The short answer: run a speed test and compare it with your plan, then restart the modem and router (FCC, Microsoft). If it’s still slow, move closer to the router (or move the router somewhere central), try the 5 GHz network, and pause other devices that are streaming. If your speed test is well below what you pay for, call your provider (FCC).
Step 1: Test your speed
- Stand near the router with your phone or laptop.
- Run a speed test, such as the free FCC Speed Test app.
- Compare the download number with the speed on your bill (FCC).
For reference, the FCC lists about 1 Mbps for email and browsing, 5 to 8 Mbps for HD video and 6 Mbps for HD video calls, for one activity at a time (FCC).
Step 2: Restart the modem and router
- Unplug the power from the router and the modem.
- Wait at least 30 seconds.
- Plug the modem in first and wait for its lights to stop blinking.
- Plug the router back in and wait a few minutes (Microsoft).
Everyone in the home is disconnected while they restart. Not sure which box is which? See modem vs. router.
Step 3: Give the router a better spot
- Put it in a central location in your home (FCC). Avoid hiding it in a cabinet, a far corner or on the floor.
- Keep it away from thick walls and large metal objects.
- For a large home, a Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can fill dead spots (FCC).
Step 4: Pick the right Wi-Fi band
Many routers show two networks. 5 GHz is faster but has a shorter range; 2.4 GHz covers more of the house but is slower (FCC). Near the router, join 5 GHz. Far away, 2.4 GHz may be steadier. Apple also suggests trying 5 GHz if you have trouble on 2.4 GHz (Apple).
Step 5: Reduce the load
- Lots of devices online at once slow things down (FCC). Pause streaming TVs, game consoles and large downloads during video calls.
- Keep devices you don’t need off your Wi-Fi; changing the Wi-Fi password is one way to do that (FCC).
- For a computer that never moves, an Ethernet cable to the router gives the fastest, steadiest connection (FCC).
Step 6: Check the device itself
- iPhone/iPad: turn Wi-Fi off and on, check for a VPN or security app slowing things down, and install updates (Apple).
- Android: forget and rejoin the network in Settings > Network & internet > Internet (Google).
- Windows: run the network troubleshooter in Get Help (Windows 11) or Settings > Network & Internet > Status (Windows 10) (Microsoft).
- Mac: hold Option, click the Wi-Fi icon and choose Open Wireless Diagnostics (Apple).
Still on Windows 10? Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. Home users can still get critical security updates by enrolling in Extended Security Updates (ESU), which covers Windows 10 version 22H2 and runs until October 12, 2027 (Microsoft). See how to install updates safely.
Step 7: Call your provider
If speed tests next to the router are still far below your plan after a restart, contact your internet company. Ask about outages, whether your modem or router is outdated, and whether your plan fits how many people use the internet in your home (FCC). If cost is a worry, ask about low-cost plans, and see whether you qualify for Lifeline (FCC). Our budget internet plans guide can help you compare.
Be wary of “speed boost” offers
Unexpected calls or pop-ups offering to “fix” or “boost” your internet for a fee are a common scam. Call the number on your bill instead. See how to avoid fake tech support scams.
Questions people ask about slow internet
How fast does my internet need to be?
The FCC’s rough guide: about 1 Mbps for email and browsing, 3 to 4 Mbps for standard video, 5 to 8 Mbps for HD video, and 6 Mbps for HD video calls, per activity at a time (FCC). Several people streaming at once need more. See what internet speed seniors really need.
Why is it slow only in some rooms?
Wi-Fi gets weaker with distance and walls. 2.4 GHz reaches farther but is slower; 5 GHz is faster but has shorter range. A Wi-Fi extender or mesh system can help in a large home (FCC).
Why is it slow in the evening?
When several people stream, game and video call at the same time, even a fast router gets bogged down (FCC). Pause big downloads and streaming on other devices while you video call.
Will a faster plan fix it?
Only if your plan is the bottleneck. Test your speed first and compare it with what you pay for (FCC). If the test shows far less than your plan, ask your provider to check the line or equipment before upgrading.
Is my old computer the problem?
It can be. If only one older computer is slow and phones on the same Wi-Fi are fine, the computer itself may be the issue. Restart it and install updates.
Keep learning
- Wi-Fi Says Connected but No Internet
- What Internet Speed Do Seniors Need?
- Internet & Wi-Fi Help for Seniors
