Slow internet? Here’s How to Increase Bandwidth

While you might end up increasing your bandwidth with the steps mentioned below, it’s important to note that the security of your internet connection hasn’t improved at all.

The quality of your online experience is highly dependent on one thing – bandwidth. You can’t enjoy playing a game, watching YouTube videos, or browsing through social media if your internet speed sucks. Therefore, it doesn’t come as a surprise that you’re wondering how to increase bandwidth of your internet.

Fortunately, there are many ways to maximize the speed of your internet connection. Some are related to your router and Wi-Fi, while others are general tips and tricks. This article has covered the most effective ways to improve bandwidth for the best possible internet experience.

Bandwidth – Let’s Define It

Before we discuss how to increase bandwidth, let’s define what bandwidth actually is. In simple terms, bandwidth is the amount of data uploaded or downloaded from your device within a specific time period.

You don’t always get the advertised bandwidth. If your package says 10 Mbps, then chances are you won’t get exactly 10 Mbps all the time.

The first step to fix your bandwidth issue is testing your internet speed, and you can do that from here. The test will make things a lot clearer. Maybe you are getting the bandwidth you are promised.

In this case, all you need is an upgraded internet package as your internet usage needs might have increased. If not, we’d advise that you follow our thorough list of do’s and don’ts to boost your bandwidth.

What is Low Bandwidth?

Low bandwidth refers to a scenario where the amount of data that can be transmitted over a network is insufficient or limited. It can happen due to multiple reasons such as heavy network traffic, limited bandwidth availability, or a slow internet connection.

If you are suffering from low bandwidth, it can lead to issues like buffering of streaming content, poor audio or video quality during online video calls, as well as slow page load times when you visit websites.

Fortunately, low bandwidth issues can be fixed if you follow the right tips and tricks. Find out how below.

How to Increase Bandwidth on Router

The bandwidth you’re getting is highly dependent on your router’s condition. Yes, the device that sends out wireless signals for your devices to connect to the internet needs your attention too. Mostly, routers are set up once and forgotten. Well, it’s time to take a look at them:

1. Change the Router’s Location

The router needs to be placed in an open space with minimal interferences and obstructions. Other wireless devices like baby monitors or cordless phones may hinder the WiFi signal. Also, doors and walls serve as interruptions too.

It’s possible that you placed the router ideally when you set it up for the first time. However, after a couple of years, things have changed in your house – there’s more stuff. So, revisiting your router’s location isn’t a bad option.

2. Reboot your Router

At times, the router is just tired or overworked, and it needs to be restarted. Switch it off and on once in a while. Better yet, you can put it on automatic reboot – the router will restart itself during inactive hours.

3. Get a Dual-bandwidth Router

WiFi channels can become overcrowded due to many routers working in the same location. You can’t blame your neighbor’s router for it, as the signals may overlap and create bandwidth lagging. A dual-bandwidth router uses two frequencies – 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

Some dual-bandwidth routers let you use one frequency simultaneously, while others allow access to both frequencies simultaneously. With a dual-bandwidth router, you can switch between frequencies when a wireless channel is jammed.

4. Update the Router’s Firmware

The router is running its own software or firmware. Just like any other software, it must be updated regularly. That’s why you must access your router’s admin console once in a while for updates. You can also tweak other router settings there.

How to Get More Bandwidth from ISP

Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) can be the culprit sometimes for low bandwidth. It’s a questionable practice, but ISPs worldwide are involved in bandwidth throttling. If you think the issue is related to your ISP, we suggest the following actions:

1. Contact Your ISP

Sometimes contacting your ISPs solves the problem for a lot of people. Since they provide you with access to the internet, they will identify the problem and solve it. Also, maybe it’s time to upgrade your package. If you are on the same package for a long time, switching to one with more bandwidth is a good idea. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have to pay more because ISPs keep coming up with affordable packages, each offering a different set of features and speed.

2. Bandwidth Throttling by Your ISP

ISPs are notorious for bandwidth throttling. It means they slow down your internet speed purposely during peak hours. So, if you feel your internet is working slower than usual at any time of the day, the chances are that it’s done by your ISP deliberately. Sure, it allows them to manage network congestion, but bandwidth throttling can be especially when you want to watch your favorite TV show on Netflix.

How to Increase Bandwidth on Wi-Fi

If your WiFi signals are weak, it can cause issues regarding the bandwidth you’re receiving. We’d recommend using the following DIY tricks to enhance WiFi signals for better bandwidth:

1. Get an iPlate

The BT iPlate can accelerate the broadband speed by up to 60%! It’s attached to your phone socket and reduces any extra radio interference. It’s a cheap option, but there are no guarantees whether it will work for you or not.

2. Enhance Your Wi-Fi Field

A wireless repeater is a device that can bounce off the signals over a large area. It is an ideal way to increase your wireless range. However, WiFi repeaters are not very affordable.

You can also invest in a powerline adapter. It will utilize the wiring in any space to disseminate WiFi signals. In simple words, powerline adapters convert any empty socket into a wireless hotspot. Once again, the powerline adapter is expensive and will require a substantial amount if you’re looking to use them around the house.

How to Increase Bandwidth – General Tips & Tricks

We have talked about specific topics about improving bandwidth. Now, let’s discuss some general tips and tricks that can assist in the matter:

1. Use A VPN

Using a VPN has many benefits. You can avoid bandwidth throttling as your ISP won’t be able to recognize you. Also, there is an added benefit of utmost internet security and privacy.

2. Go Wired

It is a fact that wired connections have better internet speed than wireless ones. It would help if you kept in mind that choosing a wireless connection means a substantial decrease in speed. If you can, it is the best option to attach an Ethernet cable to the device. And if your speed doesn’t improve even after connecting the Ethernet cable, then the problem is with your ISP.

3. Switch Your Browser

Browsers receive updates regularly, and keeping them updated ensures the best functionality. You may face bandwidth issues if the browser isn’t updated. If they persist even after updating the browser, then it’s probably time to make a switch.

4. Shut Down Background Apps

You may not know, but many background apps could be consuming your bandwidth. You need to check and change the settings of all such apps that run automatically. It will definitely have an impact on your connection speed. You can figure out which apps are running in the background via Alt + Ctrl + Delete.

5. Scan Your Computer

Viruses may also affect the internet speed on your smartphone or computer. It’s a good idea to scan your device regularly for any potential threats or viruses. This way, you can get hold of the problem before it can cause any trouble. Of course, you’d have to install good antivirus software.

5. Quality of Service Setting

There is an option in your router’s settings called QoS (Quality of Service). It decides the priority for bandwidth consumption. You can tweak it as per your needs. For instance, you can give downloading preferences over YouTube videos.

6. Update Your Device

If you are using an ancient laptop, computer, or smartphone, you can expect to experience slow internet speeds. Since such devices support older wireless standards, you’ll need to update them for a better, smoother, and lag-free online experience.

How to Increase Your Upload Speed

Your upload speed decides how fast data from your device reaches its destination. If you want to improve it, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Clean up your device by removing unnecessary files, clearing caches, and running malware scans to remove any viruses or malicious software. Plus, keep your antivirus software up to date.

• If too many devices are connected to your network, they all will compete for bandwidth, which can lead to slower upload speeds. So, reduce the number of devices on your network.

• Consider using an ethernet cable because the strength of Wi-Fi signals can fluctuate depending on your physical location. 

• Check your router to ensure that it is functioning correctly and has the right settings in place. Also, make sure to update its drivers.

• If the drivers of connected devices are not up-to-date, it can result in conflicts with your network. So, keep them updated.

Conclusion

And that’s all! If your internet speed is letting you down, try the aforementioned tips and tricks to increase bandwidth. However, if you’re still facing issues, feel free to use the comments section below, and we’ll try to provide you with the appropriate solutions. 

FAQ’s

What is Bandwidth Throttling?

Bandwidth throttling (or ISP throttling) is a practice where internet service providers limit the amount of bandwidth available to its users. This can occur when users engage in bandwidth-intensive activities like HD streaming, resulting in slower internet speeds. Using a VPN can help you prevent ISPs from keeping an eye on your online activity and reducing your internet speed. 

Can You Increase Internet Bandwidth?

If your internet bandwidth is low, there are some steps that you can take to boost it. Some of them include using a VPN to bypass throttling, repositioning your router for better Wi-Fi signals, scanning your computer for viruses, and so on.

What Causes Poor Bandwidth?

A variety of factors can lead to poor bandwidth, including network congestion, low internet plan, old or outdated equipment, viruses or malware, etc.

How Do I Increase Bandwidth for Streaming?

You could use a wired connection, upgrade your internet plan, use a VPN to prevent throttling, close unnecessary applications, and reduce the video quality to increase your bandwidth for streaming videos.

What causes poor bandwidth?

Several factors can cause poor bandwidth including Network congestion, Distance, Obstructions, Outdated hardware, & Service provider issues

What’s a good bandwidth?

A good bandwidth depends on several factors, such as the number of users, the types of activities being performed, and the desired level of performance.

It is estimated that for web browsing and emailing, a bandwidth of 1 Mbps (megabits per second) is sufficient. A bandwidth of 3-5 Mbps is recommended for streaming video and music. For gaming, a bandwidth of 5-10 Mbps is recommended. For high-quality 4K video streaming, a bandwidth of 25 Mbps or higher is recommended.

Should I increase bandwidth?

Whether you should increase your bandwidth depends on your specific needs and usage. If you frequently experience slow internet speeds, buffering while streaming videos, slow download times, or poor video call quality, increasing your bandwidth may help improve your experience.