Quick fixes
Having experienced slow internet connections in the past and having some computer tech support background here are some of the more common issues that could be causing slow internet speeds.
So before you start worrying about your slow internet speed test results check out this potential quick fixes.
One of the first and most obvious things that could be wrong are connections. make sure all your modem connections and phone line connections are installed correctly. If you are using DSL and you need filters make sure they have not been removed by some ever so helpful kids. Some children seem to think they know everything about computer so if some kids visited you recently you might want to recheck your cabling set up.
Another common problem with slow speeds could be related to your USB connection. If you are using your computers USB port to connect to your modem it might be causing slow speeds. It could be software related with out of date drivers or it could simply be related to your overall computer system. Your USB port is used by other parts of your machine and to much “traffic” could be causing problems. Try connecting via ethernet if possible to confirm if the USB port is the issue.
Another common problem involves wireless networks. Other people could be accessing your network if its not secured correctly so there downloads would be slowing down your internet speed. Also the modems drivers could be faulty so that could also cause delays in traffic moving over the network. To see if your wireless network is the problem simply remove the wireless modem from your set up and directly connect to the internet via your modem. Your internet speed test performed via this method will be higher if the network was causing the problem.
Modem can also cause slow connections problems because of their cache. Your modem works like a small computer and it does store some data. Clearing your modems cache can help speed up your internet speed. We have seen internet speed test speeds increase by over 200 per cent after this simple and free fix. You simply unplug your modem from its power source for one minute and than plus it back in. Give it another two minutes to restart and make its connection and than restart your computer.
One of the worst possible problems would be related to virus or spyware issues. These types of programs operate in the background of your computer systems and they use up resources that make your whole system operate slowly and some are specific to internet applications.
Everyone should have some type of software installed on your computer if you are downloading any type of programs from the internet. Even the most harmless program could have some virus attached to it because the person passing on the program might not even know it.
Also if you have other users of your home machine, especially music lovers, you need some virus protection software. Downloads of “free” programs are often created by people who actually are distributing virus or spyware programs. You can try out some of our sponsors spyware scans to help you if you are worried about virus issues.