A slow internet connection can be one of the most frustrating things in the world.
However, if you play your cards right, you can maximize your internet speed by following a few simple steps. For instance, the first thing that you can do is research and invest in a great internet service that is known for its performance.
If you go for a provider that’s notorious for their sub-par service, there’s nothing you can do to improve it.
For example, Xfinity Internet is among the most popular Internet Service Providers (ISPs) that are known for their resilient performance. In fact, even if your internet connection gives up at any point, you can contact Xfinity Customer Service and get the problem resolved in a jiffy!
However, other than contacting customer service, there are also some other simple, foolproof ways in which you can improve your internet performance. The best part is, it has everything to do with your router, which makes the process even easier.
Here are some simple steps that you can take to get improved internet speeds.
Change Your DNS Server Settings If You’re a Gamer
Changing your DNS server settings can work wonders for you if you tend to play online games often. For instance, you can head to your “Advanced Internet Settings” on your console and then change the DNS server settings from “Automatic” to “Manual”.
After that, you just have to set Primary to 8.8.8.8 and Secondary to 8.8.4.4, as these are the IP addresses used by Google’s public DNS server.
These servers allow users to experience greater speed and better reliability, making them the perfect choice for activities such as gaming and streaming. So, the first thing that you want to do is to change your DNS server settings accordingly.
A Good Old Power Cycle
If you keep your router on for a long period of time, it can develop glitches in the system, which can reduce your internet’s performance. Removing these glitches from your router is as easy as ABC.
All you have to do is run your router through a power cycle.
Sounds like a technical process, doesn’t it? You’ll be glad to know that it actually isn’t. All you have to do is unplug your router for around a minute or so and then turn it back on. This process is known as a power cycle, and it removes all glitches from your router. Even if your internet wasn’t working, a power cycle can get it up and running again.
Eliminate Interference from Any Other Devices
If you have a cursory knowledge of physics, then you’ll know about signal interference and how it works.
For instance, if you have anything magnetic near your router, then the magnetic waves will cause a disruption in the signals emitted by your router. This, in turn, will negatively affect your internet performance.
Therefore, you should reposition all devices that can potentially cause interference with your internet signals. This includes devices such as microwaves, Bluetooth devices, smart home devices, and even your Christmas lights.
Keep Your Firmware Updated
If your router has any known bugs, then the manufacturer might provide updates that will fix those bugs in the form of “patches”. You can download and install these patches whenever you update the firmware of your router.
If you keep running your router without updating the firmware, you’ll have to deal with a spotty internet connection more often, which can get frustrating.
So, always remember to open the configuration settings of your router by entering the IP address mentioned under your router to access the router’s portal. Once you sign in, you can look for a setting that lets you update the firmware.
Once you do so, you’ll see a significant improvement in your internet’s performance. Therefore, always make sure you periodically check for new updates so that you can keep your router up-to-date.
Choose the Best-Suited Wi-Fi Band for Your Network
You can usually choose between two Wi-Fi bands for your network: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (excluding the newly released 6 GHz bands). Their usage depends on your usage of internet usage and your preferences.
For instance, if you prefer greater signal range over internet speed, then you should opt for a 2.4 GHz band. It gives you more area coverage in terms of signals as compared to internet speed.
However, if distance isn’t an issue and you want greater internet speed, then you should opt for a 5 GHz network band.
Though most routers these days come with a dual-band feature that allows you to have both bands active at the same time, if your router only gives you the option to keep one, then you know which one to choose based on your needs.
Once you do all of these steps, you’ll see a significant improvement in your internet’s performance. However, as a bonus tip, you should also pay attention to the placement of your router. It should be in a central place, so that all corners of your house have an equal internet signal strength, giving you the most out of your internet service. Happy surfing!