Does router affect internet speed
Author: e | 2025-04-24
Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here
Does A Router Affect Internet Speed?
Will a new router help my Internet speed?Are you tired of slow internet speeds and frustrated with the constant buffering and lag? If you’re wondering whether a new router can improve your internet speed, the answer is yes – but it’s not always a straightforward solution. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how a new router can impact your internet speed and what you can expect.Understanding Your Current Internet SpeedBefore we dive into the world of routers, it’s essential to understand your current internet speed. You can check your internet speed using online speed tests, such as Speedtest.net or Fast.com. These tests will give you an idea of your upload and download speeds, as well as the latency (ping) of your connection.How Routers Affect Internet SpeedRouters play a crucial role in delivering internet speed to your devices. A router’s primary function is to connect your devices to the internet by forwarding data packets between them. The speed at which your router can process these data packets can significantly impact your internet speed.Types of Routers and Their Impact on SpeedThere are several types of routers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the most common types of routers and their impact on internet speed:Wired Routers: Wired routers are the most common type of router and are connected to your devices via Ethernet cables. They provide a stable and fast connection, with speeds of up to 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps).Wireless Routers: Wireless routers, also known as Wi-Fi routers, transmit data wirelessly to your devices. They can be affected by interference from other devices, walls, and furniture, which can slow down your internet speed. Wireless routers typically have speeds of up to 450 Mbps (megabits per second).Mesh Routers: Mesh routers are a type of wireless router that uses multiple access points to create a network. They provide a strong and reliable connection, with speeds of up to 1200 Mbps (megabits per second).Gaming Routers: Gaming routers are designed specifically for gamers and prioritize low latency and fast speeds. They typically have speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps (2500 Mbps).Will a New Router Help Your Internet Speed?So, will a new router help your internet speed? The answer is yes, but it depends on several factors:Old Router: If you’re using an old router, it may not be able to handle the speed of your internet connection. Upgrading to a new router can significantly improve your internet speed.Distance: If you’re using a wireless router, the distance between the router and your devices can impact your internet speed. A new router with a stronger signal can help improve your speed.Interference: If you’re experiencing interference from other devices, a new router with a better antenna design or mesh technology can help reduce interference and improve your internet speed.Internet Speed: If you’re not getting the speed you’re paying for, a new router can help optimize your internet speed. However, if your internet speed is capped or limited by your internet service provider (ISP),
Does a Router Affect Internet Speed?
One computer here has become very slow opening web pages. Cable modem, SMC router, several XP computers. Internet security software installed, running, and up to date. All Microsoft patches in place. Computers have been reliable until this. A couple of months ago one computer became much slower dealing with web pages, sometimes more than a minute to open a page. It looks like this might possibly be DNS resolution, but I cannot be certain. Other computers here do not show this. DNS addresses, etc. are the same on each computer. Computers and router and modem rebooted. No change. Help desk for the internet security software did a complete uninstall and reinstall and finally a new version. No change. Multiple scans done looking for any infections. Nothing found. Tried other reputable spyware scanners. Nothing found. Tried running the little executable from Microsoft to repair the net stack, I think. No change. Tried other browsers. IE8, Opera 10, Comodo Dragon all show the same very slow behavior on opening each page and item on the page. Tried speed test web pages and once the transfer starts the speed is not slow.So from all this I think I've eliminated possible causes outside this one computer.Is there a way I can track down and fix this with the minimum amount of ripping things up and making changes?Thank you September 6th, 2010 11:49pm Have you tried clearing the DNS cache on the machine?Go to a command prompt and type "IPCONFIG /FLUSHDNS" see if that helps.If you disable, temporarily as a test, the Internet security software does that affect the speed? Which Internet security software are you running?How is the performance of the machine otherwise? Other apps run normally? How much RAM does it have? How much free disk space?Anything here useful: ?-B- Author: The Lawyer'sDoes a router or modem affect internet speed?
People overlook.Make sure your Wi-Fi is protected with a strong password and WPA3 security protocol. If you’ve noticed your internet slowing down for no clear reason, it’s worth checking if unauthorized devices are connected to your network. A secure network means faster speeds and fewer headaches!Troubleshooting Wi-Fi Speed IssuesNow that we’ve covered the main issues that affect Wi-Fi speed, let’s get to the good part: fixing them. Here are a few easy troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and resolve your Wi-Fi problems.1. Restart Your RouterIt may sound simple, but sometimes all your router needs is a fresh start. A quick reboot can resolve temporary glitches that are causing slow Wi-Fi speeds. Try turning off your router for 30 seconds and then powering it back on. You’d be surprised how often this solves the problem.2. Test Your Internet SpeedBefore diving into advanced fixes, it’s a good idea to run a speed test. This will give you a clear picture of your current Wi-Fi speed and whether it matches your internet plan. If your speeds are consistently lower than what you’re paying for, there may be deeper Wi-Fi speed issues that need addressing.3. Move Closer to the RouterIf you’re experiencing slow speeds on a specific device, try moving closer to the router to see if that improves your connection. Wi-Fi signals weaken over long distances, especially through walls or furniture. If moving helps, you might want to consider optimizing your router placement or investing in a mesh network.4. Check for Router Firmware UpdatesJust like your phone or computer, your router needs regular updates to stay in top shape. Manufacturers release firmware updates that can improve your router’s performance, patch security vulnerabilities, and sometimes even boost speed. If you’re experiencing Wi-Fi speed issues, checking for firmware updates might be a quick fix.Log into your router’s settings (you’ll find instructions on the back of most routers) and see if there’s a firmware update available. This small step can often resolve persistent Wi-Fi speed problems without any additional costs.5. Upgrade Your EquipmentIf none of the troubleshooting steps seem to work, it might be. Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. HereDoes A Router Affect Internet Speed? (Explained)
Jitter can cause you to lose a game, making your gaming skill completely irrelevant.How can you fix jitter? The main cause of jitter is the difference in the average latency time of your packets. So, you can fix your jitter by lowering your latency and more. To resolve this, you should strongly consider using a wired internet connection if you’re not already. This is highly advisable when you are into online gaming rather than using a wireless connection. A wired connection will prevent fluctuations and lost packets which can significantly improve and lower your latency.Next is to use a high-speed internet connection. Lower internet speed may cause jitter or latency flux, especially when you're sharing it with other people or other devices. You may try and switch to fiber connections, or even just upgrade your connection and increase your bandwidth. Doing so can transform your gaming into smooth, no-jitter gameplay.Another step is to use a powerful router. Your router is the heart of your internet connection, so you’ll want to invest in the best here. Maybe your router has been there for ages, and it's not working well for your needs anymore. Look for a powerful router that is fit for your gaming needs. Do some research and check reviews to verify the quality of the router. Make sure that the bandwidth capacity is high enough to handle the traffic your household produces.We suggest finding a router with wtfast built-in. This way, your router can handle all the complexity of finding the best route across the thousands and thousands of potential different connection routes available in wtfast. Our friends at ASUS offer dedicated gaming routers with wtfast built-in, giving you peace of mind for gaming without headache. If you're still experiencing jitter and aren’t ready to upgrade your router, you can boost your game by simply using gaming software that offers the network optimisation solution for you. That software is wtfast! wtfast uses a custom business-grade network infrastructure that is perfect for your gaming needs. Our optimization services will provide you with a more reliable and responsive connection which can help you reduce jitter and improve your network stability. What is rubberbanding, and how does it affect my Goonzu Online experience? Rubberbanding is one of the major problems most gamers encounter when playing online games. This is extremely annoying, especially with Goonzu Online and online games with fast-paced ‘twitch’ mechanics.Does Router Affect The Internet Speed? Here’s The
Recommend replacing your Wi-Fi router every three to five years to ensure optimal performance. These are some key signs your Wi-Fi router is outdated and may need to be replaced:Firmware updates have stopped: Manufacturers eventually discontinue firmware updates for older routers, which can negatively impact router security and performance.Overheating: While some warmth is normal, a router that feels hot to the touch could signal that the internal components are overheating, affecting your connection.Frequent disconnections: If your devices randomly disconnect from Wi-Fi and disrupt your connection, you may need a newer router.Random rebooting: Frequent, unexpected reboots are another sign of an outdated router. 6. ISP throttling ISP throttling is when your internet service provider (ISP) deliberately slows your internet speed to manage total network bandwidth usage. ISP providers do this for various reasons, including to regulate traffic, enforce data caps, and deal with network congestion. In lots of cases, ISP throttling isn’t noticeable. However, at times, you may experience performance issues like buffering and lagging when your network is being throttled. 7. Background apps Apps or programs left running in the background can affect network performance even when you’re not actively using them. These apps continue to execute processes — like receiving notifications, installing software updates, or tracking location — even while not in use. This can use up bandwidth and slow your internet speed. 8. Insufficient internet speed If your internet plan’s guaranteed speed isn’t fast enough for your online activities, you may experience performance issues, especially during data-intensive tasks such as streaming or gaming. Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). The most popular fiber internet speed in 2024 was 200 Mbps, which should theoretically allow for heavy usage on simultaneous devices. However, the ideal speed for you depends on how many users are on the network, the total number of connected devices, and what the network is used for. Chart explaining what internet speed you need. 9. Malware or viruses If you’re experiencing persistently slow internet, it might be a sign of malware or viruses on your connected devices. These malicious programs often consume a significantHow Does a Router Affect Internet Speed? - Internet
High-speed demands, and they can easily become one of the main issues that affect Wi-Fi speed.The fix? Consider upgrading to a more modern router or modem that supports the latest Wi-Fi standards. This alone can significantly improve your connection speed and ensure you’re getting the most out of your internet plan.4. Bandwidth OverloadIn today’s connected homes, we often have multiple devices competing for bandwidth—streaming shows, gaming, video chatting, and working all at once. Too many devices online at the same time can lead to serious Wi-Fi speed issues. It’s like trying to cram a bunch of cars into a one-lane road—everything just slows down.To fix this, try limiting how many devices are using the internet at once, especially during high-traffic activities like video calls or streaming. You can also explore router settings like Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize specific activities, ensuring smoother connections for what matters most.5. Internet Service Provider (ISP) ThrottlingSometimes, the problem isn’t inside your home—it’s your internet provider. Some ISPs limit, or “throttle,” your internet speed, especially during peak usage times or when you’ve hit certain data limits. If your connection slows down during the same times every day, throttling could be behind your Wi-Fi speed problems.6. Router Settings and ConfigurationSometimes, the solution to your Wi-Fi speed issues is sitting right in your router’s settings. Routers come with a variety of configuration options that can significantly impact performance. Outdated settings, incorrect Wi-Fi bands, or misconfigured security protocols could all slow down your connection.For example, if your router is still using the 2.4 GHz band, switching to the faster 5 GHz band could make a huge difference. Also, make sure your router’s firmware is up-to-date, as manufacturers often release updates that improve performance and security. By tweaking your router settings, you can often boost your Wi-Fi speed without needing to buy any new equipment.7. Security ProblemsAn unsecured network can attract unwanted users. If your network isn’t properly protected, neighbors or even strangers could be piggybacking on your connection, eating up your bandwidth and slowing everything down. This is a hidden cause of Wi-Fi speed problems that manyDoes Distance From the Router Affect Internet speed?
Your NETGEAR router is designed to provide industry-leading performance. If your Internet connection seems slow when you're connected to your NETGEAR router, you can troubleshoot your connection to find out why your speeds are below your expectations.To troubleshoot your slow Internet connection when connected to your NETGEAR router, try the following:Update your router firmwareNETGEAR frequently releases firmware updates to improve router performance. Before performing additional troubleshooting, make sure that your router has the newest firmware version installed. For more information, see the following articles: What is firmware and why should I update it? How do I check for new firmware and update my Nighthawk router?Power cycle your equipmentWhenever you experience network problems, we recommend that you power cycle (restart) your modem and your router. Power cycling your equipment might be all that’s needed to resolve your network problems. For more information, see the following articles: How do I power cycle my home network? How do I power cycle or reboot my NETGEAR router?Test your Internet speeds on multiple devicesTo see if your entire network is experiencing slow speeds, run an Internet speed test on multiple devices that are connected to your NETGEAR router. If your Internet speed is fast on some devices but slow on others, you might want to troubleshoot the slow devices, or check to see if they support the same speeds as your router. For more information, see How do I check my Internet speed?Try connecting via EthernetIf you are experiencing slow speeds over WiFi, try connecting your device to your router with an Ethernet cable, and run another speed test. If your speeds are faster when connected via Ethernet, you might have a WiFi interference problem, or your device might use an older WiFi standard than your router. For more information, see What factors can affect my WiFi performance?Change your wireless channelsIf your speeds are worse over WiFi, and you think the problem might be wireless interference, you can manually change the wireless channels that your router uses. For more information, see the following articles: What do I need to know before selecting a different wireless channel? How do I change the wireless channel on my NETGEAR router?Connect directly to your modem or gatewayIf you still can't determine why your Internet connection is slow, unplug your router and use an Ethernet cable to connect a computer directly to your modem or gateway. After your computer is connected, run a speed test. If your speeds are still below your expectations, you might be experiencing a problem with your Internet service provider (ISP) or the service line entering your home. Contact your ISP to continue troubleshooting.For more information: How do I troubleshoot my wireless network? How do I. Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here
Does A Router Affect Internet Speed? - All West
Amount of bandwidth as they transmit data, potentially causing noticeably slower speeds. If your router has malware, it can affect the internet speed of all connected devices. To check if your router may be infected, log in to your router’s administrative interface and review the list of connected devices. If you notice any unfamiliar device names, disconnect them from your network immediately. 10. Damaged hardware or cables Faulty hardware, cables, or other equipment can impact your internet speed. For example, a bent or frayed Ethernet cable can disrupt your connection, while a damaged modem or router may hamper network performance. 11. Outdated devices Outdated devices actively using your network can slow down internet speeds for other connected devices. While they don’t take up more bandwidth, older devices may struggle to handle modern internet speeds and create a bottleneck. How to increase internet speed In addition to troubleshooting specific issues, there are other ways to boost your internet speed by optimizing both your router and the devices connected to your network. Here’s what you can do: 1. Disconnect devices you’re not using Disconnect from your network devices that you’re not currently using, especially those running background apps. This prevents unnecessary bandwidth consumption, allowing faster speeds for the devices in use. 2. Use an Ethernet cable If your Wi-Fi is slow, plug your device directly into the router using an Ethernet cable. A wired connection typically offers faster speeds since it removes any interference caused by wireless signal transmission. Use a short, high-quality cable for the best performance. While an Ethernet cable is beneficial for stationary devices like computers and game consoles, it won’t solve connectivity issues for mobile devices like phones. 3. Set up a guest network for visitors Creating a guest network allows you to manage bandwidth to ensure your primary devices maintain optimal performance. It also helps secure your Wi-Fi and limits how many devices use your main password, boosting your network and device security. 4. Restart your router Sometimes, restarting your router is all you need to get your internet running smoothly again. While it doesn’t directly increaseDoes a router or modem affect internet speed? - Astound
Than by someone wearing stilettos.If the same force is applied to two areas, a smaller and a larger one, the pressure would be greater for the smaller area. Pressure is defined as force per unit of area. In other instances, your internet speed can fluctuate depending on peak usage hours. If there are walls or other obstructions between your router and the device you're using, this could cause your internet speed to fall. Moving away from your router can further hinder your speeds. Wi-Fi will almost always be slower than an Ethernet connection. There are a few things possibly affecting your speeds, but using a Wi-Fi connection is the most likely cause of tested speeds that are lower than the speeds your ISP runs to the home. Keep those times in mind - they are ideal for scheduling downloads of large files such as video games or movies. Try running a few speed tests throughout the day for an idea of when your connection is at its peak performance. Test at different times of the day. Depending on your internet connection type, peak usage times (typically weeknight evenings when many are streaming their entertainment) can hinder your speeds.If speeds are drastically different between devices, you may need to adjust device or router settings to improve performance across all devices. Run a speed test on your computer, your phone, your smart TV, gaming console, etc. Try running a few speed tests at varying distances from the router, and perhaps other rooms or floors of your home, to get a gauge of your router's range and identify any dead zones. Distance from the router can affect your Wi-Fi speeds. Test at varying distances from your router.Follow the Ethernet test with a test over Wi-Fi for an idea of the speed difference via Wi-Fi versus wired connection. Oftentimes, you can run such tests straight through your router via the router's accompanying app.Testing over an Ethernet connection will give you a better look at actual speeds you're getting from your provider.Test using both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections.Here are a few tips to consider when. Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. Here Malware or viruses: Malicious software affecting the router’s performance. Does a Hot Router Affect Internet Speed? In short, yes, a hot router can affect internet speed. HereDoes Router Affect The Internet Speed? Here’s The Truth
The issue.Method 8: Upgrade your Internet ConnectionNot everyone has access to high download speed through their ISP (Internet Service Provider), but for those that do, consider upgrading your internet connection.It is pretty straightforward that a 100mbps connection will have a slower download rate than a 1gbps connection.Method 9: Disable any Ad blockers or VPNsVPNs and Ad blockers can negatively affect the streaming performance of Fubo TV.Your connection to a VPN will always limit the speed in which you can stream content.Method 10: Clear your device cacheClearing your device’s cache can help with Fubo buffering issues.The cache accumulates data that can become outdated or corrupted over time, negatively affecting your streaming performance.You may also want to consider the cache’s impact on storage space and RAM. These can lead to sluggish performance when trying to stream on Fubo.Also, see:Clear Cache Samsung TVHow To Clear Cache On LG Smart TVHow to Clear Cache on Sony TVHow to clear the cache on Vizio SmartCast TVMethod 11: Upgrade your RouterThis option will not apply to everyone, but for some, the router could be the bottleneck in their home network, causing their Fubo TV buffering problems.If you have consistently upgraded your internet speed through your ISP but are still using an older router, you may wish to check your router’s maximum download speed.It’s all good having a 1gbps connection, but if your router can only download at 100mbps, you’ve got a massive bottleneck and a solid explanation for why Fubo TV is buffering.Method 12: Contact FuboComments
Will a new router help my Internet speed?Are you tired of slow internet speeds and frustrated with the constant buffering and lag? If you’re wondering whether a new router can improve your internet speed, the answer is yes – but it’s not always a straightforward solution. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how a new router can impact your internet speed and what you can expect.Understanding Your Current Internet SpeedBefore we dive into the world of routers, it’s essential to understand your current internet speed. You can check your internet speed using online speed tests, such as Speedtest.net or Fast.com. These tests will give you an idea of your upload and download speeds, as well as the latency (ping) of your connection.How Routers Affect Internet SpeedRouters play a crucial role in delivering internet speed to your devices. A router’s primary function is to connect your devices to the internet by forwarding data packets between them. The speed at which your router can process these data packets can significantly impact your internet speed.Types of Routers and Their Impact on SpeedThere are several types of routers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the most common types of routers and their impact on internet speed:Wired Routers: Wired routers are the most common type of router and are connected to your devices via Ethernet cables. They provide a stable and fast connection, with speeds of up to 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps).Wireless Routers: Wireless routers, also known as Wi-Fi routers, transmit data wirelessly to your devices. They can be affected by interference from other devices, walls, and furniture, which can slow down your internet speed. Wireless routers typically have speeds of up to 450 Mbps (megabits per second).Mesh Routers: Mesh routers are a type of wireless router that uses multiple access points to create a network. They provide a strong and reliable connection, with speeds of up to 1200 Mbps (megabits per second).Gaming Routers: Gaming routers are designed specifically for gamers and prioritize low latency and fast speeds. They typically have speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps (2500 Mbps).Will a New Router Help Your Internet Speed?So, will a new router help your internet speed? The answer is yes, but it depends on several factors:Old Router: If you’re using an old router, it may not be able to handle the speed of your internet connection. Upgrading to a new router can significantly improve your internet speed.Distance: If you’re using a wireless router, the distance between the router and your devices can impact your internet speed. A new router with a stronger signal can help improve your speed.Interference: If you’re experiencing interference from other devices, a new router with a better antenna design or mesh technology can help reduce interference and improve your internet speed.Internet Speed: If you’re not getting the speed you’re paying for, a new router can help optimize your internet speed. However, if your internet speed is capped or limited by your internet service provider (ISP),
2025-04-03One computer here has become very slow opening web pages. Cable modem, SMC router, several XP computers. Internet security software installed, running, and up to date. All Microsoft patches in place. Computers have been reliable until this. A couple of months ago one computer became much slower dealing with web pages, sometimes more than a minute to open a page. It looks like this might possibly be DNS resolution, but I cannot be certain. Other computers here do not show this. DNS addresses, etc. are the same on each computer. Computers and router and modem rebooted. No change. Help desk for the internet security software did a complete uninstall and reinstall and finally a new version. No change. Multiple scans done looking for any infections. Nothing found. Tried other reputable spyware scanners. Nothing found. Tried running the little executable from Microsoft to repair the net stack, I think. No change. Tried other browsers. IE8, Opera 10, Comodo Dragon all show the same very slow behavior on opening each page and item on the page. Tried speed test web pages and once the transfer starts the speed is not slow.So from all this I think I've eliminated possible causes outside this one computer.Is there a way I can track down and fix this with the minimum amount of ripping things up and making changes?Thank you September 6th, 2010 11:49pm Have you tried clearing the DNS cache on the machine?Go to a command prompt and type "IPCONFIG /FLUSHDNS" see if that helps.If you disable, temporarily as a test, the Internet security software does that affect the speed? Which Internet security software are you running?How is the performance of the machine otherwise? Other apps run normally? How much RAM does it have? How much free disk space?Anything here useful: ?-B- Author: The Lawyer's
2025-03-26Jitter can cause you to lose a game, making your gaming skill completely irrelevant.How can you fix jitter? The main cause of jitter is the difference in the average latency time of your packets. So, you can fix your jitter by lowering your latency and more. To resolve this, you should strongly consider using a wired internet connection if you’re not already. This is highly advisable when you are into online gaming rather than using a wireless connection. A wired connection will prevent fluctuations and lost packets which can significantly improve and lower your latency.Next is to use a high-speed internet connection. Lower internet speed may cause jitter or latency flux, especially when you're sharing it with other people or other devices. You may try and switch to fiber connections, or even just upgrade your connection and increase your bandwidth. Doing so can transform your gaming into smooth, no-jitter gameplay.Another step is to use a powerful router. Your router is the heart of your internet connection, so you’ll want to invest in the best here. Maybe your router has been there for ages, and it's not working well for your needs anymore. Look for a powerful router that is fit for your gaming needs. Do some research and check reviews to verify the quality of the router. Make sure that the bandwidth capacity is high enough to handle the traffic your household produces.We suggest finding a router with wtfast built-in. This way, your router can handle all the complexity of finding the best route across the thousands and thousands of potential different connection routes available in wtfast. Our friends at ASUS offer dedicated gaming routers with wtfast built-in, giving you peace of mind for gaming without headache. If you're still experiencing jitter and aren’t ready to upgrade your router, you can boost your game by simply using gaming software that offers the network optimisation solution for you. That software is wtfast! wtfast uses a custom business-grade network infrastructure that is perfect for your gaming needs. Our optimization services will provide you with a more reliable and responsive connection which can help you reduce jitter and improve your network stability. What is rubberbanding, and how does it affect my Goonzu Online experience? Rubberbanding is one of the major problems most gamers encounter when playing online games. This is extremely annoying, especially with Goonzu Online and online games with fast-paced ‘twitch’ mechanics.
2025-04-16Recommend replacing your Wi-Fi router every three to five years to ensure optimal performance. These are some key signs your Wi-Fi router is outdated and may need to be replaced:Firmware updates have stopped: Manufacturers eventually discontinue firmware updates for older routers, which can negatively impact router security and performance.Overheating: While some warmth is normal, a router that feels hot to the touch could signal that the internal components are overheating, affecting your connection.Frequent disconnections: If your devices randomly disconnect from Wi-Fi and disrupt your connection, you may need a newer router.Random rebooting: Frequent, unexpected reboots are another sign of an outdated router. 6. ISP throttling ISP throttling is when your internet service provider (ISP) deliberately slows your internet speed to manage total network bandwidth usage. ISP providers do this for various reasons, including to regulate traffic, enforce data caps, and deal with network congestion. In lots of cases, ISP throttling isn’t noticeable. However, at times, you may experience performance issues like buffering and lagging when your network is being throttled. 7. Background apps Apps or programs left running in the background can affect network performance even when you’re not actively using them. These apps continue to execute processes — like receiving notifications, installing software updates, or tracking location — even while not in use. This can use up bandwidth and slow your internet speed. 8. Insufficient internet speed If your internet plan’s guaranteed speed isn’t fast enough for your online activities, you may experience performance issues, especially during data-intensive tasks such as streaming or gaming. Internet speed is measured in megabits per second (Mbps). The most popular fiber internet speed in 2024 was 200 Mbps, which should theoretically allow for heavy usage on simultaneous devices. However, the ideal speed for you depends on how many users are on the network, the total number of connected devices, and what the network is used for. Chart explaining what internet speed you need. 9. Malware or viruses If you’re experiencing persistently slow internet, it might be a sign of malware or viruses on your connected devices. These malicious programs often consume a significant
2025-04-02Your NETGEAR router is designed to provide industry-leading performance. If your Internet connection seems slow when you're connected to your NETGEAR router, you can troubleshoot your connection to find out why your speeds are below your expectations.To troubleshoot your slow Internet connection when connected to your NETGEAR router, try the following:Update your router firmwareNETGEAR frequently releases firmware updates to improve router performance. Before performing additional troubleshooting, make sure that your router has the newest firmware version installed. For more information, see the following articles: What is firmware and why should I update it? How do I check for new firmware and update my Nighthawk router?Power cycle your equipmentWhenever you experience network problems, we recommend that you power cycle (restart) your modem and your router. Power cycling your equipment might be all that’s needed to resolve your network problems. For more information, see the following articles: How do I power cycle my home network? How do I power cycle or reboot my NETGEAR router?Test your Internet speeds on multiple devicesTo see if your entire network is experiencing slow speeds, run an Internet speed test on multiple devices that are connected to your NETGEAR router. If your Internet speed is fast on some devices but slow on others, you might want to troubleshoot the slow devices, or check to see if they support the same speeds as your router. For more information, see How do I check my Internet speed?Try connecting via EthernetIf you are experiencing slow speeds over WiFi, try connecting your device to your router with an Ethernet cable, and run another speed test. If your speeds are faster when connected via Ethernet, you might have a WiFi interference problem, or your device might use an older WiFi standard than your router. For more information, see What factors can affect my WiFi performance?Change your wireless channelsIf your speeds are worse over WiFi, and you think the problem might be wireless interference, you can manually change the wireless channels that your router uses. For more information, see the following articles: What do I need to know before selecting a different wireless channel? How do I change the wireless channel on my NETGEAR router?Connect directly to your modem or gatewayIf you still can't determine why your Internet connection is slow, unplug your router and use an Ethernet cable to connect a computer directly to your modem or gateway. After your computer is connected, run a speed test. If your speeds are still below your expectations, you might be experiencing a problem with your Internet service provider (ISP) or the service line entering your home. Contact your ISP to continue troubleshooting.For more information: How do I troubleshoot my wireless network? How do I
2025-04-09