- Go to http://www.speedtest.net and test your internet connection.
If you have Comcast/Xfinity or AT&T broadband you should get a speed of at least 25mbps.- On a laptop or desktop, visit www.speedtest.net
- On an iOS device, download Speedtest by Ookla
- On an Android device, download Speedtest by Ookla
- MOVE CLOSER
- Move closer to your modem and router and run the speed test again.
- Proximity to that equipment does make a difference
- Do you get the same speed results?
- If your speed is still slow, continue below. If the speed is improved significantly, move your workspace closer to your modem and router or look at purchasing a Wifi extender (https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-wifi-extenders,review-2225.html)
- If your speed is still slow, continue below. If the speed is improved significantly, move your workspace closer to your modem and router or look at purchasing a Wifi extender (https://www.tomsguide.com/us/best-wifi-extenders,review-2225.html)
- Move closer to your modem and router and run the speed test again.
- Restart the device
- If just one device is showing poor speed but other devices are fine, restart that one device.
- If necessary, have that device forget the wireless network and reconnect.
- After a restart, test the speed again on that device.
- RESTART THE MODEM AND ROUTER
- If 2 or more devices are showing poor speed, you can restart the modem and wifi router.
- Modem brings Internet to your home
- A modem is a small box that connects your devices to the internet using cables. There is typically a coaxial cable or phone line connecting the modem to your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
- Router brings Internet to your devices
- A router is a small box that sometimes has large antennas which sends the wireless signal throughout your house.
- Some ISPs provide a combined modem and router box (https://www.xfinity.com/hub/internet/modem-vs-router)
- Modem brings Internet to your home
- Restart both of these devices by unplugging them for 10 seconds and plugging them back in.
- Wait about 5 minutes after connecting them back to power for them to reconnect.
- After a restart, test the speed again on multiple devices.
- If 2 or more devices are showing poor speed, you can restart the modem and wifi router.
- What WiFi modem/router/access point are you using?
- If you’re using Xfinity/AT&T modem maybe you’re using an old model? Call them. Tell them that you’re a teacher and that internet speed is affecting distance learning for students. They will send you the newer and faster model of the Xfinity/AT&T modem, and maybe a tech person.
- If you’re using your own WiFi router but still experiencing slow speed try connecting directly to your router using an ethernet cable.
- WiFi router signal strength varies depending on the size/construction of your home. If you have multiple rooms consider a Mesh WiFi system.
- How many people in your family access the internet at the same time?
- If you have a 25 Mbps Xfinity plan, but 4 people in your family are on the internet at the same time consider upgrading your plan. Contact Xfinity/AT&T and re-negotiate your plan to get the best plan without paying more. They’re flexible now as they’re upgrading bandwidth.
The above tips apply for most Internet Providers not only Xfinity & AT&T.