Websites seem sluggish and downloads take forever. It’s frustrating – especially when you’re paying for high-speed internet.
First, make sure it’s not just you. When I’m unsure if slow speeds or timeouts are part of a bigger issue, I hit up down-detector to see if others are reporting the same problem.
If that’s not the issue, it could be a moocher. Yes, your neighbors or someone else could be piggybacking off your connection, so check out all the devices connected to your network.
There could be another culprit you might not have considered. Your internet service provider (ISP) could be throttling your speed. Here’s a smart way to check what’s going on behind the scenes. All you need is a VPN.
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First things first: Finding the right VPN
A VPN creates a secure bridge between your device(s) and the internet, encrypting your online traffic from all forms of interference, snooping and censorship.
Usually, a free VPN will sell your data and collect everything – and I mean everything – that you do when you’re using it. And a free VPN will slow your connection down while collecting all your data. It’s free for a reason. You are paying with your data and boom, it starts. You get more spam, targeted ads and maybe even more robocalls.
You want a VPN that doesn’t harvest and sell your information and works across several devices. Most of all, it must be easy to use. I use and recommend ExpressVPNa sponsor of my national radio show.
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Is your ISP throttling you?
Before turning on your VPN, check your internet speed. You can Google search for “speed test in your browser, but I use Speedtest.net.
- Go to Speedtest.net and click “Go” in the middle of the screen. It will automatically detect test servers near your location.
- For the first test, use the server it chooses. Afterward, you can try other servers around the country if you want.
- It will quickly tell you the ping, upload and download speeds for your connection. Write this down.
Now that you know your internet speed, turn on your VPN. Run Speedtest.net again and compare speeds with and without an active VPN.
In most cases, internet speeds will be a bit slower when connected to any VPN. A VPN hides the IP address that ISPs use to see who’s connected. Here’s the tell-tale sign: If your internet speed is slower without a VPN active, your ISP is most likely throttling you.
I suggest doing tests when you and your neighbors aren’t on video calls or streaming. Avoid the morning when everyone is taking meetings or the evening when we all fire up Netflix. Repeat this test several times over a few days to find an average.
If you find your speeds are much better with a VPN, call your ISP to find out what’s going on. They can speed up your connection in many cases without even making a house call.
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How to speed up your internet if you’re not being throttled
If your speed test shows faster speeds without the VPN, it’s time to get to work to improve your connection.
First, try updating your router’s firmware. You’ll get additional features and improvements by virtue of the new version and your router will receive essential security updates.
Usually, you have the option to check, review, download and install your router’s new firmware on its administration page. The exact steps depend on your router’s make and model, so check the router manufacturer’s support site for detailed directions.
Not sure how to access your router’s administrator settings to do the update? I can show you the easiest way to find your router’s password and IP address.
That’s just the start. Here are 9 more steps to speed up your Wi-Fi. I’ll show you how to spot interferences, where to place your router and more.
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George is Digismak’s reported cum editor with 13 years of experience in Journalism