Slow broadband is not always a provider problem. Weak Wi-Fi, where your router is placed, your home’s wiring, and peak-time demand can all drag your speeds down.
If you’re stuck staring at the loading wheel while trying to watch Netflix or YouTube, BT Broadband says there are a few quick checks worth trying. The firm is urging anyone with slow speeds - whether they’re a BT customer or not - to make some simple tweaks that could help fix the problem.
Why speeds dip at peak times
BT says it invests heavily in its network to keep speeds fast, even at busy times. But it warns performance can still dip when lots of people are online - comparing it to rush-hour traffic.
The experts explain: "Like rush‑hour traffic, speeds can vary depending on how many people are online. During peak times, usually 8pm to 10pm, you may notice slightly slower speeds."
Disconnect unused devices
BT also urges people to simply disconnect, as heavy use across multiple devices can noticeably slow your speeds. It explains: "Your broadband speed is shared between all connected devices. If 4 devices are online at the same time, each one will get roughly a quarter of the available speed."
Activities like streaming live TV, YouTube or Netflix, and online gaming use more bandwidth. If someone in your household is doing this, it can affect speeds for everyone else. To boost speeds, it suggests: "If you've connected devices you no longer use, disconnecting them can help."
Other quick fixes to try
Other ways BT recommends you can boost your broadband speed include:
- Check for viruses and malware, which can slow down your devices and your broadband.
- A sluggish computer can make broadband seem worse than it is. That can be down to too many programs running at once, not enough memory, browser add‑ons, or lots of apps set to start automatically.
- Restart your devices now and again. Try turning Wi‑Fi off or switching to aeroplane mode for a few seconds - then turning it back on to refresh the connection.
- Keep your hub switched on and connected at all times. BT says this helps deliver the fastest, most stable service and ensures the hub stays up to date. The company warns that switching the hub off regularly can make the line appear unstable, which may lead to speeds being reduced to keep the connection reliable.
- If your Wi‑Fi feels slow, the device you’re using might be the problem. Newer phones, tablets and laptops can handle much faster wireless speeds - for example, a smartphone from 2013 may only manage around half the Wi‑Fi speed of a modern model.
- Place your hub as close as possible to where you use the internet most. BT says walls, doors and even furniture can weaken the Wi‑Fi signal and reduce speeds.
Should you switch providers or haggle?
It’s worth comparing providers to see what offers are out there and whether a different package would suit you better. Just bear in mind that leaving part-way through a contract can mean paying an early exit charge. That said, if your connection is consistently poor and you’ve already worked through fixes with your provider, moving elsewhere may be the best option.
Before making any changes, it’s also worth trying to haggle. Money Saving Expert (MSE), founded by Martin Lewis, encourages customers to negotiate with their provider to cut their bills and secure a better deal. MSE says that if you’re tired of price hikes or your bill is about to shoot up when a promotional deal ends, one of the easiest ways to save money is simply to negotiate. Because most people already have a provider, firms are often keen to retain existing customers.
In short, it advises broadband customers, whichever provider they’re with, to call up and ask for a better deal. Mention that you’ve spotted cheaper offers elsewhere, and if you don’t get anywhere, say you’re considering leaving. You’ll often be put through to a retention team that can offer bigger discounts.
MSE says use the phrases that pay. You may find the first offer is only a small discount. If you’re not happy with the price, try phrases such as:
- 'I need to think about it...'
- 'It's still a lot of money...'
- '(BT/Sky/Virgin Media) can do it for less...'
- 'I think my other half/housemate/horse will go bonkers if I agree to pay that...'
- 'I've worked out my budget, and my absolute max is £[insert amount here] a month...'
- 'Is that the very best you can do?'
For tips and tricks on how to haggle, visit the MSE blog.
