Use this guide if your internet works but feels slower than usual on FTTC, FTTP, HFC or Fixed Wireless. It helps separate a Wi-Fi or device limit from a wider connection issue. It does not configure your router or determine the speed included in your plan.
1. Check for outages
Check for a published outage or planned work. Look for a notice that matches your area or service.
If one applies, wait for the stated update before changing settings. If there is no relevant notice, continue.
2. Run a repeatable speed test
Make a repeatable comparison. On one device, pause downloads, streaming and other heavy use.
Run the same reputable speed test a few times, noting the time, result and whether a VPN is in use. A result that varies with household activity may be affected by competing traffic; continue with a quieter test if needed.
3. Compare Wi-Fi with Ethernet
Compare Wi-Fi with Ethernet, if available. Test near the router over Wi-Fi, then use an Ethernet connection between the same device and router.
Do not change router settings. If Ethernet is consistently better, focus on the Wi-Fi comparison in Wi-Fi versus wired speed.
If both are slow, continue.
4. Test another device
Compare another device. Test a second device in the same place and connection type.
If only one device is slow, investigate that device. If several devices are slow on both wired and Wi-Fi connections, record that pattern as a possible access or service issue.
5. Compare times and conditions
Compare times and conditions. Note whether results change by time of day, weather (Fixed Wireless only), device distance, or household activity.
These are clues, not proof of a cause.
6. Record your results
Record the connection type, test time/results, device, wired or Wi-Fi, VPN state, outage notice and any pattern. Use the AI Chat for assistance if the issue remains, and share these results; do not include passwords or private account details.
Stop when the connection is performing normally for your needs. For wireless-only differences, see Wi-Fi versus wired speed.