Households warned Wi-Fi router speed isn’t always to blame for slow internet and common device is main culprit
BLAMING your sluggish Wi-Fi router on your network provider makes sense - but it's not always the right course of action.
The culprit might, in fact, be a lot closer to home.
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Does the Wi-Fi problem strike when you're surfing the web on a PC - but not while your streaming on your TV?
If it's that's the case, it's likely just an issue with your PC or laptop.
Fortunately, there's a way to fix this in their settings.
First, go to the Task Manager or Activity Monitor on your device.
Here you'll be able to see all the programs your computer is running.
Make sure your device isn't auto-updating programmes that you don't regularly use because this can slow down your internet speed.
You should also close streaming and music apps on your computer when you're not using them - they can be big drains of your Wi-Fi speed.
The same goes for those apps on your smartphone, TV, and tablets.
Try clearing the cache on your browser and closing tabs you don't use for other quick computer fixes.
Other Wi-Fi issues that aren't your router or its placements fault include problems with your internet provider.
Check your provider's website to see if it has flagged issues and contact them if your slow speed persists.
GOOD WI-FI ROUTER PRACTICES
Update your router software as regularly as possible so you have all the latest security features and any bugs can be fixed.
Make sure you add a strong password to avoid strangers jumping on your network and draining your speed.
This can also stop cybercriminals from hacking your device.
You should put your Wi-Fi router as central in your home as possible.
Generally, you should keep it in an open area that's raised off the ground.
Always make sure your router is plugged into the master socket rather than an extension cable so it works faster.