Let’s talk internet speed for a second.
I know you’ve experienced this problem before. You open your web browser to go out to the Internet. However, the site you’re trying to get to is taking forever to load.
Of course, you try several times but keep getting the same results. Now you’re getting frustrated, as you need to get work done, but can’t because the internet is NOT cooperating.
After some time of this re-occurrence, you’re about ready to throw the damn thing out the window!
“Why is the internet so damn slow?!?”…you blurt out to yourself. “This is really starting to aggravate me!”
….before you get barbaric and start throwing a fit or trashing the place, let me offer you a few suggestions that could help.
There are a few things to consider that could be impacting your internet speed. Here are the most obvious ones, and what to do about them:
- Local Computer Having Issues
- Your Modem is Bad
- Your ISP is Having Problems
- Web Protection Software Blocking Connection
Now let’s dig a little deeper into each one to see what’s really going on…
Local Computer Having Issues
Your local machine may need some optimization done, to speed things up. A slow computer is always a pain to deal with. If however, you’ve done some optimization, and the computer is still slow, then it may be time to upgrade that puppy. I wrote a post about Upgrading to a New Computer, so I won’t get into that topic here.
But let’s get back to the optimization process. When optimizing a computer, I want you to think in terms of 4 categories:
- Memory or RAM
- Hard Drive
- Processor/CPU
- OS (Operating System)
I’m going to keep this really simple and to the point, for each category.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
If you need more memory for your computer, get more memory. It’s that simple. Most PC-based computers come with only about 50% of the maximum amount of RAM that can be installed on that computer. So always utilize this option first.
Hard Drive
Most of us like to download a lot of “stuff” on our computers. If you’re using more than 75% of the total hard drive space, then you need to delete most of the “stuff” you have on there. Go through all the folders, starting with the root of the C: drive, and delete everything that you don’t need.
Processor/CPU
This is pretty much set in stone. Unless you’re a techie like me or a gamer, there’s very little you can do to improve your processor speed. If you’re finding that this is the reason for poor performance, then proceed with getting a new computer.
OS (Operating System)
As of this writing in 2018, if you’re running anything less than Windows 7 or Windows 10, then that’s the first problem to fix. Either upgrade to one of those two OS or again, get a new computer entirely. My suggestion in this scenario, get a new computer. It’s best for everyone, trust me.
Your Modem is Bad
Your modem is usually provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider). The best thing to do here is to contact your ISP and have them ping and troubleshoot the device from their end.
They can ship you a new one with better capabilities to help improve your internet performance. It’s usually of no cost to you. Unless you’re not in a contract and just paying them on a month-to-month basis. In which case, they’ll sell you on a new contract (usually a 2-year sentence….I mean term). That way you can take advantage of whatever specials and discounts they have available.
It’s best to get on a contract with them to save on the cost of support and equipment.
Your ISP is Having Problems
Speaking of ISPs. It’s always good to chat with your ISP every now and again. Especially if you’re noticing internet speed is declining.
By the way, let me make this disclaimer….not all ISPs are created equal. Unfortunately, some ISP provides crappy service. Not only that but you’re often limited in options for available ISPs, depending on your location.
If you fall into this category, make sure you have their latest equipment. If possible, upgrade to their best service level without breaking the bank. Also, be on the lookout for new ISPs in your area. If you discover some new players coming to town, make the switch as soon as you can.
Another thing to consider is that your ISP may have some updates that you’re not aware of. This can also drastically improve your internet speed. For example, they might have manufactured a new modem/router with high-end features. Another example is they’ve increased their bandwidth for better service.
Most ISP are not good at volunteering this information to their customers. You would need to be proactive and ask them about any improvements they’ve launched.
Web Protection Software Blocking Connection
This last category can be a bit of a mystery. Web protection is usually an added feature from another protection software, like anti-virus, malware protection, or in some cases, monitoring software used by your IT company. So it’s important to check the features of those applications to see if, in fact, it has web protection. If it does, try modifying it and see if the internet connection improves.
Final Statements
If your internet speed has been suffering, consider the 4 factors mentioned above. I can almost guarantee that one or a combination of them could be causing the problems you’re having.
As a final note, it’s always good to verify your connection speed so you know for sure what’s going on. To do so, you would need to conduct a speed test. I made a video about this some time ago. Check it out and see what connection speed you’re getting.