first: rule out your internet connection
Before assuming it’s WiFi, test on a wired connection. Connect a laptop or desktop directly to your router via ethernet and run a speed test at fast.com.
- Wired speed is normal, WiFi is slow — the problem is your WiFi, not your internet connection. Continue below.
- Wired speed is also slow — see slow speeds instead.
- No connection at all on wired — see no internet connection.
common WiFi fixes
restart your router
Unplug it from the wall, wait 30 seconds, plug it back in. Wait 2 minutes. This fixes most temporary WiFi issues.
move closer to the router
WiFi signal weakens with distance and through walls. Test your device in the same room as the router. If speeds improve significantly, you have a coverage issue, not a connection issue.
check for interference
Other devices on the 2.4 GHz band (microwaves, baby monitors, neighbouring WiFi networks) can cause interference. Switch your device to the 5 GHz band if your router supports it — it’s faster and less congested. See set up your WiFi for how to separate your bands.
check how many devices are connected
If other devices are running large downloads, backups (iCloud, Google Photos, OneDrive), or video calls, they’ll consume bandwidth and slow down everything else. Check what’s running in the background.
check your router’s WiFi channel
In your router’s admin panel, look for the WiFi channel setting. Set it to Auto or try a specific channel — for 2.4 GHz, channels 1, 6, or 11 are preferred. Many routers have an auto channel selection that does this well.
dead zones and weak signal areas
If certain rooms have consistently poor WiFi:
- Powerline adapters — plug one into a power point near your router and another in the problem area. Creates a wired connection through your home’s electrical wiring.
- WiFi extender — extends your existing network, though can reduce speeds if poorly placed. Usually better than nothing.
- Mesh WiFi system — the proper solution for large homes. Multiple nodes create a single seamless network. Eero, TP-Link Deco, and Netgear Orbi are common options.
old router bottlenecking your plan
Routers have a maximum throughput. An older AC1200 router maxes out at ~300 Mbps on 5 GHz under real conditions — if you’re on Home Fast (500 Mbps) or above, your router is the bottleneck.
Check your router model and its rated 5 GHz speeds. For plans above 250 Mbps, look for a router with WiFi 5 (AC) at AC1750 or above, or ideally WiFi 6 (AX).
still having issues?
Open in-app chat with as much detail as you can: which device, which room, what speeds you’re seeing, and what you’ve already tried.