How to improve Internet Speeds at Home

With many households self-isolating for the time being, the pressure on the internet is vast. BT Openreach has reported a 20% surge in daytime usage but that could even be higher. Many households will be using devices for work, schoolwork and streaming entertainment. Here is a simple guide on how you can boost your WiFi speeds.

According to Ofcom, advice ranges from the seemingly obvious, like downloading films in advance and not streaming them when someone else is trying to make a video call, to the less expected.

Did you know microwave ovens can also reduce WiFi signals? So, don’t use it when making video calls, watching HD videos or doing something else important online.

Other useful top tips include: –

• Position your internet router as far as possible from other devices that may interfere with the signal, such as on a table or shelf and not the floor.
• If you’re carrying out video calls or meetings, turning the video off as using just audio will require much less of your internet connection.
• Try starting calls at less common times, rather than on the hour or half-hour
• For the best broadband speeds, use an ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to your router instead of using WiFi.
• Where possible, try not to use a telephone extension lead, as these can cause interference which could lower your speed.

The regulator also suggested disconnecting devices that were not in use. “The more devices attached to your WiFi, the lower the speed you get,” it said. “Devices like tablets and smartphones often work in the background, so try switching WiFi reception off on these when you’re not using them”.