Many people spend hours using the internet each day. Whether you're on the web for work, entertainment, or other obligations, your connection speed matters. At best, a spotty connection is a nuisance, and at worst, it's impossible to use the internet when the connection is too slow. This guide covers a few factors that impact your internet access speed. 

What Are Some Factors That Influence Your Internet Speeds?

1. Slow Internet Plan 

It is possible to encounter slow speeds even if you have excellent hardware and a great internet provider. This occurs when your plan doesn't offer enough bandwidth for your browsing needs. For instance, if multiple people in your home are trying to stream shows online or access the internet at the same time, you may not have a robust enough package for your household. 

2. Old Hardware 

In order to access the internet, you need a modem or a router. If your modem is old or outdated, it may not pick up the signal as well as a new model. The same principle applies to your personal devices. If you're trying to access the internet on an old computer, laptop, or phone, your connection may not be as solid as it could be with a newer device. 

3. Weak Wi-Fi Signals

The strength of your WiFi signal may vary depending on where you are in your home. If you are far away from the internet hardware in your house, the signal might be poor or intermittent. You'll notice the signal gets stronger as you get closer to the router. 

How Can You Improve Your Speeds?

There are several steps you can take to test and improve your internet speeds. First, run an internet speed test online to determine the rate at which your connection is moving. Then, try to ease the load on your devices by closing out windows or tabs that you aren't using, deleting old applications, and updating software. 

If your devices are still struggling after this step, you may need to consider upgrading your devices to get optimal speeds. You can also try moving closer to the router to see if that helps your signal. 

Finally, if you've tried taking simple steps to fix your connection with no luck, speak with your internet access provider to see what options exist for upgrading. You may benefit from getting a faster plan, especially if you have a large household with many internet users.

If you need help with your internet speeds, contact Volcano Communications Group. This Pine Grove, CA, internet service provider offers high-speed connections to commercial and residential customers in many areas of Amador and Calaveras County. They also offer internet troubleshooting services. Read more about what they can do for you online or schedule an appointment by calling 1-209-296-7502.