Slow internet is rarely about your broadband speed. Most of the time, the problem is between your router and your device — the Wi-Fi itself. Here's how to figure out what's going on and fix it.
Step 1: Test your actual broadband speed
Plug your laptop directly into the router with an ethernet cable and run a speed test at speedtest.net. If the speed is close to what you're paying for, your broadband is fine — the problem is your Wi-Fi. If the wired speed is also slow, call your provider.
Router placement matters more than anything
Your router should be out in the open, ideally at head height, in the centre of your home. Not in a cupboard, not behind the TV, not on the floor in the corner of a room. Every wall, floor, and piece of furniture between your router and your device reduces the signal.
Thick walls (especially Victorian brick or stone), mirrors, fish tanks, and underfloor heating all kill Wi-Fi signals. If your router is in the hallway cupboard and you're trying to stream in the bedroom two floors up — that's your problem.
Switch to 5GHz
Most modern routers broadcast two networks: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The 5GHz band is faster but has shorter range. If you're in the same room as the router, use 5GHz. If you're further away, 2.4GHz has better range but is slower and more prone to interference from neighbours.
Change the channel
If you live in a flat or terrace, your neighbours' routers are competing with yours on the same channel. Log into your router (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — check the sticker on the bottom) and change the Wi-Fi channel. For 2.4GHz, try channels 1, 6, or 11. For 5GHz, try any channel that's different from the default.
Update your router firmware
Log into your router admin page and check for firmware updates. Manufacturers release updates that fix bugs and improve performance. Many people have never updated their router once.
When to get a mesh system
If your home is large, has thick walls, or is spread across multiple floors, a single router will never cover it all. A mesh Wi-Fi system (TP-Link Deco, Google Nest WiFi, or similar) uses multiple units to blanket your home in signal. They're not cheap (£100–£200) but they solve dead spots permanently.
We can help
If you're not comfortable messing with router settings, we do home Wi-Fi assessments and setup for £45. We'll diagnose the actual problem, optimise your router placement and settings, and install a mesh system if needed. Coverage across all of Sussex.