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Troubleshooting Home WiFi/Internet

  1. 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. 
  2. 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?
  3. 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.
  4. 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)
    • 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.