Why Is My Download Speed So Slow? – Reasons and How to Fix It

Why Is My Download Speed So Slow
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The Internet connection can become slow as a result of several reasons. A problem with modem or router, the signal strength of your cable line, Wi-Fi signal, the number of devices on the same bandwidth, or a slow DNS server may slow down the download speed. This step-by-step troubleshooting guide will help you detect the cause and resolve it.

Is It My Device or the Internet Connection?

The simple way to identify if the problem is in your device is to use multiple devices on the same network consecutively.

If you think the slow internet connection is the problem, you can check by opening numerous websites. This helps you in separating slow websites from fast websites.

How To Deal With a Slow Download Issue:

Is the speed problem only with one computer? Or all the devices are slow? If the problem is one computer, you can resolve the issue. For example, running a malware scan with any suitable antivirus is likely to eliminate any viruses present in the device. These viruses take a share of bandwidth and slow down the device’s downloading capacity. : Likewise, a reboot will most probably increase the speed of a computer.

To summarize, if you have upgraded your devices and even then the download speed remains slow on your computers and phones, certainly there is a problem with your internet connection.

Download Speed Vs. Upload Speed:

The speed of data retrieval from the internet allowed by a given internet connection is called its download speed. You use download speeds for streaming videos. Likewise, when data is sent from a device to the internet through a shared internet connection, it is called upload. Uploading a photo or a video takes upload speeds into usage.

Download Speed Vs. Upload Speed – Which One Matters More:

Download speed is often advertised for selling internet packages.  For a majority of users, download speed is of significance for most of their daily routine activities. For average home use, the upload speed is about 1/10 of the download speed.

What Is A Good Internet Speed:

The location and type of requirements are the factors that determine good internet speed. For example, the maximum speed available in a rural household is different from that available in urban areas.

Federal Communication Commission (FCC)’s Broadband Speed Guide considers a minimum of 25 Mbps as a good download speed. FCC reported that students require an average of 5 to 25 Mbps internet speed for timely completion of their college assignments. A person requires about 1 to 8 Mbps to stream videos or browse the internet. The amount of data transferred in 1 second is measured in Mbps and is used to determine internet bandwidth speeds.

“Good speed” depends on several factors that differ in every situation. Let’s take an example. A household gaming system works well within the range of 10 – 25 Mbps individually. When other devices are using the same internet, an additional 1 – 10 Mbps bandwidth will be required.

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List Of Fast Speed Tests

Are you tired of using a slow internet speed? Or curious to check your internet connection’s efficiency? A precise and accurate internet speed test is all you need. We have listed five top-rated and precise internet speed testing websites to help you check your download and upload speeds.

SpeedOf.Me:

SpeedOf.I am a speed test based on HTML5. The test can replicate real-world downloading and browsing situations. It measures internet speed by requesting several files of variable sizes. Then it records their download speed without placing a burden on your system resources. The test takes into account uploads, downloads, latency, server location, IP address, server location, and many other essential readings. The history section compares the test results to chart changes. Then they can be shared on FaceBook or Twitter.

Instead of choosing a location, in particular, this testing website measures the fastest and most reliable server from all 127 servers.  It downloads and uploads files to simulate real internet browsing conditions. Therefore, the results are almost accurate. It is certainly one of the best non-ISP internet speed testing websites. The downside is that it requires you to accept cookies.  This website is available for use on smartphones and tablets.

Speedtest.net:

Speedtest.net picks any nearby server to run a full test using its smart technology. The result is updated with download and upload speed, latency, and packet loss. You are asked to fill out a survey at the end of the test. Speedtest.net helps you evaluate your ISP’s claimed speed and the cost of monthly connections. Speedtest.net is fast and reliable, and it covers most of the worldwide test locations. It works by identifying the nearest internet testing server through your IP address.

This survey helps Ookla to gather a massive database of region-based consumer connection information. It produces more accurate results and creates a log of your internet speed tests. Creating an attractive graphic presentation of the results is the distinctive feature of this website. Speedtest.net also has its mobile apps for Windows, iPhone, and Android to test the phones’ internet speed. Similarly, Speedtest apps are also available for Apple TV and Chrome.

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Fast.com:

Netflix’s Fast.com is the only service-specific test. It measures the download speed by connecting your device to Netflix’s servers. Netflix’s content delivery systems use these servers, which are known as Open Connect.

Fast.com helps Netflix users identify the actual speed of their internet connection. Consequently, they do not blame Netflix for its slow speed. Therefore they will ask the ISP about slow results. The Fast.com download speed tests are often similar to that of a speed test taken directly from the ISP.

Bandwidth Place Speed Test:

Bandwidth place speed test provides a quick internet speed testing at one click. It accurately measures your download speed, upload speed, and ping. The test works by analyzing your service’s features. The website also guides you about the most suitable speed required for your specific internet needs. It has access to 20 servers worldwide and works via HTML5. You can use it for testing internet speed on your mobile.

Bandwidth Place Speed Test helps you select the best internet provider by comparing various providers and internet plans. It also connects you with the most suitable service providers. This process is simple and only requires a few clicks or a phone call.

TestMy.net

TestMy.net is offering internet speed test services for over 20 years. The website has an easy-to-use interface and can be used on all web browsers without additional plug-ins. This test produces real stats for your capacity.

TestMy.net tests for download and upload speed separately. An Automatic Speed Test compiles the results of upload and download tests into a meaningful result. You have to create an account to save all your test results for further reference and comparison. It also enables you to set a custom size of the files to test their upload and download bandwidths.

How To Increase Download Speed

Identifying the real problem causing the slow download speed can be tricky. The solution may be as simple as just restarting the computer, or it may be more complicated.

Download speed represents the amount of data downloaded to the device per second. It is measured as megabits per second (Mbps). The download may include files, images, videos, and texts. The applications such as YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram also run on the downloaded data.

The number of devices and the number of internet users in a household affects the download speed. The average use of 4 machines in a single home may increase the internet speed requirements up to 25 Mbps. Here is how you can improve your download speed.

Restart your Computer:

The slow download issue can be resolved by just restarting the computer. There may be some applications running on the computer you are not aware of. Similarly, you may have several open browsers. Restart the computer and try downloading again with only one browser at a time.

Testing Internet Speed:

If the device isn’t downloading even after a restart, the problem may be in your internet connection. The internet speed is measured as the amount of data transfer per second. Speed tests are the most convenient way of checking and increasing download speeds. Several websites like speedcheck.org enable you to test the speed of your internet with just a single click.

The speed test score above 100 Mbps indicates that the slow download speed is not related to the internet connection. A test score below 100 Mbps indicates that internet speed may be an underlying problem. Again, the speed of downloading is inversely proportional to the number of people using the same network at the same time.

Upgrade Internet Speed:

Every internet connection is not capable of handling large downloads. You will require a high-speed internet service if multiple people are using the same internet connection. Or if you are running multiple devices at the same time.

Reduce the Number of Devices On Your Browser:

The more the number of devices and people using the same network, the slower the internet connection will become. Therefore, before you start downloading, disconnect all other devices for some time. Downloading speed and capacity are increased when you decrease the load on your network.

Disable Unnecessary Applications:

The unnecessary applications running on your device slow down the internet. Before you start downloading, disable them to boost your download speed. The applications take a share of your bandwidth and therefore decrease the download speed.

Sometimes, the internet might be slow because you use some IP-changing services. You need to pick IP changing service very carefully, checking your internet speed after IP change. How to change my IP address?

Download One File at a Time:

Downloading multiple files at a time may cause some of your downloads to fail. It happens when your device is not compatible with downloading large files. Downloading a single file at a time is better if you want to save time and effort.

Modem or Router may be the Problem:

The router is connected to the modem, specifically when many devices are connected to the same network. A router connects numerous devices and serves as an antenna to increase the range of Wi-Fi.

Sometimes restarting the modem helps in fixing the download speed. If the download speed does not improve even after restarting the modem, you may need a new modem.

Here is an easy way to check the modem’s speed. Place your device near the modem. If the speed increase, it means that your router may be the actual issue. Placing the device far away from the router or modem also slows down the download speed.

Changing the Location of the Router:

The location of the router can affect the download speed. Some areas do not have a strong connectivity signal. If this is the case, WiFi extenders can boost internet speed. Placing routers inside bathrooms, cabinets, basement, floor, and near other appliances may decrease their range.

Changing the Location of the Router:
Location of the WiFi Router

Use An Ethernet cable:

If the Wi-Fi is not working correctly, using an Ethernet cable helps in increasing download speed. The Ethernet from the modem is connected to the device directly and does not require WiFi. We can say that Ethernet provides the fastest connection for speedy downloads.

Upgrade Your Cable:

If the slow download speed persists after adding an Ethernet cable, check the wire. Long and outdated cables are also responsible for causing a slow internet speed. Replacing with higher quality, shorter lines can make a tremendous difference in downloading speed.

Scan For Viruses:

If the device has viruses running in the background, they consume the internet and increase bandwidth usage. This is one of the major causes of slow download speed. Therefore installing reliable antivirus software is the only solution to this problem.

Limit Bandwidth Usage:

Bandwidth refers to a measurement of the amount of data that can be transmitted through a network. All the downloads, applications, and updates collectively consume the bandwidth and slow down the internet speed. You can disable automatic updates from the device’s system preferences. There is an option in the setting that allows you to limit the bandwidth usage manually.

Clear your Cache:

Cache stores internet data to allow fast access to website browsers and apps. The browser cache storage becomes full, and it consequently slows down the download speeds. You can clear the cache by removing browsing history, cached images and files, and computer cookies.

To clear the cache, go to your browser settings, click the desired boxes, and go to “clear data.” Downloading browser plug-ins is a convenient way of keeping the cache clear automatically.

Clear Cache Step 1
Clear Cache Step 1
Clear Cache Step 2
Clear Cache Step 2

Update Firmware:

Updating router firmware improves the performance and speed of your device. With time software performance declines and requires updates. Software is updated by going to the router’s settings via the brand’s web page. After logging in, you can update the settings and fix any issues causing slow download speed.

Setting the Router:

Most people do not notice the router’s settings, which they can easily change while updating the firmware. Sometimes the router’s default settings are not the best. The best router settings for fast speed internet and downloads are available on the provider’s webpage. Besides that, you can always find good instructions on how to set up your Router at online manuals like manualsnet.com. They are very easy to understand and free to use.

Several factors attribute to a slow download speed. Make sure that your devices are compatible with the ISP package you are using. The tips and tricks we have given will help you fix your downloading issues.

How to Make Steam Download Faster?

Most people feel that Steam’s built-in web browser has slow download speeds.  Here are some tips and tricks that can help you in speeding up the Steam’s browser.

How to Speed Up the Steam Web Browser:

The Steam web browser’s slow speed is due to the incompatibility with the Automatically Detect Settings option. Windows keeps these settings enabled by default. The users can disable it safely, which they can enable again when required.

To disable this option, go to the Start menu, open it, type “Internet Options,” and click on the Internet Options Shortcut. Now go to the “Internet Properties” window, switch on to the “Connections” tab, and click on the “LAN settings.”

Now click on the “Automatically Detect Settings” check box to disable it, and click “OK” to come out from the “Internet Properties.” In most cases, this trick works and resolves the delay issue with the Steam browser.

How to Increase Steam’s Game Download Speed:

The server selected by steam is often the nearest one, which is essentially not the best. You can increase stream game download speed by using this trick.

Click the “Steam” menu to open Steam’s settings, and select the “Settings” option. Now switch to the “Downloads” tab, go to the “Download Region” drop-down menu and select the closest download server. Check if Steam’s download bandwidth limit is not restricted. Restart Steam to check for the difference in download speed.

How To Increase Steam’s Game Download Speed

Conclusion:

Slow upload and download speed is a common problem that affects most business and personal operations. Even minor delays may cause frustration and make everyday tasks a bit of a problem.

Several factors cause slow downloading speed, and the most common is a slow internet connection. Several websites offer free and accurate internet speed testing services to access download and upload speed.

If the internet speed test gives a good result, then you can check for the credibility of your devices, modem, routers, cables, etc.

 

Thank you for reading!