Internet Too Slow? It’s Probably Not Your Provider!

Don’t complain to your broadband provider just yet — not all internet connection issues are caused by your provider! There are plenty of factors why your internet service isn’t delivering the promised speeds. It can be due to your browser, cables or modem placement!

Before complaining to your provider, it’s recommended to check the common causes of slow internet, and follow this basic troubleshooting guide. 

Check your internet speed

If you believe your internet connection is not delivering the promised speeds, check your internet speed. Use our internet speed test, which uses Ookla — one of the most trusted broadband speed tests with more than 5 million users every day. 

It provides accurate results whether you’re testing via your phone or PC. You can use these results to compare it to the promised speeds of your broadband provider.

If the results aren’t as promised…

If you’re paying for a broadband plan with internet speed of 25Mbps but getting only around 20-23Mbps, it can be considered worth the money. After all, you’re paying for “up to” internet speeds — not fixed 25Mbps. 

If you’re getting lower than average, it’s also not a direct indication of bad internet. Your current network may just be busy at the time of your test. It’s recommended to take several tests throughout the day for more consistent results.

Reboot your router or modem 

One of the biggest possible causes of slow internet is a bad router. Like any other tech devices, it can encounter problems like overheating, interference, and normal wear and tear. And just like any other tech devices, rebooting the router may usually do the work. 

Unplug the router from the outlet, and wait for a minute or two before plugging it back in. This will allow the router to cool down and refresh the connection.

If the connection isn’t back as it used to…

If your internet connection is still not working properly, reset your router completely. This is the old trick of pushing the button at the back of the router for 10-30 seconds. Wait until the router’s indicator lights flickers, and you’re all set. 

Note that resetting your router also resets the username and password of your connection. If you can’t remember the default details of your router, you can find it at the bottom of the box. If it was erased due to normal wear and tear, it’s best to contact your broadband provider.

Read: Different Broadband Plan Types By Speed in New Zealand

Move your router around the home

Although it may not be on the top of your mind, it plays a big part in delivering the promised internet speeds. Obstructions like walls and cupboards, as well as electrical appliances like television, radio, and monitor can slow down your broadband.

Moving your router usually does the trick. Ideally, you can place the router where it’s visible wherever you may be at home. If you can see the router, it can distribute the signal to your device.

If you’ve moved your router everywhere…

If moving it isn’t effective, check for coaxial splitters. A bad quality splitter can degrade your connection. The best way to remedy this is to directly connect your router. This will shorten the flow of the internet, increasing the quality of your connection.

Otherwise, it may be because of the router itself. Just like any tech devices, routers get outdated. The technology inside it may not be supported by providers anymore. If this is the case, you should switch to a modern router.

Switch to another plan

It may be because you’re still connected to ADSL or VDSL broadband! While these are pretty fast plans at 10-70Mbps, there are better options out there. Ultra-fast fibre broadband plans get as fast as 1Gbps, which are more than enough for even the heaviest internet usage.

The great thing is, the New Zealand government is continuously rolling out fibre cables throughout the country! Even if you live in a rural area, you may be able to take advantage of this fast and reliable plan now!

Read: What is Fibre Broadband and why is it Important?

If you’ve already switched…

If you’re still not getting the promised speeds after your switch, your broadband provider may not have excellent services in your area. While they really do deliver broadband speeds as fast as 1Gbps, they likely don’t support your location, which is why you have slow internet!

If this is the case, you better switch a broadband provider that has better coverage and services. Compare the best broadband plans in your address through our comparison tool here at CompareBear.