Slowdown in network speed: the 9 most likely causes
Wi-fi slowdowns can happen for a variety of reasons. Despite its central role in almost every household, WI-FI technology is still limited and ‘vulnerable’.
Notwithstanding the considerable technological advances that routers and other devices have undergone in recent years, difficulties can still arise when it comes to obtaining a clear signal without interference.
So here are the nine main factors which pose a risk to the ‘health’ of a WI-FI network, along with the suggested solutions and minor adjustments required in order to make the connection more stable.
1)Too many devices connected to out-of-date routers
One of the most common causes of WI-FI slowdowns is an excessive number of devices connected at the same time. In the past in fact, routers were designed to cope with just a few computers and a couple of laptops.
Nowadays however, there is a much larger number of devices requiring connection to the domestic WI-FI, such as a Smart TV, smartphones, tablets and various devices used in smart home networks. The load soon becomes too great for an old router, risking a loss of speed or even constant connection instability. The most efficient solution is to invest in a more recent model of router.
2) Poor WI-FI signal coverage
The coverage of the WI-FI signal depends on the router’s transmission range and the presence of any potential obstacles (walls, floors etc.). Positioning the router in a strategic spot is a good way to ensure sufficient signal coverage throughout the building and thereby improve the general performance of the wireless connection.
In the case of homes built on more than one floor or with particularly large distances between the device and the router, it is possible to use WI-FI signal repeaters or amplifiers in order to extend the range beyond the device’s normal limits.
3) WI-FI slowdown due to interference
Interference caused by the presence of other WI-FI networks (such as those belonging to neighbours), may cause considerable slowdowns. In that case, it is advisable to change transmission channel or use a 5GHz network (now available on all the latest routers).
4) WI-FI is slower than a cable network
WI-FI tends to be slower and less reliable (in terms of stability) compared to a cable network. If you are trying to connect a desktop PC which must remain in loco, it is better to opt for an Ethernet cable.
5) Incorrect router configurations
The WI-FI signal parameters are automatically set by the router. However, it is possible that incorrect settings may cause network slowdowns. It is important to check carefully that all configurations are made on an ad hoc basis so as to eliminate any potential malfunction.
6) Out-of-date cables
WI-FI network slowdowns can also be caused by obsolete cabling. Despite the fact that the technology is wireless, the router must still be physically connected to a modem, unless it has an inbuilt one. This cable must be in good condition, as should the telephone apparatus.
7) Speed limited by the network interface card
On a PC, it is the network interface card whose purpose it is to receive the WI-FI signal. In some cases, however, older interface card models have a very limited speed and can therefore slow down the whole network. It is important to check that the router and network interface card have the same transmission protocols (the most common are IEEE 802.11n or IEEE 802.11ac).
8) WI-FI slowdown caused by DNS
DNS servers act like a sort of telephone directory which facilitates the connection between the IP address and the URL entered by the user. Each service provider usually supplies their own DNS; but should they be slow, it is possible to choose one from a free operator (eg Open DNA) in order to speed up the connection.
9) Network slowdowns unrelated to the user
Some WI-FI slowdowns can be caused by factors outside the user’s control. Telephone companies, for example, are able to deliberately limit the available bandwidth if the lines become overloaded, as may happen at certain times of day.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
