Wi-Fi troubleshooting

Internet works but is very slow

Compare like with like: use the same device, location, and test before and after a change. One slow app does not prove the whole connection is slow.

Home internet • Wi‑Fi and wired comparisonsUpdated

Before you start

Check what speed your plan advertises. A Wi‑Fi speed test also measures the local wireless connection, not just the provider’s line.

Try these steps in order

Test after each step. If the problem is resolved, you can stop.

  1. Check more than one service

    Open another website or app. A problem isolated to one service may need that service’s support.

  2. Pause competing activity

    Temporarily pause large downloads or backups you control. Retest when other people are not streaming.

  3. Compare locations

    Test near the router, then in the problem room. If available, compare with a wired connection using suitable equipment.

  4. Check equipment without resetting it

    Inspect accessible cable connections and follow your provider’s restart instructions. Allow equipment to reconnect fully.

  5. Compare another device

    If only one device is slow in the same spot, investigate that device before blaming the service plan.

What your result may mean

Fast nearby, slow farther away
Coverage is a more useful next investigation than buying more internet speed.
Wired and wireless are both slow
Ask your provider to check service and equipment.
Only one site buffers
Check that service’s support or status information.

Still not working?

Give your provider the test times, connection type, device, and results. These comparisons narrow the investigation; they are not proof of a specific hardware fault.

Official support & further reading

Instructions vary by model. These are general, AI-assisted guides—not hands-on test reports or guaranteed diagnoses. Read our editorial guidelines.

Something unclear or out of date?

Email techfixguidehelp@gmail.com with the guide title and your device model. Do not send passwords or private files.