A sluggish connection doesn’t always mean you need to spend more on a faster internet plan. In many cases, optimizing your setup and managing your devices can significantly improve your speeds. By making a few strategic adjustments, you can maximize your current plan and enjoy smoother browsing, streaming, and video calls without increasing your monthly bill.
Restart Your Router Regularly
Routers function like small computers, and over time, they can slow down due to memory buildup. Restarting your router once a week clears temporary glitches and refreshes your connection.
Optimize Router Placement
Wi-Fi signals can weaken when blocked by walls, appliances, or furniture. Position your router in a central, elevated location, free from obstructions. If your home office or streaming area is far from the router, consider upgrading to a mesh Wi-Fi system like Eero or Google Nest Wi-Fi.
Use Wired Connections When Possible
Ethernet cables deliver more stable and faster connections than Wi-Fi. For activities that require consistent speeds—such as online gaming or video conferencing—plugging devices directly into the router can eliminate lag.
Update Your Devices and Firmware
Outdated devices and routers can bottleneck your connection. Updating firmware ensures your router operates with the latest performance and security improvements. Similarly, keeping laptops, tablets, and phones updated can improve efficiency.
Limit Bandwidth-Hungry Applications
Background apps like cloud backups, file downloads, or streaming services can consume significant bandwidth. Schedule these tasks outside of working or streaming hours. Many modern routers also include Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize traffic for critical tasks like video calls.
Check for Wi-Fi Interference
Other electronics, such as microwaves or cordless phones, can interfere with Wi-Fi signals. Switching your router to the 5 GHz band can help avoid congestion on the commonly used 2.4 GHz frequency.
Save on Upgrades with Cashback
If you do decide to enhance your setup with better equipment, there are ways to save. For example, you can earn cashback with an Amazon gift card for routers, cables, or smart home devices, or get rewards with a Best Buy gift card for networking gear. To keep improving your home internet setup affordably, download Fluz and start earning cashback instantly.
Final Thoughts
Boosting your internet speed doesn’t always require upgrading to a higher-tier plan. By adjusting your router setup, using wired connections, and managing device usage, you can achieve better performance with your current service. Pair those improvements with cashback savings on tech upgrades, and you’ll enjoy a faster, more cost-effective connection.
