As a regular internet user, have you ever encountered annoying connectivity issues? If you have, you are not alone. About 42% of households also face issues with a slow internet connection. Frankly, there is nothing more frustrating than a slow internet speed. 

Your internet slowing down could be due to a myriad of issues; it could indicate that there might be a problem with your router, Wi-Fi signal, or a slow DNS server. Fortunately, it can easily be rectified when you take a few troubleshooting steps to identify the problem. Here are a few reasons why you may be having internet connectivity issues, as well as what to do in such cases.

Why Is My Internet Slow?

Here are some of the reasons why you might be having trouble with your broadband internet’s speed:

1. Compare Your Speed to Your Plan

Before you start troubleshooting some of your devices, it would be best to check your internet speed to see how it is faring and compare it to your current internet plan. Remember to pause all downloads, streaming, and any other activities to ensure that your test is as accurate as possible. 

Next, compare your speed to your plan to see if it meets up to the expected speed you are paying. You will find this vital detail on your bill. If not, check out your service provider’s website. However, it would help if you exercise caution when making comparisons.

There may be instances where your speed may be slower because more people around you are also using the same broadband internet connection. Alternatively, it could mean that you are paying for a slower service. 

2. Check Your Router

Your router is your internet’s lifeline, pumping your Wi-Fi connection through your home. But sometimes it might have issues with overloading, and it can slow down. Most times, all it takes is a simple reboot. 

All you have to do is unplug your router for a minute or two before plugging it back in. Unplugging your router gives it the chance to reset its memory. You can also check the LED lights on your router, as your Internet will most likely be labelled WAN or have the internet globe icon. It is usually green or white and should be stable or flash slowly. If it flashes erratically or becomes red, that means there is a connection issue.

3. Contact Your Internet Service Provider

If you have run through your options and still cannot seem to find a solution, the problem might not be coming from you or your internet devices but rather from your service provider. The best thing to do is to contact your provider and report your problem. Since you are paying them for a service, they are obligated to resolve any issues from their end. 

Your internet, however useful it is, can frustrate you at certain times when it becomes slow. Fortunately, there are easy tips you can follow to reverse its slow speed. However, if you are still experiencing issues with your service provider and are considering switching to another, ensure that you check out the best deals available.