Before trying anything below, run a baseline speed test so you can measure whether each fix actually helps: Test your speed at SpeedTool.in →
Note your download, upload, and ping numbers, then re-test after each change.
- Restart Your Router and Modem
The oldest trick still works. Routers accumulate memory issues over days/weeks of uptime. Power it off, wait 30 seconds, and power it back on. - Move Your Router to a Central, Open Location
WiFi signal weakens through walls, furniture, and distance. Place your router in a central spot, off the floor, away from microwaves and cordless phones, which can interfere with the 2.4GHz band. - Switch Between 2.4GHz and 5GHz
2.4GHz: longer range, better at penetrating walls, but slower max speed and more congested (shared with many household devices)
5GHz: much faster, but shorter range and weaker through walls
If you’re close to the router, switch to 5GHz. If you’re far away, 2.4GHz may actually give a more stable connection. - Limit the Number of Connected Devices
Every smart TV, phone, laptop, and IoT gadget (smart bulbs, cameras, etc.) draws from your total bandwidth. Disconnect devices you’re not using, especially ones doing background updates or cloud backups. - Close Background Apps and Auto-Updates
Cloud sync (Google Drive, OneDrive), auto-updating apps, and background downloads can silently consume most of your bandwidth. Check your device’s network usage settings to spot heavy background consumers. - Use an Ethernet Cable When Possible
WiFi always loses some speed to signal overhead. If you’re gaming, doing video calls for work, or transferring large files, a wired connection to your router will consistently outperform WiFi. - Update Your Router’s Firmware
Manufacturers release firmware updates that fix bugs and improve performance. Check your router admin panel (usually accessible via a browser at an address like 192.168.1.1) for a firmware update option. - Change Your DNS Server
Your ISP’s default DNS server isn’t always the fastest. Switching to a public DNS like Google DNS (8.8.8.8) or Cloudflare (1.1.1.1) can reduce webpage load times, though it won’t change your raw download/upload speed test numbers. - Set Up a WiFi Extender or Mesh System
If your home has WiFi dead zones, a single router often isn’t enough. A mesh WiFi system spreads coverage evenly across multiple access points, which is usually more effective than a basic signal extender. - Call Your ISP If Numbers Stay Low on a Wired Connection
If you’ve tried the above and your wired speed test still comes in well below your paid plan, the issue is likely on your ISP’s end — a line issue, local congestion, or an outdated plan. Share your speed test results with support; having concrete numbers usually speeds up the resolution.
Re-Test After Each Change
Speed improvements are easy to imagine and hard to guess accurately — always confirm with a real test.
Run your speed test again →
Related reading: WiFi Speed Test India: Full Guide · Jio vs Airtel Speed Test Comparison