connected by cable. If you get a speed close to your plan, the problem is inside your home (Wi-Fi, devices). If you get much less over cable, the problem is your provider. Remember your plan is in Mbps, not MB/s.
2. Quick fixes (in order)
- Restart the router — turn it off for 30 seconds. Fixes most temporary slowdowns.
- Get closer to the router or use the 5 GHz band (faster, shorter range) instead of 2.4 GHz.
- Connect by Ethernet cable for gaming, video calls or remote work.
- Close background downloads and updates that saturate the connection.
- Count your devices — too many at once split the bandwidth. See how many Mbps you need.
3. Common causes of slow internet
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Slow only on Wi-Fi | Distance, interference or old router |
| Slow at peak hours (evening) | Provider network congestion |
| High ping in games | Saturated Wi-Fi or distant network route |
| Intermittent drops | Damaged cable, overheating router |
| Slow on all wired devices | Provider problem — file a complaint |
4. When to call your provider?
If, after testing over cable, you consistently get much less than your plan, save several screenshots of the test at different times and complain. That's your evidence: most contracts guarantee a minimum percentage of the advertised speed.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Wi-Fi extender fix slow internet?
Only if the problem is coverage. An extender stretches the signal but doesn't increase the speed entering your home. If speed is already low over cable, an extender won't help.
Does the browser or device matter?
Yes. An old machine, too many tabs or an outdated Wi-Fi card can limit speed even if your connection is fast. Try another device to rule it out.