Slow Broadband speeds are probably the most frustrating part of a home Landline and Broadband package. Of course you can switch packages or even Broadband Providers to try to get a faster broadband service but the problem isn't always the provider or the service they're delivering. So before you jump ship and switch providers make sure you go through the following list first - otherwise you may find you have exactly the same issues with a new provider.
What's Your Expected Broadband Speed?
I don't mean what speed did your package advertise - unless you're on a cable network you may as well ignore the 'up to' speeds put in the adverts. Instead, contact your provider and ask them what speed they would actually expect you to be getting based on your postcode. They will be able to base this on what other customers in your area get, together with how far your home is from the local exchange (the further the distance the poorer your signal will be). If you're not receiving the broadband speeds your provider would expect you to get then read on, as there are plenty of things you can check.
Is Your Phone Line Damaged?
This is one that's best done by, or at least arranged by, your provider and if your speed is below what the provider would expect they may be helpful in getting this checked out. If you're using the phone network for your Broadband Service then the broadband signal will be delivered along the telephone line to your house.
Sometimes these lines get slightly damaged, not enough to inhibit your phone calls (which are much simpler to transmit) but enough to slow down your broadband, which is made up of far more data. If a part of the line is damaged the phone provider should be able to arrange for this to be repaired and you'll hopefully see a big improvement in your Broadband Speed.
Are you using Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is very common place and extremely handy, particularly for laptops, but it can impact your Broadband Speed in 2 main ways. Firstly, the very fact that it uses a signal transmitted through your house means that it won't be as efficient as plugging your laptop in to your internet cable. This can be particularly true if you have thick walls, or a trying to access your Wi-Fi signal from a different floor (e.g. upstairs). Try plugging in the cable to see if your speed increases.
Secondly, make sure that your Wi-Fi signal is secure and properly protected from unauthorised users. The more users the slower the speed so if your neighbours are accessing your Wi-Fi signal it will slow down your broadband speed - quite apart from the fact that you have no control what they may be downloading in your name! Make sure you have properly protected your Wi-Fi, you can check with your provider for their latest security measure to accompany their service.
How old is your Laptop?
It may be that the computer you're using is struggling to cope with the broadband speed available, if it's an older machine or under-powered. Difficult one to test but a clean up of your hard drive and the removal of any unnecessary programmes may speed it up. Alternatively, if you have a friend with a brand spanking new machine ask them to come over and test your broadband on it to see if it handles it any better.
Are your browser settings up to date?
If you don't update with the latest versions you won't be taking advantage of the latest and quickest software. Internet Explorer is a good case in point - version 7 is much quicker than version 6.
These pointers should help you maximise the speed of your broadband service before the more radical options of changing your network or broadband provider.
You can view the download speeds of all the Landline and Broadband Packages available in your area. David Butler writes for Landline Comparison, offering lots more independent advice and help with Home Phone and Broadband Deals.
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