Why is my internet so slow during the day?

If you’re a regular internet user, you know there are few things as frustrating as attempting to use your connection and experiencing buffering and lag during the day. Small hiccups are to be expected, but regular issues with your internet connection can make you wonder why you’re paying a consistent price for inconsistent speeds.

Before you call tech support, check out some typical problems that may be causing your internet connection to slow down during the day.

Reasons for slow internet

A decrease in internet speed happens more frequently during the evening: most users are online during the time from 7 – 11 p.m. known as “internet rush hour.” However, a speed decrease during the day could also take place. Here are multiple reasons and how you might address them:

Heavy network traffic

Connection traffic refers to the competition between users and devices for bandwidth on your internet connection. Just like a highway or interstate, the more users and devices that share your network, the more congested it becomes.

Cable internet subscribers share bandwidth with other users in their area and will be more susceptible to heavy network traffic in and outside the household. Take some stress off your network by disconnecting internet-connected devices that are no longer in use or are using up bandwidth unnecessarily.

You can also switch to a channel on your Wi-Fi with fewer connected devices. Most routers have both a 2G and 5G connection; the 5G channel is faster while covering shorter distances.

Router or modem troubles

Your router and modem must work together to manage your network and deliver your Wi-Fi signal. If your equipment is too old or is malfunctioning, your connection could suffer.

If you have a 2-in-1 router/modem device, you’ll only have to worry about maintenance for one piece of equipment, but if you have two separate devices, pay attention to them both.

Tips for troubleshooting your equipment:

• Regular restarts – There’s a reason why your IT technician’s first suggestion is to restart your device. Your router is like a computer and rebooting can solve many short-term problems and give your device a chance to update
• Move your router – The closer your internet-connected devices are to your router, the better your connection. Place your equipment in a central location of your household, free of interference from other electronic devices and obstructing objects
• Change your password – A router already comes with default information, and this information is common knowledge with well-known models. Change your login credentials to something more difficult and random to prevent hackers from accessing your network
• Update hardware and software – As you add more internet-connected devices and users to your network, make sure your router has the capacity to keep up. If you’re having issues maintaining a steady Wi-Fi connection around the house despite extenders and positioning, it may be time for an upgrade

Malware and viruses

Run an antivirus program with auto-updates and scans so your system is constantly securing itself. Some internet service providers offer free antivirus software with a subscription to internet service. 

Protecting your devices against malware and viruses can prevent a decline in your computer’s performance and potential disruption to your internet connection.

Incompatible connection type

Each connection type transmits data differently and is better suited for a certain level of internet usage and type of activity. For example, fiber-optic and cable connections typically offer internet speeds that far exceed satellite and DSL connections.

Call now to see what provider options are available in your area. If you have access to cable or fiber internet service, consider switching providers. A better, faster and more reliable connection type could be an easy solution to faster internet.

Throttling

In some cases, your internet service provider may be responsible for a shift in your internet speeds, often known as speed throttling. 

“Throttling” refers to the practice of limiting bandwidth or slowing a connection during certain online activities or after a data cap has been reached. If you’ve been noticing a clear connection between activities like streaming, gaming and large file downloads and a decrease in internet speed, throttling may be to blame.Take our speed test today to see how much speed you’re receiving compared to initially advertised speeds. Remember to close out of high-bandwidth activities like online games and run your test during a time of day when external influences are least likely to interfere. Global internet usage is heaviest between 9 and 11 p.m.

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